Investigating the benefits of cannabinoids for agitation in Alzheimer's patients

Life’s end Benefits of CannaBidol and TetrahYdrocannabinol (LiBBY) Trial

NIH-funded research Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10408165

This study is looking at how well a mix of two cannabis compounds, THC and CBD, can help reduce agitation in people with Alzheimer's and other dementias who are in hospice care, aiming to find a safer option than the usual medications that can have tough side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical University of South Carolina NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10408165 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to explore the effectiveness of a combination of two cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), in treating agitation in patients with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia who are eligible for hospice care. Conducted within the Alzheimer's Clinical Trials Consortium, the study will involve multiple clinical sites to ensure a robust approach to patient care. The goal is to provide a safer alternative to current psychoactive medications, which often have significant side effects. By focusing on this vulnerable population, the research seeks to improve quality of life during end-of-life care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia who are experiencing agitation and are eligible for hospice care.

Not a fit: Patients with mild cognitive impairment or those not experiencing agitation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for managing agitation in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using cannabinoids for various neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer diseaseAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's disease dementiaAlzheimers disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.