Alzheimer’s and Medical Marijuana

Alzheimer’s and Medical Marijuana
Alzheimer’s and Medical Marijuana

Medical cannabis may help a variety of neurological conditions including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s Disease (PD) among many others. AD has no known cure and is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States.

Medical cannabis may reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients. Continue reading to find out how medical marijuana may help with AD symptoms.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s Disease is classified as a progressive brain disease that gradually destroys memory and important mental functions. It is the most common form of dementia. The brain’s nerve cells begin to degenerate and die which causes the common symptoms of memory loss and confusion. As the disease progresses, patients will lose the ability to perform simple activities of daily living. 

Alzheimer’s symptoms include:

  • Memory loss
  • Confusion
  • Increased anxiety and/or aggression
  • Repeating questions
  • Losing or misplacing items
  • Wandering and getting lost
  • changes in mood or personality
  • Poor judgment

Alzheimer’s Disease and Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana can help produce anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neurogenic effects in patients. Clinical studies have also reported positive behavioral effects in patients with Alzheimer’s.

Several studies have found that medical cannabis relieves the adverse effects of neurological conditions. One 2017 review found medical cannabis may help late-stage Alzheimer’s patients with appetite loss, insomnia, and agitation. In another study, dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC, reduced nocturnal motor activity in patients with dementia. In addition, a randomized double-blind crossover trial that used nabilone, a man-made version of THC, found that it may be an effective treatment for agitation in AD patients.

AD and Dementia Symptoms Medical Marijuana Can Relieve:

  • Appetite loss and weight loss
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Memory loss
  • Neuroinflammation
  • Neurodegeneration
  • Pain
  • Insomnia
  • Agitation and behavioral changes

How do I get a medical marijuana prescription?

AD is a qualifying condition for medical cannabis in Texas. TOCC has partnered with certified physicians throughout the state to provide you with an opportunity to quickly find out if you qualify for medical marijuana at no cost. If you do have an eligible condition for medical marijuana, you will be able to schedule an appointment with a physician to receive your medical marijuana prescription.

We serve the entire state of Texas. From the Panhandle to the Valley, from Big Bend to the Gulf Coast, we’ve got you covered. The quicker you get approved, the sooner you get a prescription, the faster you feel relief. To find out if you qualify for medical marijuana, click the button below.