Cannabis-based therapies are currently being investigated for the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), such as agitation, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and appetite loss, particularly in cases where standard treatments are insufficient. Early studies with low-dose synthetic THC showed limited efficacy. In contrast, recent research on combined THC and CBD formulations at carefully titrated doses suggests potential improvements in agitation and caregiver distress while maintaining an acceptable safety profile.

The potential benefits of cannabis-based therapies must be weighed against associated risks, such as sedation, falls, confusion, cardiovascular effects, and drug-drug interactions, especially in frail older adults. Given the modest evidence base, cannabis should be considered an adjunctive and individualized intervention only after reversible causes, such as pain, infection, or delirium, have been addressed and other therapies have failed.

In palliative and supportive care, the focus is not on disease modification but on symptom relief, comfort, and quality of life through cautious dosing and close monitoring.