Dementia, a debilitating condition that affects millions worldwide, has long posed significant challenges in both diagnosis and treatment. Traditional therapeutic approaches have only partially managed symptoms and slowed progression. However, recent research has highlighted a promising new avenue: the potential role of cannabinoids in dementia treatment. Cannabinoids, compounds found in the cannabis plant, have shown remarkable therapeutic properties that could offer a new frontier in dementia care.
Preliminary studies and preclinical data have suggested cannabinoids could have neuroprotective properties that might benefit conditions like dementia. A handful of clinical trials have ventured into evaluating the therapeutic potential of THC-based compounds like dronabinol, nabilone, and CBD for Alzheimer's patients. These trials play a crucial role in scientifically determining the efficacy and safety of these compounds relative to others the plant may offer, such as CBGa.
An interesting revelation from these studies is the effectiveness of nabilone, which is already an FDA-approved drug for treating chemotherapy-related nausea. In the context of Alzheimer's, nabilone demonstrated efficacy in curbing symptoms such as agitation and aggression. This work opens avenues for repurposing existing drugs for new therapeutic applications, including both endocannabinoids and those from the plant.
The Alzheimer Society Research Program has funded research on how endocannabinoids affect mood and anxiety in dementia. The secret of success behind many protocols that utilize plant-based therapies or drugs modeled after them genuinely rests in how the Endocannabinoid System functions, balances, and tones.
The Center for Alzheimer's Research did an extensive study in 2021, "Potential and Limits of Cannabinoids in Alzheimer's Disease Therapy," which primarily went over THC and CBD and synthetics that work like them. One major 'miss' in all of the research regarding dementia-related disease that I've reviewed is the failure to examine the Mother Major Cannabinoid, as I call her, CBGa.
Neuroprotective Effects: Some studies on cannabinoids have shown potential neuroprotective effects. These effects could be beneficial in conditions where brain cells are under stress or are degenerating, such as in various forms of dementia.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Inflammation in the brain plays a pivotal role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Some cannabinoids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which might help address this component of the disease.
CBGa-Specific Research: CBGa is less studied than other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. However, preliminary research has suggested that CBGa might have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. But it's worth noting that these findings are in the early stages, often from in-vitro studies or animal models.
Clinical Evidence: Large-scale clinical trials explicitly investigating cannabinoids, including CBGa, for treating or preventing dementia have been limited. Small studies and anecdotal reports suggest potential benefits, but robust clinical evidence is essential to establish safety, efficacy, and appropriate dosing.
Safety and Side Effects: It's important to remember that while some compounds offer therapeutic benefits, they could also have side effects. The safety profile of CBGa and other cannabinoids in long-term use for conditions like dementia is still under investigation.
Complexity of Dementia: Dementia encompasses a range of conditions, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common. The causes and progression mechanisms involve genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. While specific treatments can address some symptoms or aspects of the disease, a comprehensive solution still needs to be discovered.
It's essential to note that while there's interest in understanding the potential benefits of cannabinoids in Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, the research is still evolving, so there are no definitive conclusions about its therapeutic potential.
-Mike Robinson, Global Cannabis Educator and Creator of ECS Balance Control, The Researcher OG
References:
Kinney JW, Bemiller SM, Murtishaw AS, Leisgang AM, Salazar AM, Lamb BT. Inflammation as a central mechanism in Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement (N Y). 2018 Sep 6;4:575-590. doi: 10.1016/j.trci.2018.06.014. PMID: 30406177; PMCID: PMC6214864.
Suzuki, S., Fleig, A. & Penner, R. CBGA ameliorates inflammation and fibrosis in nephropathy. Sci Rep 13, 6341 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-33507-2
Whiting PF, Wolff RF, Deshpande S, et al. Cannabinoids for Medical Use: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA. 2015;313(24):2456–2473. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.6358
