Dementia is a progressive disorder that can drastically impair cognitive functioning, resulting in significant changes to a person’s everyday life. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this debilitating condition, and the available treatments have limited effectiveness. However, recent research is exploring the potential of using CBD oil as a treatment for dementia, and this article will explore the findings of such research. We will look at how CBD oil could be used to treat dementia, and the potential benefits of this approach.
Are there any potential side effects associated with using CBD oil for dementia?
Yes, there are potential side effects associated with using CBD oil for dementia. These side effects can include changes in appetite, fatigue, diarrhea, dry mouth, and changes in mood. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD oil for dementia, as it may interact with other medications and increase the risk of side effects.
What evidence is there that CBD oil can help with dementia symptoms?
There is limited clinical evidence that CBD oil can help to improve dementia symptoms. A small study conducted in 2018 found that CBD oil could help to improve the symptoms of aggression, sleep disturbances, and anxiety in people with dementia. Other studies have also suggested that CBD oil may be beneficial for people with dementia, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Is CBD oil currently approved for use in treating dementia?
No, CBD oil is not currently approved for use in treating dementia. However, research is being conducted to study the possible effects of CBD oil in treating dementia. Some preliminary studies suggest that CBD oil may have some potential for treating dementia symptoms, but more research is needed.
Does CBD oil interact with any medications commonly prescribed for dementia?
Yes, CBD oil can interact with medications commonly prescribed for dementia. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking CBD oil to make sure it does not interfere with any current prescriptions. Additionally, it is important to monitor for any adverse side effects or interactions when taking CBD oil along with other medications.
How is CBD oil typically administered to dementia patients?
CBD oil is typically administered to dementia patients in various ways, depending on the individual’s preference and the severity of their condition. Common administration methods include oral ingestion, topical application, and vapor inhalation. In addition, some caregivers may opt to administer CBD oil in food or drinks, or to make it into a suppository.
Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, has been praised in recent years for being something close to a miracle elixir. Got a headache? Feeling anxious or stressed out? Yep, CBD has been reported to be good for that, too. Cancer symptoms, seizures, and even acne may be relieved with this natural remedy, some scientists say. And, while studies are small and inconclusive at this point, research does suggest that CBD may also help treat the 5 million people in the U. Sound far-fetched? Yet despite the prevalence of such upsetting symptomswhich can include sensory hallucinations and delusionary thinkingtraditionally there has been no good way to treat BPSD. Ashwin Kotwal, M. Kotwal says. Because of this, antipsychotics can cause a whole host of undesirable side effects, including blunted emotional responses, sedation, drowsiness, and confusion. Antipsychotics have also been shown to increase mortality in dementia patients. None of this news to the families of dementia patients. Which is the reason why some people are looking to alternative treatments like CBD. CBD, a compound found in the cannabis plant, theoretically works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, a system in the human body that regulates cognition, pain sensation, appetite, memory, sleep, immune function, and mood. Research suggests that the endocannabinoid system also plays a role in psychosis. So, if a compound can alter the signals sent by the endocannabinoid system, maybe it can alter the course of psychosis. Blake Pearson, M. The problem is that products that contain THC are not as widely available and are still federally illegal in the U. Pearson says. The thing that most experts are concerned about is how cannabinoids might interact with other drugs, based on what we know about how our bodies metabolize the chemical compounds. And anecdotally, he treats hundreds of patients for this exact problem, and sees so many of them benefitting. When Karen Van Dyke learned about the potential for CBD to help with dementia-related psychosis, she talked with a doctor about how it might help her aunt. Her dementia had progressed, and she was increasingly anxious and experiencing sundowners, a word used to describe the agitation, confusion, and aggression that can hit people with dementia in the afternoon and evening. So, she brought her aunt to see a nurse who specializes in cannabis medicine. Her confusion subsided substantiallyshe no longer frantically asked for her purse, or for her husband who had passed 30 years prior, and was able to calmly hold a conversation. Her aunt was when she started taking the tinctures and lived for just a few more years, but Van Dyke says she would have started her on it much sooner if she knew how well it would work. The only side effect she noticed was that her aunt seemed to be sleeping a little more than normal, so her nurse suggested reducing the dosage a bit. Which did the trick. After seeing how cannabinoids helped her aunt, she now tells all of her clients to ask their doctors about them as a treatment option. She says there may be barriers if your loved one is in a large care facility, but some smaller homes may be OK with it. Her aunt was living at home, so it made things easier. Drug interactions can be really serious, and patients with dementia tend to be on multiple medications. The tricky thing is that there are not a lot of physicians out there who feel comfortable recommending and overseeing cannabinoid medicineespecially for patients with dementia. Being board-certified in the U. If a caregiver is looking for options to treat dementia with psychosis, the first step is to speak with their physician and ask about using cannabinoids, Dr. It may fall on deaf ears. You can also check if your state has a list of medical cannabis doctors this will vary depending on the laws in your state. Amy is a freelance journalist and certified personal trainer. She covers a wide range of health topics, including fitness, health conditions, mental health, sexual and reproductive health, nutrition, and more. Her work has more. What can we help you find? Dementia Types. Cannabidiol products are touted for healing everything from anxiety to pain. But can they help with hallucinations and delusions, too? March 11, Medical Reviewer. On this page. CBD as an Alternative Treatment. First Steps. What to Read Next. Start Survey.
Family members of patients with dementia say CBD oil, short for Cannabidiol and derived from the cannabis plant, can make a world of difference. I was sleeping two hours a day. Some seniors some with dementia will be assessed before and after starting medically prescribed CBD oil for pain, anxiety, insomnia and the often-disruptive behaviours of dementia. Preliminary data could be available in about six months. We have different genetics. Reddit Share. As her caregiver, Tripp says the CBD therapy has been a godsend.