Understanding Cannabis and Its Use in Cancer Treatment

Original Article: https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.23.02596

Introduction

Cannabis, a plant with psychoactive compounds like THC and CBD, has been used historically for its therapeutic and mind-altering effects. These compounds work together in what’s called the “entourage effect.” Though research has advanced, we still lack full understanding of cannabis’s bioactive components. Many cancer patients use cannabis to manage symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety. While it can help, there’s limited guidance from oncologists, leaving patients to seek advice elsewhere, often from dispensaries.

New Guidance from Experts

The guideline development process for this cannabis-based treatment guide was led by a multidisciplinary Expert Panel, including a patient representative. The guidelines stress the importance of clear, unbiased communication between patients and doctors regarding cannabis use. Clinicians should recommend cannabis only in specific contexts, not in place of a cancer-directed treatment. Clinicians should not recommend that patients use > 300mg per day of oral CBD to manage symptoms such as nausea. More research is needed to fully understand its impact on cancer treatment and symptoms.

Future Research Directions

Priorities for future research include exploration of health care disparities related to medical cannabis, potential anticancer properties of cannabis, methods for successful patient-physician communication about cannabis in relation to cancer management, and other side effects of cannabis.