Lewy Body Dementia for Medical Marijuana

How Medical Marijuana May Help Patients Living with Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy body dementia is a progressive neurological disease that causes memory loss, movement difficulties, sleep disorders, and behavioral changes. It is one of the most common forms of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease.

Louisiana law includes neurodegenerative diseases as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana treatment. Patients who have been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia in Louisiana may be eligible to receive medical marijuana to help manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

 

If you or someone you care for is living with Lewy body dementia and experiencing distressing symptoms, medical marijuana may offer relief and help maintain comfort and dignity throughout the course of the disease.

 

What Is Lewy Body Dementia?

Lewy body dementia is a degenerative brain disorder caused by abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein, which interfere with brain function. It is closely related to Parkinson’s disease and can present with a wide range of symptoms, including:

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• Memory loss and confusion

• Visual hallucinations

• Muscle stiffness, tremors, and problems with balance and walking

• Severe sleep disturbances, including acting out dreams

• Changes in alertness and attention

• Anxiety, depression, and agitation

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This condition can be difficult to manage because its symptoms are complex and overlap with those of other neurological diseases, and because not all standard medications are well tolerated by patients.

 

How Medical Marijuana May Help Patients with Lewy Body Dementia

Studies and clinical observations suggest that medical marijuana may help address several of the most challenging symptoms associated with Lewy body dementia:

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• Anxiety and agitation: Medical marijuana may help reduce feelings of restlessness, distress, and emotional discomfort.

• Sleep disturbances: Certain cannabis-based medicines may improve sleep quality and help regulate sleep-wake cycles.

• Movement problems: Some patients have reported reduced muscle stiffness, tremors, and improved mobility.

• Appetite loss and weight loss: Medical marijuana may stimulate appetite and help prevent malnutrition.

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A review of cannabinoid use in dementia care, published in 2022, found that cannabis-derived treatments may improve behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, although more research is needed to determine the best approach for each individual.

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It is important to consult with a knowledgeable physician to determine whether medical marijuana is appropriate, and to monitor for possible side effects such as increased confusion, dizziness, or worsening hallucinations.

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Qualifying for Medical Marijuana in Louisiana with Lewy Body Dementia

Louisiana law specifically lists neurodegenerative diseases as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana treatment. Lewy body dementia falls within this category, along with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease.

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If you or someone you care for has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, you can schedule a consultation with a Louisiana-licensed medical marijuana physician to obtain a recommendation.