Role of Cannabis in Treating Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea And Vomiting

1. We are aware of the medicinal effects of cannabis from centuries. Through early scientific researches, we have recognized a few biologically active compounds found in cannabis. CBD(cannabidiol) and THC(Tetrahydrocannabinol) are commonly found cannabinoids in the cannabis plant and, has psychoactive and medicinal properties. These cannabinoids interact with receptors in our body and regulate the immune system and neurological functions in our brain. With the enactment of cannabis laws, it is now available for medical usage in most of the states. If you have a qualifying medical illness, then you can avail of the benefits of medical marijuana through a medical card. Get in touch with ​medical marijuana doctors in New York​ to access your condition. Cannabis on Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Several studies show the efficacy of cannabis on nausea related to chemotherapy in cancer patients. ​This study​ involving 1366 patients, showed that cannabinoids are more effective antiemetics than other drugs(chlorpromazine, domperidone, haloperidol) involved used in the study. A study ​on mice and rats suggests that cannabinoids found in cannabis may hinder the growth of certain types of tumors. Cannabinoid modulates the critical cell signaling course that controls cancer cell survival and growth. Most studies conducted on the mechanism of cannabinoids anticancer activity are conducted on clinical cells. They kill the cancer cells through apoptosis and inhibit cell proliferation.

2. FDA Approved Cannabinoid Drugs There are two FDA approved drugs infused with cannabis compounds available to treat nausea related to chemotherapy in cancer patients. Dronabinol and Nabilone Dronabinol and Nabilone are used in the treatment of nausea related to chemotherapy. They both contain synthetic ​tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC), which is also a naturally occurring compound of the marijuana plant. Dronabinol solution helps cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to manage the side effects of the treatment. Antiemetics Effects of Synthetic THC Sensory organs present in our brain and digestive tract when stimulated causes nausea and vomiting. Drugs used in chemotherapy like cisplatin and methotrexate stimulates the critical receptors in our body and can cause vomiting even after a few minutes of the treatment. Researches do not fully understand how these drugs induce vomiting in patients. The effects of chemotherapy also vary from person to person. Two forms of THC; delta-8 and delta-9 are efficient in suppressing vomiting. Dronabinol and Nabilone, which are synthetic cannabinoids, show potential antiemetics behaviors. Clinical studies​ show their efficacy over some of the other widely used antiemetic drugs. Side Effect Like all drugs, Dronabinol and Nabilone also have side effects. While the course of medication, a patient may experience dizziness, confusion, euphoria, or experience stomach pain. Your primary doctor would help you to manage these effects and adjust the dosage accordingly. Your doctor will only continue the medication if the benefits are more significant than the adverse effects of the drugs.

3. Some patients might also experience a pounding heartbeat, paranoia, or anxiety. In rare cases, some allergic reactions could occur, including rashes, swelling, or itching. You must contact your doctor if you experience any of this.