Using cannabidiol to help prevent Alzheimer's disease in older adults

Cannabidiol for Individuals at Risk for Alzheimer's Disease: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10870209

This study is looking at whether taking CBD can help improve brain health and slow down memory loss in older adults who might be at risk for Alzheimer's disease, and participants will try different types of CBD or a placebo over six months to see how it affects their thinking and overall well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10870209 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on cognitive health in older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Participants will be involved in a 24-week clinical trial where they will receive either full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD, CBD alone, or a placebo, all while being monitored for changes in cognitive function and biomarkers related to inflammation and oxidative stress. The study aims to determine if CBD can help slow down cognitive decline and improve overall mental health in this population. By participating, individuals will contribute to understanding how cannabinoids may impact Alzheimer's disease progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or experiencing mild cognitive impairment.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those under 65 years of age may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic option for older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving their cognitive health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of cannabinoids like CBD is gaining popularity, this specific approach to assessing its impact on Alzheimer's disease is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical trials.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.