A systematic review published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology finds that cannabinoids may help manage the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers from the University of Padua School of Medicine, Padova University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, and Stockholm University reviewed nearly 1,800 studies, and based on strict inclusion criteria narrowed the analysis to 10 that included 278 participants. The findings indicated that medical cannabinoids were associated with reduced agitation, aggression, and nocturnal disturbances.
The review also highlighted possible mechanisms of benefit, including enhanced serotonin signaling, neuroprotection, reduced neuroinflammation, improved circadian rhythms, and modulation of motor activity. These effects translated into better patient outcomes, such as improved functional abilities, along with increased caregiver satisfaction.
Importantly, the review reported good tolerability and safety across the included studies. However, the researchers noted that more high-quality clinical trials are necessary to confirm these benefits and determine best practices for dosing and administration.
Overall, the study underscores the growing interest in cannabinoids as a therapeutic option for dementia care, offering a potentially safer alternative to traditional medications often used to manage BPSD.
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