Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis Oil for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: An-Open Label, Add-On, Pilot Study
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a potential treatment for Alzheimer‘s disease (AD).
OBJECTIVE:
To measure efficacy and safety of medical cannabis oil (MCO) containing THC as an add-on to pharmacotherapy, in relieving behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD).
METHODS:
Eleven AD patients were recruited to an open label, 4 weeks, prospective trial.
RESULTS:
Ten patients completed the trial. Significant reduction in CGI severity score (6.5 to 5.7; p < 0.01) and NPI score were recorded (44.4 to 12.8; p < 0.01). NPI domains of significant decrease were: Delusions, agitation/aggression, irritability, apathy, sleep and caregiver distress.
CONCLUSION:
Adding MCO to AD patients’ pharmacotherapy is safe and a promising treatment option.
KEYWORDS:
Alzheimer’s disease; behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia; cannabis; tetrahydrocannabinol
PMID: 26757043 DOI: 10.3233/JAD-150915
Source:Pubmed
Shelef A1, Barak Y1, Berger U2, Paleacu D1, Tadger S1, Plopsky I1, Baruch Y1.