For years, cannabis has been used as a legal and illegal drug to treat various medical conditions. In recent times, researchers have explored the potential benefits of cannabis-based treatments for cancer patients, particularly those suffering from chronic pain, nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy. This article provides an overview of the scientific evidence surrounding cannabis treatment for cancer.
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that contains many compounds including cannabinoids such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the “high” associated with marijuana, while CBD does not produce this effect. Both compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays an important role in regulating pain, inflammation, mood, appetite, and other functions.
How Can Cannabis Help Cancer Patients?
The potential benefits of cannabis-based treatments for cancer patients have been studied extensively. Many studies suggest that cannabis can help reduce cancer-related symptoms such as pain, nausea, and vomiting due to chemotherapy. It may also help reduce anxiety, depression, and fatigue, and improve sleep quality.
In addition, some research suggests that the cannabinoids in cannabis may be able to slow down the spread of certain types of cancer. For example, a study published in the Oncology Reports journal found that CBD was able to reduce the growth of breast cancer cells in mice. However, more research is needed to determine if cannabis can effectively treat cancer in humans.
Risks and Side Effects of Cannabis Treatment
Although cannabis-based treatments may have potential benefits for cancer patients, they come with certain risks and side effects. These include drowsiness, impaired coordination, confusion, and dizziness. Additionally, long-term use of cannabis is associated with dependence and addiction. Therefore, it is important to discuss any cannabis-based treatments with your doctor before using them. You can get consulted with one of our doctors at Elios Clinics by just filling in our new patient form.
It is important to note that cannabis is not approved by the FDA for cancer treatment. Moreover, the safety and efficacy of cannabis-based treatments have not been established. Therefore, it is recommended to speak to your doctor before trying any cannabis-based treatments for cancer.
Cannabis-based treatments may offer relief from cancer-related symptoms such as nausea, pain, and vomiting due to chemotherapy. However, more research is needed to determine if these treatments are safe and effective for cancer patients. If you are considering using cannabis-based treatments for cancer, it is important to discuss this with your doctor first.