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Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis Oil for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia: An-Open Label, Add-On, Pilot Study

  • Assaf Shelef
  • , Yoram Barak
  • , Uri Berger
  • , Diana Paleacu
  • , Shelly Tadger
  • , Igor Plopsky
  • , Yehuda Baruch

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)15-19
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Alzheimer's Disease
Volume51
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 27 2016
Externally publishedYes

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
    SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

Keywords

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia
  • cannabis
  • tetrahydrocannabinol

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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