Medical cannabis may help manage symptoms associated with a variety of neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Alzheimer’s disease currently has no known cure and is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States.
Although medical cannabis is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, some research suggests it may help reduce certain symptoms and improve quality of life for some patients.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that gradually destroys memory and other important mental functions. It is the most common form of dementia. As nerve cells in the brain become damaged and die, patients experience increasing memory loss, confusion, and difficulty performing everyday activities.
Common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Increased anxiety and aggression
- Repeating questions
- Misplacing or losing belongings
- Wandering or becoming lost
- Changes in mood or personality
- Poor judgment
Alzheimer’s Disease and Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Clinical research has also reported improvements in certain behavioral symptoms experienced by people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
A 2017 review suggested that medical cannabis may help address appetite loss, insomnia, and agitation in patients with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Another clinical study found that dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC, reduced nighttime motor activity in patients with dementia.
Additionally, a randomized, double-blind crossover clinical trial evaluating nabilone (a synthetic cannabinoid) suggested it may help reduce agitation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Symptoms that medical marijuana may help manage include:
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
- Neuroinflammation
- Neurodegeneration
- Pain
- Insomnia
- Agitation and behavioral changes
How Do I Get a Medical Cannabis Prescription?
Alzheimer’s disease is a qualifying condition for medical cannabis in Texas. Click the button below to find a qualified physician and begin the prescription process.
