CBD Reduces Plaque, Improves Cognitive Function in Model of Familial Alzheimer's

There is a dire need for novel therapies to improve outcomes for patients with Alzheimer’s Disease, which is considered one of the fastest-growing health threats of our time.

In a promising new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, investigators reported that a two-week course of high dose CBD helped reduce plaque and improve cognitive function in an experimental model of early onset familial AD.

Familial disease is an inherited version of Alzheimer’s in which symptoms typically surface in the 30s and 40s and occurs in about 10-15% of patients.

Next steps include determining optimal doses and giving CBD earlier in the disease process. They also are exploring delivery systems including the use of an inhaler that should help deliver the CBD more directly to the brain.

See article below for more information. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210309192548.htm Citation for journal article, available here https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33612548/

Medical Cannabis and Cognitive Performance in Middle to Old Adults Treated For Chronic Pain

A new study assessing the relationship between long term medical cannabis use and cognitive function amongst middle-aged and older chronic pain patients has shown no association with declines in cognitive performance.

Researchers assessed psychomotor reaction, attention, working memory and new learning. Dosage, concentrations, length of time using medical cannabis and frequency of use were also assessed.

These results are extremely encouraging and should support patients and practitioners alike in their risk-benefit analysis when determining whether medical cannabis is a suitable treatment option.

Read the full research paper here.

Cannabis a superbug slaying antibiotic? McMaster researchers break new ground

Could cannabis be an antibiotic capable of fighting drug-resistant superbugs?

Possibly.

New research from McMaster University in Hamilton, ON, tested over 18 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant and found that cannabigerol (CBG) "was the strongest bacteria fighter." CBG has the ability to "fight the superbug known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA),” an aggressive and potentially deadly bacteria.

Everyone knows about CBD, but their research showed that CBD was more potent: "It turns out it's active against the membrane of bacteria; it kills antibiotic resistant bacteria, and can really go after MRSA."

This specific cannabinoid "packed enough toxicity that it could destroy red blood cells and not just virulent bacteria," said Dr. Eric Brown, lead author of the study.

As the body of evidence grows around the other 100+ cannabinoids, it is an exciting time to be in the field of cannabinoid medicine and we will likely find many new medical applications as we undertake more research.

Full article available here.