Managing Dementia Agitation with Cannabis

November 12, 2025

About author

Clark Harrison

Medical cannabis is showing promise for addressing agitation in dementia patients, which affects up to 40% of individuals with the condition. Agitation – manifested as restlessness, shouting, or aggression – places immense strain on both patients and caregivers. Conventional medications like antipsychotics often come with severe risks, including sedation and increased mortality, making cannabis a safer alternative for some.

Key Points:

How it works: Cannabis interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system to regulate mood, improve sleep, and reduce agitation. Synthetic THC (like dronabinol) has shown a 30% reduction in agitation in studies.
Safety: Cannabis-based treatments are generally well-tolerated, with mild side effects like drowsiness or appetite changes.
Access in the UK: Medical cannabis is legal but tightly regulated. Specialist clinics like Elios Clinics assess eligibility and provide tailored treatment plans, with costs ranging from £150–£500 per month for prescriptions.

For caregivers, cannabis offers a potential solution when other treatments fail, helping to improve patient well-being while reducing caregiver stress. However, it’s crucial to consult specialists to ensure safe and effective use.

Clinical Trial Highlights Synthetic Cannabis DronabinolAlleviates Agitation in Alzheimer’s Patients

How Medical Cannabis Helps Manage Agitation

Medical cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in emotional regulation, to help reduce agitation in individuals with dementia.

Cannabis and Dementia: The Science

The endocannabinoid system is central to managing mood and behaviour, with cannabinoid receptors influencing emotional balance. This makes it a logical focus for addressing agitation in dementia patients.

Cannabinoids work through various pathways to ease agitation. They regulate neurotransmitters, improve sleep patterns, and address coexisting conditions, while also enhancing cerebral circulation. Together, these effects help soothe the nervous system and promote emotional stability.

Dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC, directly impacts cannabinoid receptors in the brain. It influences mood, appetite, and nausea, and has been shown to reduce physical symptoms like pacing and restlessness, as well as verbal symptoms such as yelling or outbursts.

Some cannabis strains are especially effective at encouraging sleep, which is crucial since disrupted sleep can worsen agitation in dementia patients.

These findings are backed by solid clinical evidence, providing a clearer picture of how medical cannabis can benefit those with dementia.

Research and Clinical Evidence

One study involving 75 Alzheimer’s patients who received 5 mg of dronabinol twice daily over three weeks found a 30% reduction in agitation. This was measured using tools like the Pittsburgh Agitation Scale (PAS) and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Agitation/Aggression subscale (NPI-C). Interestingly, dronabinol performed on par with, or even better than, the only other FDA-approved medication for agitation in this group.

Ongoing clinical trials continue to explore cannabis-based treatments for dementia. For instance, the LiBBY Study, supported by the National Institutes of Health and FDA, is investigating cannabis-derived therapies for advanced dementia patients with limited palliative care options. At the University of Maryland School of Medicine, researchers are examining THC/CBD therapies for end-of-life dementia-related agitation. Meanwhile, other studies are assessing CBD’s potential to reduce anxiety and agitation in mild cognitive impairment cases. These trials often use validated tools like the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory to measure progress over 12-week periods.

Safety and Side Effects

Synthetic THC formulations, such as dronabinol, generally have a favourable safety profile. Studies show that it is well-tolerated, with minimal side effects and no major drug interaction risks.

However, careful monitoring is crucial during treatment. Standardised scales like the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory help track changes in agitation and identify any emerging side effects. Patients on other medications – such as acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, antifungals, certain antibiotics, or antihypertensive drugs – should maintain stable doses for at least two weeks before starting cannabis to reduce the risk of interactions.

Caregivers play an important role in monitoring the treatment’s effectiveness. Clinical studies often gather input from both patients and caregivers, noting changes in symptoms and overall wellbeing.

Given its promising safety record and potential benefits, medical cannabis stands out as a treatment option worth considering for managing agitation in dementia patients.

Steps for Caregivers Considering Cannabis Treatment

Starting a medical cannabis treatment plan for a loved one requires careful preparation to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

Checking Eligibility for Medical Cannabis

Before beginning treatment, it’s important to confirm if your loved one is eligible. Typically, eligibility requires a formal dementia diagnosis accompanied by documented agitation or behavioural symptoms that haven’t improved with standard treatments. Additionally, there should be clear evidence that conventional therapies have been tried without sufficient success.

The process starts with a detailed review of the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and responses to previous treatments. A specialist doctor will assess these factors while also considering potential contraindications, such as a history of psychosis or hypersensitivity to cannabinoids. Key eligibility criteria include a confirmed dementia diagnosis with significant agitation or aggression, stable use of other medications, and a lack of improvement with standard treatments. On the other hand, conditions like primary psychotic disorders or severe delusions and hallucinations may rule out the use of medical cannabis.

Many clinics, such as Elios Clinics, offer free eligibility assessments to help caregivers determine whether medical cannabis might be a suitable option before committing to a full consultation.

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

Working with Healthcare Providers

Partnering with experienced healthcare professionals is crucial for navigating the medical cannabis treatment process. During the initial consultation, provide a clear and concise overview of your loved one’s medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments. This information helps healthcare providers recommend a specific cannabis strain and dosage tailored to the individual’s needs.

Elios Clinics offers video consultations with GMC-approved doctors who specialise in neurological conditions, including dementia-related agitation. These specialists work closely with other healthcare providers, such as GPs and neurologists, to ensure a coordinated approach to care. If treatment is approved, you’ll receive a personalised treatment plan with clear instructions on how to administer the medication and monitor its effects.

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment

Continuous monitoring is essential once treatment begins. Regular evaluations help track how well the treatment is working and identify any side effects. As a caregiver, you’ll play a key role in observing and documenting changes in agitation, aggression, and overall behaviour.

Standardised tools like the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory can be useful for measuring progress and spotting potential issues. Keeping a detailed log of behavioural changes, sleep patterns, and any side effects will be invaluable during follow-up consultations.

These follow-ups allow healthcare professionals to assess the patient’s progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan if needed. Side effects, such as drowsiness, confusion, or minor changes in appetite or mood, are generally mild but should still be closely monitored. In the rare event of serious side effects, it’s important to report them immediately so the treatment can be modified.

Elios Clinics provides ongoing support throughout the process. Their patient dashboard simplifies tracking prescriptions and appointments, making it easier to stay in touch with the healthcare team and monitor the treatment’s impact.

Getting Medical Cannabis in the UK

Accessing medical cannabis for dementia-related agitation in the UK requires a clear understanding of the legal framework and working with specialised clinics.

UK Legal Rules for Medical Cannabis

Since November 2018, medical cannabis has been legal in the UK, but it is subject to strict regulations. Cannabis-based products for medicinal use (CBPMs) are classified as Schedule 2 drugs by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). This means they can only be prescribed by specialist doctors registered with the General Medical Council (GMC).

For dementia agitation, medical cannabis is considered only when standard treatments have either failed or caused significant side effects. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) does not currently endorse medical cannabis as a primary treatment for dementia-related agitation. However, specialist clinics may evaluate its use in severe cases on an individual basis.

GPs are not authorised to prescribe medical cannabis, but patients can book appointments directly with specialist clinics without needing a referral. Before prescribing cannabis-based treatments, doctors must show that conventional medications have been tried and found unsuitable.

As of 2024, NHS prescriptions for medical cannabis remain rare due to restrictive guidelines. Most patients seeking this treatment turn to private clinics, which have broader but still regulated eligibility criteria.

Monthly costs for prescriptions typically range from £150 to £500, depending on the product and dosage. These costs are not covered by the NHS, making private care the primary route for accessing medical cannabis.

How Elios Clinics Can Help

Specialist clinics like Elios Clinics help patients navigate the complex regulations surrounding medical cannabis. Elios Clinics focuses on providing treatments for neurological conditions, including dementia-related agitation, and aims to make the process as straightforward as possible for patients and their families.

The journey begins with a free eligibility assessment to determine whether medical cannabis might be appropriate before committing to a full consultation. Initial consultations are priced at £50, offering a more affordable option compared to many private clinics.

During video consultations, GMC-approved doctors with expertise in medical cannabis therapy review the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and prior treatments. These specialists collaborate with GPs and other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated care. If medical cannabis is deemed suitable, patients receive a personalised treatment plan with detailed instructions for use and ongoing monitoring.

Elios Clinics also offers next-day medication delivery, providing convenience by delivering directly to the patient’s home, removing the need for pharmacy visits. Patients have access to a dedicated dashboard for managing prescriptions and appointments, ensuring seamless communication with their healthcare team.

Payment options include a £20 monthly subscription or a £60 quarterly plan. Follow-up consultations are priced at £50, and repeat prescriptions are available online around the clock. For those travelling with their medication, the clinic provides medical cannabis travel letters for £10.

Elios Clinics serves patients across various UK locations, including Birmingham, Derby, Leicester, London, Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield, and other areas in the Midlands. The clinic prioritises patient care, working with trusted suppliers to provide high-quality medications while adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards.

Cannabis vs Conventional Treatments for Dementia Agitation

When exploring treatment options for dementia-related agitation, families often face a challenging decision between cannabis-based therapies and more traditional medications. Conventional treatments, such as antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone and quetiapine) and benzodiazepines, work by altering brain neurotransmitter activity to manage symptoms. However, these medications come with substantial risks, including stroke, sedation, falls, delirium, and even premature death. These concerns highlight the need to consider alternative approaches.

Cannabis-based treatments, particularly those using synthetic THC like dronabinol, offer a different path. Clinical trials involving patients with Alzheimer’s-type dementia have shown that dronabinol can reduce agitation by an average of 30% compared to placebo. These improvements, measured using standardised scales, were statistically significant.

In terms of safety, cannabis-based treatments generally have a better profile. Side effects are typically mild, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or appetite changes. In contrast, conventional medications are associated with more severe risks, including stroke and delirium. Dronabinol has also been shown to be well tolerated, while antipsychotics carry warnings about their use in elderly patients due to their significant risks.

Another key distinction lies in how these treatments affect patient alertness. Cannabis-based options manage agitation without causing significant sedation or cognitive impairment, allowing patients to remain more alert and engaged in daily life. This can enhance their quality of life and foster better interactions with family members and caregivers.

Additionally, the use of cannabis-based treatments can alleviate caregiver stress. Effective agitation management without the heavy side effects of conventional medications often leads to reduced caregiver burnout and emotional strain.

Treatment Comparison Table: Cannabis vs Conventional Options

Aspect	Cannabis-Based Treatments	Conventional Medications
Effectiveness	Around a 30% reduction in agitation levels (comparable to conventional drugs)	Modest efficacy, with significant safety concerns
Safety Profile	Generally well tolerated with minimal adverse effects	Increased risks of stroke, sedation, falls, delirium, and premature death
Patient Alertness	Maintains alertness, enabling daily participation	Often causes significant sedation and cognitive impairment
Side Effects	Mild effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and appetite changes	Common side effects include sedation and confusion, increasing fall risk
Long-term Use	Promising short-term results; limited long-term data	Long-term use linked to increased mortality and other risks
Access in the UK	Available through specialist clinics like Elios Clinics (eligibility criteria apply)	Widely available via NHS prescriptions, though effectiveness may vary

This comparison underscores why cannabis-based treatments might be a better fit for patients who cannot tolerate conventional medications or have not responded to them. These therapies are particularly valuable in the later stages of dementia, where the focus often shifts to palliative care goals, prioritising comfort and quality of life over aggressive interventions.

Ultimately, choosing between these treatments depends on individual patient needs, potential drug interactions, and access to specialised care. Consulting with experienced clinics ensures proper eligibility assessments and ongoing monitoring, enabling families to make informed decisions. For those seeking improved quality of life with fewer side effects, cannabis-based treatments present a promising option for managing dementia agitation.

Conclusion: Better Care for Dementia Patients

Medical cannabis is emerging as a promising option for managing agitation in dementia patients, supported by both clinical evidence and caregiver experiences. Studies reveal that synthetic THC (dronabinol) can reduce agitation by 30% while keeping patients alert and causing minimal side effects. This is a crucial finding, as agitation is a primary reason many dementia patients end up in emergency departments or long-term care facilities.

Unlike traditional antipsychotic medications, which can lead to serious complications like delirium, seizures, or even premature death, cannabis-based treatments provide a safer alternative. For families who have endured the distress of seeing their loved ones heavily sedated or harmed by conventional drugs, medical cannabis offers a way to preserve dignity and enhance quality of life in the later stages of dementia.

Managing agitation effectively also has a ripple effect, easing the burden on caregivers. Unlike many traditional therapies, cannabis-based treatments not only improve patient well-being but also reduce caregiver stress, creating a more positive environment for everyone involved. However, these benefits rely heavily on proper medical supervision.

Specialist clinics, such as Elios Clinics, play a vital role by offering expert guidance through GMC-approved doctors. These professionals ensure that treatment plans are tailored to the individual, covering eligibility, dosing, and ongoing monitoring. This level of care is essential for achieving the best possible outcomes.

As research into cannabinoid therapies continues to grow, families now have access to an option that prioritises comfort, maintains cognitive engagement, and enhances overall quality of life. With the right medical oversight, patients can receive care that is both safe and effective, offering hope in a challenging journey.

FAQs

Is medical cannabis a safe and effective option for managing agitation in dementia patients?

Medical cannabis is being investigated as a possible way to help manage agitation and behavioural challenges in dementia patients. Traditional medications, like antipsychotics, are often used for these symptoms, but they can carry serious side effects. Early studies hint that medical cannabis might be a gentler option for some, potentially easing agitation with fewer unwanted effects.

If you’re considering this route, it’s crucial to seek advice from a qualified medical professional. Clinics such as Elios Clinics specialise in providing thorough assessments and personalised treatment plans, prioritising both safety and effectiveness for patients with neurological conditions, including dementia.

To qualify for medical cannabis treatment at Elios Clinics, patients need a confirmed diagnosis of a physical or mental health condition – such as dementia – that hasn’t responded to conventional treatments.

Each case is individually reviewed by GMC-approved doctors to ensure the treatment is safe and suitable for the patient’s unique circumstances. Caregivers are also encouraged to consult with the clinic to discuss personalised approaches for addressing symptoms like agitation and behavioural changes.

How can caregivers effectively monitor and adjust medical cannabis treatment for dementia patients to ensure safety and optimal results?

Caregivers hold a key responsibility in ensuring the proper use of medical cannabis when it comes to managing agitation and behavioural symptoms in dementia patients. Keeping a close eye on the patient’s mood, behaviour, and overall wellbeing is essential. Look out for any positive changes as well as potential side effects, such as drowsiness or shifts in appetite.

Always stick to the treatment plan prescribed by a qualified medical professional – like the specialists at Elios Clinics – and avoid making any changes to dosage or frequency without consulting them first. Keeping detailed notes on how the patient responds to the treatment can provide valuable insights for the doctor, helping them fine-tune the plan to better address the individual’s needs. Above all, prioritise safety and make sure to discuss any concerns with the prescribing doctor as soon as they arise.