Can a THC-Based drug calm Alzheimer's agitation? new trial aims to find out
NCT ID NCT07422311
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC (the active ingredient in cannabis), can safely reduce agitation in people with Alzheimer's disease. About 140 adults aged 50 to 90 with Alzheimer's-related agitation will receive either dronabinol or a placebo for 12 weeks, followed by a 6-month extension where everyone gets the active drug. The goal is to see if the drug improves agitation scores compared to placebo.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- dronabinol oral solution (a synthetic form of THC, the active ingredient in cannabis)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could provide a new option to reduce agitation in people with Alzheimer's, improving their quality of life and easing caregiver burden.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-to-mid-stage trial with only 140 participants. Dronabinol may not work better than placebo, and side effects like dizziness or confusion are possible, especially in older adults.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Finders Medical Center
Bedford Park, SA Adelaide, 5042, Australia
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