Medical Marijuana for Mesothelioma Treatment

Medical Marijuana for Mesothelioma Treatment Alternative Option

Mesothelioma patients often undergo traditional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, which can lead to discomfort and undesirable side effects. In such cases, some patients have turned to medical marijuana as a potential solution to alleviate these symptoms, with the aim of improving their overall quality of life.

What is Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana is derived from the cannabis plant, specifically its flower buds and foliage. Scientists have identified several biologically active components in marijuana, known as cannabinoids, which can have drug-like effects on the body. The two most extensively studied cannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

Medical marijuana comes in several forms, including dried leaves or buds for smoking, edible products like cookies and brownies, oils for vaporizing or mixing into food or drinks, creams for topical application, sprays for oral use, and pills and capsules.

How Medical Marijuana Can Ease Treatment Side Effects

Mesothelioma patients considering medical marijuana can explore its potential benefits in managing both cancer-related symptoms and the side effects of conventional treatments prescribed by their doctors. For instance, THC, one of the primary cannabinoids in marijuana, has been found to alleviate pain, nausea, vomiting, increase appetite, reduce inflammation, and improve insomnia. On the other hand, CBD can help reduce anxiety, paranoia, and counteract the psychoactive effects of THC.

Some studies have suggested that inhaled marijuana may be a useful alternative for neuropathic pain, often caused by nerve damage from chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.

However, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects when using medical marijuana, which may include difficulty with concentration and memory, dizziness, dry mouth and eyes, fainting, fast heart rate, headache, and increased appetite. THC, in particular, can lead to a “high” that may cause confusion and reduced control over movements, as well as anxiety and paranoia. While severe adverse effects are rare, long-term THC use may pose risks like mental disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder), respiratory complications (chronic bronchitis), and disturbances in sleep quality and learning, especially for individuals under 25.

It’s crucial for mesothelioma patients to engage in open discussions with their doctors regarding the potential side effects, risks, and drug interactions associated with medical marijuana. This dialogue should occur before making any decisions regarding its use.

Medical Marijuana Studies

Pre-clinical studies have shown that THC and other cannabinoids may slow the growth or cause the death of certain types of cancer cells in laboratory settings. Some animal studies have suggested that certain cannabinoids can inhibit cancer growth and reduce its spread. However, clinical studies involving humans have not conclusively demonstrated that cannabinoids can effectively control or cure cancer.

Clinical trials have indicated that individuals who used marijuana extracts often required less pain medication and experienced improved appetite. Nevertheless, further research is needed to understand the effects of THC and CBD on cancer, including mesothelioma. Relying solely on marijuana as a treatment while avoiding or delaying conventional medical care, especially for mesothelioma, may carry serious health consequences.

Approved Medical Marijuana Drugs

In the United States, two chemically pure drugs based on marijuana compounds have received approval for medical use:

  1. Dronabinol (Marinol®): This gelatin capsule contains THC and is FDA-approved to treat nausea and vomiting induced by cancer chemotherapy.
  2. Nabilone (Cesamet®): It is a synthetic cannabinoid that acts similarly to THC. Nabilone can be taken orally to address chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting when other medications have not been effective.

Additionally, Nabiximols, a cannabinoid drug containing a mixture of THC and CBD, is available in Canada and parts of Europe for pain management associated with cancer, a common symptom in mesothelioma patients. While it is not approved in the United States, clinical trials are ongoing to explore its potential benefits for various conditions.

Consulting a Doctor

Decisions regarding the use of medical marijuana for symptom management should be made collaboratively between mesothelioma patients and their healthcare providers. Several factors should be considered during these discussions, including potential side effects, interactions with current or future medications, the balance between benefit and harm, patient preferences, values, and applicable laws and regulations.

It’s essential to note that while some states have legalized medical marijuana, federal law in the United States still classifies it as a Schedule I drug, prohibiting its prescription and use in hospital settings or licensed pharmacies. Therefore, “recommendations” or “referrals” are often used instead of “prescriptions.” Medical marijuana is not typically covered by insurance, but pharmaceutical dronabinol (Marinol®), containing THC, may be covered.

Patients residing in states with medical marijuana laws should obtain certification from their doctors, and careful research is advised when choosing a dispensary. Patients can inquire about the staff’s familiarity with using cannabis for cancer patients and request recommendations based on their symptoms and needs.

Medical marijuana is an option that some mesothelioma patients explore to manage symptoms and treatment side effects. However, it should be approached with caution, in consultation with healthcare professionals, to make informed decisions about its use as a complementary therapy.