Cannabis and Cancer Treatment: Explained
|
|
Time: 5 min
Introduction
A cancer diagnosis can bring complex medical terms and a mix of emotions. That’s why exploring cannabis and cancer treatment is crucial. Understanding their potential benefits and risks empowers informed decisions about your health.
Table of Content
Introduction Cannabinoids and Cancer Treatment: Exploring the Science Understanding Cannabinoids Potential Benefits in Cancer Treatment Managing Side Effects and Risks Exploring Different Forms of Cannabis Legal Landscape and Personal Considerations Conclusion FAQs About Cannabis and Cancer Treatment
Cannabinoids and Cancer Treatment: Exploring the Science
Cannabis has a history of recreational and medicinal use. Now, research focuses on its potential in cancer care, specifically on cannabinoids.
Understanding Cannabinoids
The cannabis plant contains over 100 cannabinoids. Two prominent ones are THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
THC produces a "high," while CBD doesn't. Each cannabinoid interacts with our bodies differently, primarily through the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
This system influences various bodily functions. Cannabinoids like THC bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), mainly in the central nervous system and immune system. CBD's interaction is less direct but affects how other cannabinoids interact with these receptors.
Potential Benefits in Cancer Treatment
Research on cannabinoids as a direct cancer therapy is ongoing. Early studies suggest they may help manage cancer-related symptoms and treatment side effects. These studies offer several avenues for advanced cancer and pain relief. Some focus on:
- Nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy - Certain cannabinoids, with synthetic THC forms are available for this purpose.
- Pain relief - Cannabinoids, especially THC combined with CBD, may reduce cancer pain.
- Loss of appetite - THC could stimulate appetite, which is crucial during cancer treatment.
Many of these benefits have been seen across many different cancer types. More research is needed on which specific cancer types will respond the best.
Managing Side Effects and Risks
Like any therapy, cannabinoids have potential side effects. Common ones include:
- Dizziness
- Dleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Confusion
- Mood changes
Further investigation is required for rare and serious side effects like heart issues and stroke.
The method of cannabis consumption matters. Smoking flower carries risks due to carcinogens. These toxins pose similar dangers as those in tobacco.
Research into interactions between cannabinoids and conventional cancer treatments, like immunotherapy, is needed. Studies suggest potential impacts on survival or disease progression for some cannabis users undergoing cancer treatment. Individual patient histories and specific circumstances are important.
Exploring Different Forms of Cannabis
Cannabinoids come in various forms, such as oromucosal sprays, capsules, edibles, topical solutions, and inhalation methods.
Form |
Description |
Considerations |
Oromucosal Sprays |
Administered under the tongue, offering precise dosing and quick absorption. |
Can be expensive and not suitable for everyone. |
Capsules |
Easy to swallow, providing controlled dosages with varying THC/CBD ratios. |
Effects may be delayed compared to sprays or inhalation, with variation based on THC/CBD amounts. |
Edibles |
Convenient but slower-acting, with less predictable effects and higher risk of overconsumption. Starting with a low dose is recommended. |
Dosage control can be difficult. |
Topical Solutions |
Applied directly to the skin for localized pain and inflammation. Usually contain low cannabinoid levels. |
Absorption varies; may provide insufficient dosage for systemic symptom relief. |
Inhalation |
Fastest onset but potential lung irritation. Illegally acquired products carry additional risks. |
Not advised for those with respiratory issues or a history of smoking. The risk of ingesting toxins is high. |
Legal Landscape and Personal Considerations
Medical cannabis legality involves union-wide and individual country laws. Several EU members have legalized medicinal cannabis. However, possession and consumption remain complex legal issues due to inconsistencies. The main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis continues to be regulated at a union-wide level.
Individual needs vary. Openly discuss cannabis use with your cancer treatment team or a specialist. They can provide personalized advice based on your cancer type and medical marijuana laws in your country.
Medical and/or recreational marijuana laws are ever-changing. Your doctor can provide a great perspective, taking into account your individual needs for:
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
- Testicular cancer
- And other cancer types
It's crucial to remember there is no single perfect way to treat cancer and cancer-related pain; your cancer care team is there to ensure your needs are met with as little suffering as possible, and with as few adverse events, as possible.
Discuss your concerns with your medical team, and look for medical marijuana options near you to decrease anxiety, especially as anxiety related to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and long-term cancer care is one of the main issues faced during palliative care, alongside appetite loss, pain, and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or radiation treatment. There is hope.
In Other Words: Medical cannabis laws in Europe vary by country, with some allowing its use for managing cancer-related symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety. It's important to discuss cannabis options with your medical team to ensure safe and personalized care, as individual needs and legal access differ. While cannabis may help alleviate symptoms, it is not a cure, and treatment plans should focus on minimizing suffering and improving quality of life.
Conclusion
Exploring cannabinoids in cancer treatment involves weighing potential benefits and risks, including impacts on tumor growth, cell proliferation, and cell death, as well as risks based on your cancer type. Though not a cure, cannabinoids might support better care outcomes, even in patients with advanced cancer. Discuss with your healthcare providers how they could fit into your care plan.
Continue researching, as the field of cannabinoids and cancer treatment is constantly evolving. Educating yourself and communicating openly can provide hope. This includes discussions about cancer cell lines and different cell lines' susceptibility to cannabinoid-induced cell death, whether by oromucosal spray or inhaled cannabis administration, especially concerning certain lung cancer cell lines.
Exploring all options, like cannabis extract, compounds called cannabinoids, CBD oil, or cannabis oil can not only provide potential benefits alongside cancer therapy but can provide more options for symptom relief during advanced cancer treatment, so remember to ask any questions you have to help ensure you find what works best for you.
"You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live."
FAQs About Cannabis and Cancer Treatment
Can cannabis cure cancer?
No, cannabis cannot cure cancer. However, it may help manage symptoms like pain, nausea, and loss of appetite caused by cancer treatments. More research is needed to determine its role in cancer therapy.
Is medical cannabis legal for cancer treatment in Europe?
In many European countries, medical cannabis is legal for managing cancer-related symptoms like pain and nausea. Laws vary by country, so access depends on local regulations and doctor prescriptions.
How does cannabis help with cancer treatment symptoms?
Cannabis compounds like THC and CBD can reduce nausea, stimulate appetite, and relieve chronic pain in cancer patients. Some patients also report better sleep and reduced anxiety, but effects vary for everyone.
Author: Edijs Eleksis
Growing up in a country where cannabis was stigmatized and even shamed, Edijs faced many roadblocks to get to enjoy the benefits of this plant. However, as more countries worldwide are opening up to the idea of cannabis-available society, Edijs is inspired to take on a mission: spreading awareness about cannabis and its industry in Europe through engaging, educational blog content. Because only with more information, humans as a collective, can make decisions that are better for all of us!
