Title:Reducing dementia agitation with THC/CBD combination

In a first-of-its-kind clinical trial, the Georgetown University Medical Center Memory Disorders Program is studying the effects of an oral drug called T2:C100, which comprises two components found in marijuana—THC and CBD. The goal of the study is to investigate its potential to decrease agitation experienced by those with dementia at the end of life.

Commonly used medications for this agitation—morphine, valium, and haldol—have limited effectiveness. Recognizing the urgent need for better treatment options, the Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials Consortium (ACTC) Life’s End Benefits of Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol (LiBBY) trial aims to improve the quality of life and death for participants by exploring the potential of T2:C100.

“More than 50 percent of people with dementia will receive hospice care at the end of life; 70 percent of them will receive psychotropic medications to manage agitation. However, these medications often cause unwanted side effects,” explains Melanie Chadwick, the principal research investigator for Georgetown’s Memory Disorders Program. “This study is important because there are no FDA approved medications to manage agitation at the end of life in dementia.”

Georgetown is recruiting local people near the end of life to participate in this 12-week, phase 2 trial. It is one of approximately 15 sites nationwide participating in the National Institutes of Health-sponsored ACTC LiBBY trial.