Medical cannabis for cancer

No. There are currently no clinical studies in humans that demonstrate an anti-tumour effect of cannabis. Laboratory studies show indications that have so far not been transferable to treatment in humans. The Cancer Information Service of the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) summarises the state of knowledge neutrally. Cannabis may be an option in supportive therapy to relieve accompanying symptoms, but it is no substitute for oncological therapy.

Cannabis is not a tumour therapy. As a supportive measure it can influence accompanying symptoms such as nausea, pain, loss of appetite and sleep disorders. Some patients on cannabis report calmer sleep, less nausea and a better appetite. The response varies from person to person. The decision is always made in coordination with the treating oncologist.

The choice of strain depends on the dominant accompanying symptom and general condition. THC-dominant strains are used in particular for loss of appetite and nausea. CBD-dominant strains may be considered during the day when a psychoactive effect is to be avoided. Combination products allow a balance between effect and tolerability. The specific choice belongs in the medical consultation in coordination with oncology.

Inhaled cannabis (vaporiser) usually takes effect within a few minutes and lasts two to four hours, which can be relevant for acute nausea and breakthrough pain. Medicines taken by mouth, such as oils or capsules, work more slowly, after about 30 to 90 minutes, but last six to eight hours and are suitable for baseline therapy across the day.

Possible side effects are dizziness, a dry mouth, tiredness, mild problems concentrating and a temporary increase in heart rate. If the THC dose is too high, drowsiness or feelings of anxiety can occur. In cancer patients, particular caution is needed with previous cardiovascular disease, previous mental illness and accompanying medication. Interactions with chemotherapy drugs and other oncological substances are possible.

Compared with strong painkillers (opioids) and sedatives (benzodiazepines), the potential for physical dependence is low. With permanently high doses of THC, psychological habituation can develop. Under medical control and close supervision within a therapeutic framework, this risk falls considerably. Ending therapy should be done gradually and in consultation with the treating doctor.

Anyone whose reaction time is impaired by cannabis therapy must not take part in road traffic. Patients on medically prescribed therapy have a different legal position from recreational users, but must assess their own fitness to drive responsibly. Especially at the start of therapy and after dose adjustments, reaction time is often reduced. Recommendation: do not drive yourself during the first days of adjustment.

In oncology, cost coverage by German statutory health insurance is approved in many cases, especially for nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, tumour-related pain and disease-related weight loss. The prerequisites are a serious illness and evidence that standard therapies have not worked well enough. In the initial consultation, Cureal supports you with the assessment and with the application.

A combination is often possible but requires close coordination with the treating oncologist. Interactions are possible in particular with chemotherapy drugs that are processed via the same metabolic pathway in the body. Interactions are also possible with accompanying medication such as antidepressants, sedatives or blood thinners. Before any change to therapy, all medicines currently being taken should be discussed openly.