Does Cinnamon Interact With Dementia Medications?
Cinnamon is a popular spice that some people use for its potential health benefits, including possible protection against brain changes linked to dementia like Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers have found that compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde, may help reduce tau protein tangles and amyloid-beta plaques, which are key signs of Alzheimer’s.[1] It might also lower brain inflammation and boost a protein called BDNF that supports neuron health.[1] One study even noted that a cinnamon byproduct improved thinking skills in people with mild Alzheimer’s by lowering related proteins in the blood.[1]
People with dementia often take medications to manage symptoms or slow progression, such as cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil or memantine. However, there is no direct evidence from studies showing that cinnamon interacts with these specific dementia drugs.[1][2][3][4] Cinnamon’s main known interactions are with other types of medicines. For example, it contains coumarin, which can strengthen the effects of blood thinners like warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, or aspirin, raising the risk of bleeding.[1] This matters because some dementia patients also take blood thinners to prevent strokes.
Cinnamon can also lower blood sugar, which might amplify diabetes drugs and lead to low blood sugar levels.[1][4] While dementia meds do not directly affect blood sugar, many older adults with dementia have diabetes too, so this overlap could be a concern. No research links cinnamon to issues with dementia treatments specifically, but its effects on blood clotting and sugar make caution wise.
Experts stress choosing Ceylon cinnamon over Cassia type for daily use, as Ceylon has far less coumarin and lowers liver risks.[1] High doses of Cassia cinnamon could build up coumarin and cause problems over time.[1][2] Always talk to a doctor before adding cinnamon supplements, especially with any prescription. They can check your full medication list and suggest safe amounts, like using it as a spice in food rather than high-dose pills.
Sources
https://www.lifeafter40.com/post/the-health-benefits-of-cinnamon-for-people-over-40-years-old
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251215/Scientists-map-how-cinnamone28099s-bioactives-interact-with-cancer-signaling.aspx
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12745284/
https://www.consultant360.com/article/chromium-and-cinnamon-supplements-patients-type-2-diabetes-how-strong-evidence
