Medical Marijuana Benefits in Maryland
Evidence supporting the use of medical marijuana in the treatment of epilepsy has led to increased interest in cannabis’ mental and cognitive benefits, especially when it comes to Alzheimer’s Disease.
In fact, researchers are in the early stages of evaluating medical marijuana as an alternative therapy for dementia.
While clinical studies are ongoing, here’s what is currently known about medical marijuana and its effect on Alzheimer’s.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia and accounts for approximately 60-80% of cases. The chronic neurodegenerative disease causes brain cell connections and the cells themselves to degenerate and die. This eventually interferes with a person’s ability to think, remember, and reason.
The neurological changes associated with Alzheimer’s are believed to be the result of abnormal plaque and protein build-up, which impedes neuron connectivity. What’s more, these issues can begin 10 years before a patient becomes symptomatic.
Current treatment protocols employ some form of cholinesterase inhibitor to manage Alzheimer’s disease and associated symptoms.
Studies Supporting Medical Marijuana and Its Effects on Alzheimer’s Disease
There have been several non-human participant studies on medical marijuana and its effects on Alzheimer’s.
When mice with Alzheimer’s were exposed to THC, they demonstrated improved memory performance and reduced neuronal loss.
Additionally, THC has been shown to help eliminate proteins that can contribute to Alzheimer’s in brain cells.
Another study’s findings confirmed that THC prevents amyloid plaque from accumulating.
Medical Marijuana as an Alternative Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, many are interested in the economic advantages of medical marijuana for Alzheimer’s treatment. While patients can pay upwards of $500 for a 30-day supply of traditional Alzheimer’s medication, a low dose edible or oral CBD product would be much more affordable.
What’s more, cannabis could also help patients avoid side effects that are common with cholinesterase inhibitors.
In light of these findings, larger-scale, human-based studies on medical marijuana and its effect on Alzheimer’s are on the horizon.
Learn More About the Therapeutic Effects of Medical Marijuana
If you would like additional information about the cognitive and mental benefits of medical marijuana maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
