January marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the growing impact of dementia on individuals and families across Canada. The numbers are frankly alarming – over 700,000 Canadians are currently living with this condition, and projections suggest that the number could double by 2050.
It’s not just the memory loss; for many with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s, agitation and aggression become a daily struggle, deeply affecting both the individuals themselves and those who care for them.
As a pharmacist, I’ve witnessed these struggles firsthand and seen the frustration when conventional treatments just don’t seem to make enough of a difference. It’s in this context that the potential role of cannabis has begun to spark interest and raise important questions.
A glimmer of hope: what the research suggests
The connection between cannabinoids and dementia is still a developing area of research, but some promising findings have emerged. As a pharmacist, I find it particularly intriguing to see studies exploring cannabinoids’ potential to address challenging symptoms like agitation and aggression in Alzheimer’s patients.
For example, a 2018 study conducted at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre demonstrated that nabilone, a synthetic cannabinoid, significantly reduced agitation in patients, with a 47% decrease compared to a 23% reduction in the placebo group. A more recent 2024 study from Johns Hopkins and Tufts Universities found that dronabinol, another synthetic cannabinoid, showed similar benefits in reducing agitation, with fewer side effects than traditional antipsychotics.
While these early studies give a glimmer of hope, they also emphasize the need for cautious, informed application of cannabinoids in dementia care, given the complexity of their effects on the brain.
The importance of careful guidance
Cannabinoids interact with a brain affected by Alzheimer’s in unique and sometimes unpredictable ways. While many people turn to cannabis for its calming properties, dementia patients may experience adverse effects, such as heightened confusion or excess sedation. As a pharmacist, I’ve seen firsthand how these complexities require thoughtful consideration and a tailored approach.
This is why I advocate for pharmacist-led guidance when exploring the use of cannabis. With our clinical training and understanding of both conventional and alternative therapies, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to ensure cannabis is used safely, effectively, and in alignment with the specific needs of each patient. At Apothecare, my co-founder Ajay Chahal, a fellow University of Toronto-trained pharmacist, and I are dedicated to closing the gap between traditional and alternative medicine.
As pharmacists, we understand the complexities of incorporating cannabis into patient care, and we’re passionate about empowering patients and caregivers to make informed decisions. Our approach is rooted in evidence-based cannabis education, ensuring that any use of cannabis is accompanied by close monitoring and a plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We see ourselves as trusted navigators, helping patients and their families understand the intricacies of cannabis therapy, and prioritizing safety and efficacy every step of the way.
Looking ahead: the future of research
The conversation around cannabis for wellness purposes is constantly evolving, and Canada is playing a key role in this ongoing research. While the initial findings on cannabinoids and their potential to improve quality of life for dementia patients are preliminary, it’s important to remember that more research is needed. We need larger-scale studies to really establish best practices and robust safety guidelines. That said, even the limited research done so far offers some encouragement.
For anyone considering cannabis as a potential treatment option, I urge you to have a thorough conversation with your healthcare provider. It’s about making informed decisions, weighing the potential benefits against the risks, and ensuring proper oversight. With the right approach – grounded in education, careful monitoring, and personalized care – cannabinoids could potentially become a valuable tool in our efforts to provide better care and a better quality of life for those living with this challenging condition.
About the Author:
Anushya Vijayaraghevan is a licensed pharmacist and co-founder of Apothecare. She holds a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Toronto and is deeply committed to integrating evidence-based cannabis use into patient care.
