A clinical trial has found that a cannabis-based treatment significantly reduces agitation in patients with late-stage dementia, with nearly 84 per cent showing improvement within two weeks. The findings, presented at the 2026 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, suggest a potential new approach for managing a common and challenging symptom of cognitive decline.
The Phase 2 LiBBY trial involved 120 adults with dementia who exhibited clinically significant agitation. Participants received an oral formulation containing 2 milligrams of THC and 100 milligrams of CBD twice daily. After 12 weeks, nearly 90 per cent of those treated demonstrated overall improvements in agitation, compared to just 23 per cent in the placebo group.
How the cannabis dementia treatment works
Agitation, which affects more than half of dementia patients, often manifests as emotional distress, excessive movement, or verbal and physical tension. Current prescription medications, including benzodiazepines and antipsychotics, frequently fall short and carry substantial risks. The study’s lead investigator, Jacobo Mintzer, noted that the results provide evidence for a new and effective treatment option for end-of-life dementia care.
Broader implications for dementia research
The trial also demonstrated that individuals with late-stage dementia can participate in clinical research, expanding opportunities for future studies. Elizabeth Edgerly, vice president of the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasised the importance of prioritising care and research for those in advanced stages of the disease, given that over 7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s—a figure projected to nearly double by 2060.
While the findings are promising, research on cannabis and aging brains remains mixed. Some studies suggest THC may impair learning and memory, though the mechanisms are unclear. Others indicate potential cognitive benefits, including neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, particularly when combined with other medications.
