Citation

Shelef A, Barak Y, Berger U, Paleacu D, Tadger S, Plopsky I, Baruch Y. J. Alzheimers Dis. 2016; 51(1): 15-19.

Affiliation

Abarbanel Mental Health Center, Bat-Yam, Israel and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, IOS Press)

DOI

10.3233/JAD-150915

PMID

26757043

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, and sleep and caregiver distress.

CONCLUSION: Adding MCO to AD patients' pharmacotherapy is safe and a promising treatment option.

Language: en