Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes. As of 2025, approximately 6.2 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, with 80% being 75 or older. This condition leads to the degeneration and death of brain cells, resulting in diminished thinking, behavioral, and social abilities, ultimately impairing an individual’s capacity for independent functioning.​

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

The exact causes of Alzheimer’s remain incompletely understood, but it is widely believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that affect the brain over time. Central to its pathology is the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles, which disrupt neuronal communication and lead to cell death. Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are also critical elements in Alzheimer’s progression, triggering immune responses that exacerbate neuronal damage.​PubMed Central

The Role of CBD in Alzheimer’s Disease

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic properties, particularly its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. Research suggests that CBD may influence Alzheimer’s disease through several mechanisms:​

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

CBD has demonstrated the ability to reduce oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, both of which are implicated in Alzheimer’s pathology. CBD may help protect neurons from damage and slow disease progression by mitigating these factors. ​

Promotion of Neurogenesis

Emerging evidence indicates that CBD may stimulate neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, particularly in the hippocampus—a brain region essential for memory and learning that is adversely affected in Alzheimer’s disease. ​

Reduction of Beta-Amyloid Plaques

Preclinical studies have shown that CBD can reduce the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease, thereby potentially preserving cognitive function. ​jagwire.augusta.edu

Clinical Evidence and Ongoing Research

Several studies have explored the effects of CBD on Alzheimer’s disease:​

• Preclinical Studies: Research involving animal models has demonstrated that CBD administration can lead to reduced beta-amyloid plaque accumulation, decreased neuroinflammation, and improved cognitive function. ​
• Clinical Trials: Ongoing clinical trials are investigating the efficacy of CBD in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, McLean Hospital is conducting an 8-week trial to assess the impact of a high-CBD product on anxiety and agitation in patients with MCI or Alzheimer’s dementia. ​rally.massgeneralbrigham.org
• Synthetic Cannabinoids: A recent study led by Johns Hopkins University and Tufts University found that dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC, reduced agitation in Alzheimer’s patients by an average of 30%, offering a potential alternative to traditional antipsychotic medications. ​Johns Hopkins Medicine

Safety and Considerations

While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some potential side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite. It is crucial for individuals considering CBD for Alzheimer’s disease to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure safe and appropriate use, especially considering possible interactions with other medications.​

Resources and Studies

For further information on CBD and its potential role in treating Alzheimer’s disease, consider the following resources:

The Main Therapeutic Applications of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Its Effects on Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease: This comprehensive review discusses CBD’s pharmacodynamics and its potential benefits in aging and Alzheimer’s disease. ​PubMed Central

CBD May Help Prevent and Alleviate Alzheimer’s Disease, Study Finds: An article highlighting recent findings on CBD’s potential in preventing and alleviating Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. ​Forbes

A Review on Studies of Marijuana for Alzheimer’s Disease: This review discusses research trends on cannabis use for Alzheimer’s treatment, suggesting that CBD components might be useful in treating and preventing the disease. ​PubMed Central

CBD Reduces Plaque, Improves Cognition in Model of Familial Alzheimer’s: An article detailing a study where CBD treatment increased levels of proteins crucial for plaque removal in the brain, leading to improved cognition in a mouse model of early-onset Alzheimer’s. ​Forbes+1jagwire.augusta.edu+1

Clinical Trial Shows Synthetic Cannabis Reduces Agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease: A study demonstrated that dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC, reduced agitation in Alzheimer’s patients without adverse effects like delirium or seizures. ​Johns Hopkins Medicine

While preliminary research is promising, more extensive clinical trials are necessary to fully understand CBD’s efficacy and safety in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals should consult healthcare providers before starting any new treatment regimen.​

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures

https://www.dementiacarecentral.com/aboutdementia/treating/cbd

https://news.medicalmarijuanainc.com/evidence-indicates-cbd-beneficial-alzheimers-disease-review-finds/

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/treatments/alternative-therapies/cannabis-and-dementia