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Cannabinoids are compounds found in Cannabis that act on specific receptors in the body to produce various pharmacological effects. They are approved drugs for treating cancer-related side effects and may benefit cancer patients. This summary includes many medical terms explained in the NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms and how it is helpful for cannabinoid pharmaceutical companies. These terms are meant for the non-expert reader.
Cannabinoids may help treat cancer-related side effects
A recent study suggests that cannabinoids from Cannabis can help patients deal with cancer-related side effects. It also indicates that cannabinoids may have synergistic effects with chemotherapy drugs. Although research on the use of Cannabis as a cancer treatment is still in its early stages, this new study shows that Cannabis may help cancer patients overcome the side effects of chemotherapy.
Some studies have shown that cannabinoids may alleviate symptoms associated with cancer, including nausea, anxiety, and poor appetite. However, further research is needed to determine whether these effects are due to the cannabinoids or the cancer-fighting effects of other cancer treatments. However, CBD is not a substitute for other cancer treatments and should not be used as a substitute.
They may help treat chronic pain
Using cannabinoids in medicine may help relieve chronic pain in various conditions, including chronic neuropathic pain, chronic muscle pain, and cancer-related pain. However, the side effects of these drugs are often undesirable, and many people seek alternative treatments that may not involve the risks of these drugs.
The authors recognize that there are few high-quality published studies on the effectiveness of cannabinoid pharmaceuticals. To help fill that gap, they consulted experts in pain management. These included psychiatrists, neurologists, researchers with expertise in cannabinoid pharmacology, and patient representatives with experience with CBMPs.
One study suggests that a THC/CBD oromucosal spray may help reduce chronic pain. However, the use of these pharmaceuticals for this purpose is still in its early stages, and further high-quality trials are needed to determine if these products are effective in treating chronic pain.
They reduce nausea
Cannabinoid pharmaceuticals are gaining attention in the medical field as a promising treatment option for chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. These cannabinoids, naturally occurring compounds in the cannabis plant, reduce nausea and vomiting in animal models. In tests, cannabinoids decreased the frequency of vomiting in mice and rats and prevented vomiting in emetic species. These studies are promising, but more research is needed.
Cannabinoid pharmaceuticals have also been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting in patients with HIV. This is because the drugs block the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can cause nausea and vomiting. Another drug, THC, works by binding to the CB1 receptors in the brain, which prevents vomiting. It also has uplifting effects, which may help patients deal with nausea.
They may help treat cancer-related side effects
Cannabinoid pharmaceuticals, or cannabis extracts, may help treat the side effects of cancer treatments. Recent research suggests that cannabinoids can have a synergistic effect with conventional chemotherapy agents. These drugs are already used in some treatment protocols, but more research is needed to confirm the benefits of these compounds.
While the FDA has not yet approved CBD for cancer treatment, it has been shown to alleviate nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients. In addition, several states have legalized marijuana for patients to use during their treatments. However, patients should discuss their symptoms openly with their healthcare team to determine the best treatment option. Patients can also seek a physician’s certification for the use of medical marijuana if it’s available in their area.
Cancer patients often experience nausea and vomiting during and after chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments. To treat nausea and vomiting, researchers have developed cannabinoid pharmaceuticals such as Nabilone. This drug is approved in Canada for chemotherapy-induced nausea, and it is sometimes given to patients when other antinausea medications fail to provide adequate relief. Loss of appetite is another common side effect of cancer treatments. When this side effect is severe, it’s known as cachexia.