Exploring the Potential Benefits of Cannabis for Cancer Patients
Since the legalization of medical marijuana in several states and countries, the medicinal properties of cannabis have been greatly studied and utilized. For cancer patients, both the recreational and therapeutic aspects of cannabis can be advantageous in managing many tough symptoms associated with the illness and treatments.
One of the most debilitating aspects of cancer treatment is the intense side effects induced by chemotherapy. These side effects often include drastic weight loss, fatigue, pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite. However, medical marijuana has shown promising results in curbing many of these side effects, making the journey of cancer patients less arduous.
The psychoactive component of cannabis known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) has been shown to greatly aid in pain management. Surprisingly, studies found that THC can interact with the body’s natural pain regulation systems, reducing pain levels while avoiding the dependency risks associated with opioids. A study led by the University of New Mexico found that cannabis provides a significant improvement (approximately three times more than conventional drugs) in reducing pain intensity. The researchers deemed cannabis highly effective in providing pain relief, thus emphasizing its role in pain management for cancer patients.
Nausea and vomiting are commonly associated with chemotherapy. The FDA has approved synthetic THC, such as dronabinol and nabilone, for combating these side effects where other nausea medications have failed. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has affirmed that patients treated with cannabinoid medications were more likely to report a significant reduction in vomiting and nausea than those given a placebo.
The loss of appetite can also contribute to severe weight loss in cancer patients. Again, cannabis has been reported to stimulate hunger and could help increase food intake and slow weight loss. A comprehensive review in the British Journal of Pharmacology discusses how cannabinoids could potentially modify feeding patterns, although more research is required for a definitive answer.
Incorporating cannabidiol (CBD) in treatment plans can be a holistic approach towards maintaining a more balanced state of health. CBD is traditionally known for its non-psychoactive properties and potential health benefits. A report in Frontiers in Pharmacology suggests that it has various anti-cancer properties, including the ability to induce cell death in tumors. CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties, and it could potentially decrease the side effects related to cancer treatment.
Moreover, a preliminary study presented at the 2016 European Society for Medical Oncology conference suggested that a combination of THC and CBD could even enhance the effectiveness of radiation treatment for aggressive brain tumors. This could provide a forward step for medical marijuana in oncology, from providing symptom relief to actively contributing to the cancer treatment process.
Undoubtedly, the robust potential of cannabis for cancer patients is increasingly recognized in the medical field with scientific evidence in support of its therapeutic benefits. However, it’s important to note that the consumption of cannabis, in any form, should be conducted under the strict supervision of a healthcare professional.
Sources:
University of New Mexico study
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
British Journal of Pharmacology review
Frontiers in Pharmacology report
The 2016 European Society for Medical Oncology conference