"Is there any credible evidence that Cannabis can help or even stop the "progress" of early stage Alzheimer’s in sufferers who are still healthy otherwise and under the age of 70."
One recent study found THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, stimulates the removal of toxic plaque in the brain, a common feature of the disease. It was also discovered that THC blocks inflammation, which damages neurons in the brain. Dutch scientists found two studies showing THC is useful in treating the behavioral symptoms of dementia. Similarly, a very small 2016 study of 11 participants found THC helped decrease symptoms of delusions, agitation or aggression, irritability, apathy and sleep in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, there are still no effective therapies for stopping Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. There are three main goals of treatment and they aim to improve the quality of life of the person with the disease.
- Slowing the progression of the decline and treating symptoms with medications prescribed by their doctor.
- Managing the behavioural symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease by consulting with the staff from your local Alzheimer Society, social workers, nurses or support groups.
- Providing support for both the person with the disease and their family caregiver.
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