Chemotherapy is a common treatment method for cancer patients, but it comes with side effects that can be difficult to manage.

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain, and difficulty sleeping are only a few of the symptoms that can occur during chemotherapy. Medical cannabis has been studied for its potential to alleviate these side effects and improve the quality of life for patients undergoing chemotherapy.

What is Medical Cannabis?

Medical cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant and its components, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), for medical purposes.

CBD is a non-psychoactive component of the plant, while THC is the component that produces the “high” associated with recreational use. Medical cannabis is typically prescribed in the form of oils, capsules, or vaporizers.

How Does Medical Cannabis Help Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy?

Medical cannabis can help cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in several ways:.

1. Reducing Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy. Medical cannabis has been found to reduce both nausea and vomiting by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates appetite, mood, and pain.

THC has been found to be particularly effective in reducing nausea and vomiting, and it has been approved by the FDA as a treatment for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting that hasn’t improved with other medications.

2. Stimulating Appetite

Chemotherapy can cause loss of appetite and weight loss, which can affect the patient’s overall health and wellbeing. Medical cannabis has been found to stimulate appetite by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

THC has been shown to increase appetite in cancer patients, and it has been approved by the FDA as a treatment for anorexia associated with weight loss in patients with AIDS.

3. Reducing Pain and Inflammation

Cancer and chemotherapy can cause pain and inflammation in the body. Medical cannabis has been found to reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

CBD has been found to be particularly effective in reducing pain and inflammation without the psychoactive effects of THC.

4. Improving Sleep

Chemotherapy can cause difficulty sleeping, which can affect the patient’s overall quality of life. Medical cannabis has been found to improve sleep by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

THC has been shown to improve sleep in patients with chronic pain and PTSD.

Is Medical Cannabis Safe?

Medical cannabis is generally considered safe when used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, like any medication, it can have potential side effects, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or drowsiness.

Some patients may also experience psychiatric side effects, such as anxiety or paranoia. It is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of medical cannabis with their healthcare provider before using it.

Conclusion

Medical cannabis has the potential to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy and improve the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing treatment.

It has been found to be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting, stimulating appetite, reducing pain and inflammation, and improving sleep. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks of medical cannabis with their healthcare provider before using it.