Every year, Alzheimer’s impacts the lives of millions of Americans. In addition to the victims of Alzheimer’s, the families and loved ones of patients are devastating by the effects of the debilitating disease. Medical researchers, patients, and their loved ones, are growing enthusiastic about the potential for the treatment of Alzheimer’s with cannabis. New research has also bolsters claims that the compounds in cannabis can be effective in the treatment of Alzheimer’s. In the September issue of the Journal of Alzheimer’s, a recent study was published with support for previous evidence that THC can be therapeutic in treating the disease.
According to public health reports, more than five million American’s suffer from Alzheimer’s. More than one in three seniors will die with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. The disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and cost the nation approximately $203 billion in 2013. Due to the significant impact that the condition has on patients and their families throughout the nation, a significant amount of attention has been paid to potential methods of treating or curbing the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Researchers at the University of South Florida in collaboration with Thomas Jefferson University, pursued investigative efforts to determine the potentially therapeutic qualities of THC. They were particularly interested in slowing or halting the characteristics of the disease. The study involved the treatment of Alzheimer’s cells with THC and then the researchers examined the cells at specific time markets to determine the deviation. According to the publication, researchers found that the THC was effective at lowering certain Alzheimer’s protein cells.
A summary of the findings indicated that the active ingredient in marijuana (THC) directly interacts with the Alzheimer proteins and has the effect of “inhibiting aggression.” According to the researchers, THC was also effective at lowering other markers of the disease. Moreover, the use of THC did not reveal any toxicity levels, rather the use of THC has the potential to enhance the function of mitochondria (the cell’s energy source). Past research has highlighted the antioxidant properties of THC, however, this is the first report that directly shows that marijuana compounds can impact Alzheimer’s aggressive pathology. The drug effectively decreases the protein activities and can induce mitochondrial function.
The future of treating Alzheimer’s with pot is still very much new territory, but widening acceptance of medical marijuana could mean new opportunities for patients and in nursing homes. Similar research from the same publication indicates that THC has the potential to naturally boost the endocannabinoid system which naturally fights Alzheimer’s. Previous research has shown that the disease can arise from a lifetime of brain inflammation, a condition that can be treated with cannabis. Some neuroscientists believe that using marijuana at a young age can actually prevent Alzheimer’s.
Whether you or a loved one is suffering from a disease or dementia, there may be treatment therapies and hope in medical marijuana. Our Orange County medical marijuana attorneys are committed to raising awareness to protect the rights of our clients. In addition to representing individuals faced with criminal investigations or charges, we can also help dispensary owners and businesses ensure compliance with Southern California marijuana laws and regulations.
The Los Angeles CANNABIS LAW Group represents growers, dispensaries, collectives, patients and those facing marijuana charges. Call us at 949-375-4734.
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