Forecasts for 2023 indicated that 239,100 people in Canada would face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, marking a slight rise from the 233,900 cases noted in 2022.
Prostate cancer remains the leading cancer diagnosis among males, while breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in females.
Although cancer has been around for a long time, researchers are actively seeking new ways to improve patient care. A significant research project received a notable grant of $3.2 million to study the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, including those found in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most studies focus on the effects of cannabis on chemotherapy, with limited research on its impact on immunotherapy.
- Early findings suggest that cannabis can help manage side effects of cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- cannabis can provide quick and reliable doses to alleviate chemotherapy-related symptoms.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a distinguished psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has been awarded a significant $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to investigate the effects of cannabis on patients receiving immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a groundbreaking approach in cancer treatment, utilizing the immune system’s power to fight cancer. This complex defense mechanism acts as the body’s primary protector against infections and diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis, including pain relief, mood improvement, and sleep enhancement. However, Dr. Ashare is careful to acknowledge the valid concerns regarding possible negative effects arising from the interaction of cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of cancer patients undergoing treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief during and after their medical therapies. Research on its effects is limited, prompting Dr. Ashare to explore how it may assist patients.
She and her team aim to investigate the intricate dynamics between cannabis and immunotherapy in patients, with the primary goal of determining whether cannabis influences the effectiveness of treatment, either positively or negatively.
How Will the Study Work?
Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University have joined forces with UB to recruit participants for a year-long observational study. This study aims to deepen the understanding of the long-term advantages and potential risks of cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment will target 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy for cancer. To gain a comprehensive understanding, half of the participants will be cannabis users, while the other half will abstain from cannabis.
In contrast to traditional randomized studies, participants will have the freedom to choose their cannabis products, whether they prefer cannabis or edibles.
The grant’s secondary aim is to examine how neighborhood disadvantages affect outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The team leading this initiative consists of experts in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance misuse. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research, as it could significantly influence cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
While Dr. Ashare’s team embarks on new research regarding cannabis and immunotherapy, additional studies are also focusing on the effects of cannabis on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have been conducting trials to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in alleviating vomiting, particularly highlighting THC. This compound and other synthetic cannabinoids have shown a moderate degree of effectiveness in preventing chemotherapy-induced vomiting. Clinical studies also indicate that using cannabis can significantly suppress chemotherapy-related nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press revealed that a significant number of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A smaller group of THC-treated patients showed no change (27%), and data for one patient were incomplete. Loss of appetite is a common side effect of cancer treatment, leading to weight loss and malnutrition; however, THC has the potential to enhance food intake.
Pain
Pain is a common symptom for many individuals dealing with cancer. It may stem from the disease, various treatments, or other factors.
A detailed analysis featured in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights the effectiveness of cannabis in aiding pain management for patients. The research indicates a significant trend where patients’ overall medication use decreased consistently during quarterly check-ups, with a noted reduction in opioid use during the first three assessments.
Why Use a cannabis for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a compact and efficient battery-operated device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, which are popular in the cannabis market today. Comprising a battery, a precise heating element, and a specialized cartridge to hold the cannabis concentrates, cannabis offers diverse consumption options. Users can choose between disposable vape pens or refillable cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: There are also CBD vape pens available for those who wish to avoid the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may lower health risks associated with exposure to carcinogens. A 2007 study comparing cannabis smokers to vapers found a significant reduction in blood carbon monoxide levels in those who opted for vaping.
More Effective
A comprehensive study conducted by MAPS and California NORML found that 46% of THC converted to vapor when using a vape, compared to only 25% with a traditional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the amount of each inhale can be difficult when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For those unfamiliar with smoking, an excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with adjustable settings, allows users to precisely control their dosage per inhalation.
Weed Vapes for Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mL
Strain: Pink Kush
THC: 93-95%
510 Thread: Fits any vape battery
Effect: Soothing, Calming, Relaxing
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mL
Strain: Sour Diesel
THC: 93-95%
510 Thread: Fits any vape battery
Effect: Cerebral, Fast-acting, Stress relief, Mental clarity
OneStop – THC Distillate Disposable Cannabis Pen
Amount: 3 mL
Strain: Ghost Train Haze
THC: 93-95%
Rechargeable
Effect: Euphoric, Energetic, Heightens creativity
Conclusion
Grants aimed at exploring the effects of cannabis create hopeful possibilities for cancer patients undergoing various medical treatments, enabling them to find cost-effective relief while alleviating adverse effects linked to opioids or other medications.
As ongoing research continues to investigate cannabis’s role in immunotherapy, initial results already show promising potential for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cannabis pens similar to dab pens?
A dab pen, or wax pen, is a compact electronic device designed for an effortless experience, allowing users to load their preferred concentrates easily.
Cannabis pens, on the other hand, come preloaded with cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. While dab pens refer to vaporizers compatible with various cannabis extract consistencies, cannabis pens are specifically designed for vaporizing liquid extracts.
Are strain-specific THC vapes derived from specific cannabis strains?
Yes. Vape cartridges contain cannabis distillate, a concentrated form of cannabis oil. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract natural plant terpenes from the cannabis, resulting in a dense and nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling the cartridges, manufacturers reintroduce terpenes to enhance the flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses can vary based on each person’s unique endocannabinoid system. Effects are not universally predictable, and much remains to be discovered regarding how specific cannabinoids and terpenes influence personal responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
It’s challenging to provide a precise answer regarding the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen, as different manufacturers include varying amounts. For instance, a vape pen containing 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration could yield approximately 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering around 4mg of THC.
How does a THC pen work?
Prefilled THC oil cartridge- Connect the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery with a quick series of 3 or 5 button presses.
- An LED light will indicate that it’s operational, allowing you to press the button each time you inhale.
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber, and place a small amount of concentrate on the coils.
- Reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery with five consecutive button presses.
- Hold the button while inhaling and release it midway through for optimal results.