Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia
Cannabis and Alzheimer’s Disease: What the Research Shows
Medical cannabis is being investigated for its potential role in managing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, including agitation, sleep disturbances, and cognitive decline. This page highlights current studies exploring how cannabinoids like THC and CBD may offer neuroprotective benefits and improve quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects memory, behavior, and thinking. As the disease advances, patients may experience increased anxiety, irritability, and difficulty sleeping — all of which can significantly impact both the individual and their caregivers. While there is no cure, researchers are exploring new ways to support brain health and reduce symptom burden.
Cannabinoids, the active compounds in the cannabis plant, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system — a regulatory network involved in processes such as mood, memory, inflammation, and sleep. Early research suggests that certain cannabinoids may help reduce inflammation in the brain, support better sleep, and promote relaxation in patients with dementia-related agitation or aggression.
CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and improving sleep without the intoxicating effects of THC. Low-dose THC, when used under medical supervision, may also support appetite and reduce restlessness. Some studies suggest that these compounds may even have neuroprotective properties that could help slow cognitive decline, though more research is needed.
At Greenleaf Medical Clinic, our physicians provide personalized treatment plans for patients seeking additional support for Alzheimer’s symptoms. Each plan is tailored to your health history, medications, and goals — ensuring that safety and evidence-based care remain top priorities.
If you or a loved one is exploring alternative options for managing Alzheimer’s symptoms, medical cannabis may be worth considering. While it is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, it may offer symptom relief and improve overall quality of life when used under proper medical guidance. Many patients and caregivers report improvements in sleep, mood, and overall comfort, which can make day-to-day care more manageable and less stressful. It’s important to note that medical cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The effects of cannabinoids can vary depending on dosage, formulation, and individual health factors. That’s why professional support is essential. At Greenleaf, we’re committed to providing compassionate, informed care for patients with complex conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Our team works closely with patients, caregivers, and family physicians to ensure a safe and seamless treatment experience.
For those interested in exploring the science behind cannabis and Alzheimer’s care, the following studies and reviews highlight emerging evidence on how cannabinoids may impact cognitive function, mood, sleep, and neuroinflammation. While more large-scale research is needed, these findings offer valuable insight into the potential therapeutic role of medical cannabis in supporting patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Cannabinoids remove plaque-forming Alzheimer’s proteins from brain cells Science Daily (2016)
Emerging Promise of Cannabinoids for the Management of Pain and Associated Neuropathological Alterations in Alzheimer’s Disease Frontiers in Pharmacology (2020)
Attitudes, beliefs, and changing trends of cannabidiol (CBD) oil use among caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2021)
Understanding the Modulatory Effects of Cannabidiol on Alzheimer’s Disease MDPI (2021)
Therapeutic properties of multi-cannabinoid treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s disease Frontiers in Neuroscience (2022)
Oral THC: CBD cannabis extract in main symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease: agitation and weight loss Clinical Therapeutics (2023)
Dementia
Cannabinoids for the Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry (2019)
Cannabinoids in the management of frontotemporal dementia: a case series Future Medicine (2020)
Effects of rich cannabidiol oil on behavioral disturbances in patients with dementia: A placebo controlled randomized clinical trial Frontiers in Medicine (2022)
Cannabinoids for behavioral symptoms in severe dementia: Safety and feasibility in a long-term pilot observational study in nineteen patients Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience (2022)
Clinical Trial Shows Synthetic Cannabis Reduces Agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease Johns Hopkins Medicine (2024)
Preclinical Data Finds “Compelling” Evidence That CBD Offers a “Comprehensive Treatment Approach” to Alzheimer’s Disease PubMed (2025)
