Predictions for 2023 indicated that 239,100 people in Canada would face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, representing a modest rise from the 233,900 cases recorded in 2022.
Prostate cancer remains the leading cancer diagnosis among males, while breast cancer continues to be the most commonly detected cancer in females.
Even as cancer persists, researchers are actively seeking new methods to improve patient treatment. Recently, a significant grant of $3.2 million was awarded to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, such as those found in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most studies examine the role of cannabis in chemotherapy, with limited focus on its effects on immunotherapy.
- Early research suggests that cannabis can alleviate side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to manage chemotherapy side effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a distinguished psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has recently obtained a significant $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This funding will facilitate her research into the impact of cannabis on patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a frontier in cancer treatment, harnessing the immune system to combat the formidable challenge of cancer. This complex defense mechanism acts as the body’s primary protector against infections and diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and improved sleep. However, Dr. Ashare remains mindful of the proven risks that may arise from the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of cancer treatment patients have turned to cannabis for symptom relief, both during and after their treatments. Due to the limited studies available, Dr. Ashare aims to investigate how cannabis can benefit patients.
She and her team plan to explore the intricate dynamics between cannabis and immunotherapy for patients. Their main goal is to determine whether cannabis influences the efficacy of the treatment, either by enhancing or reducing it.
How Will the Study Work?
Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University are collaborating with UB to recruit participants for a 12-month observational study. This study aims to enhance understanding of the long-term advantages and potential risks associated with cannabis use among cancer patients receiving immunotherapy.
The recruitment at each site will focus on 450 participants currently undergoing immunotherapy for cancer. To provide a comprehensive perspective, half of the participants will be cannabis users while the other half will abstain from cannabis.
Unlike traditional randomized studies, participants retain the freedom to choose their preferred cannabis products, whether they prefer cannabis or edibles.
The secondary aim of the grant is to examine how neighborhood disadvantages affect outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The team behind this initiative comprises 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 and her team embark on a new study regarding cannabis use and immunotherapy, there are also ongoing studies focusing on the effects of cannabis on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted trials to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in alleviating vomiting, with a particular focus on THC. Both THC and other synthetic cannabinoids have shown moderate efficacy in preventing vomiting induced by cancer chemotherapy. Clinical trials suggest that smoking or using cannabis has a significant impact on reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press found that a substantial proportion of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A smaller percentage of THC-treated patients showed no change (27%), while data for one patient were incomplete. Appetite loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment, leading to weight loss and malnutrition; however, THC can help improve patients’ intake.
Pain
Pain is often a prevalent symptom for individuals facing cancer. This discomfort can stem from the cancer itself, various treatments, or other contributing factors.
A comprehensive review published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s effectiveness in assisting patients with pain management. The research indicates a consistent decrease in overall medication use among patients during quarterly follow-ups, with a decline in opioid consumption noted during the initial three sessions.
Why Use cannabis for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a compact, efficient battery-powered device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates popular in the cannabis market today. Comprising a battery, a precise heating element, and a designated chamber for cannabis concentrates, cannabis offers flexibility in use. Users can choose between disposable vape pens or fill their own cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available on the market for those who wish to avoid the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Inhaling cannabis through vaping may lower health risks associated with carcinogens. A 2007 study comparing individuals who smoked cannabis with those who opted for vaping revealed a significant reduction in blood carbon monoxide levels among vapers.
More Effective
A comprehensive study by MAPS and California NORML indicated a remarkable 46% conversion rate of THC to vapor with a vape, compared to just 25% with a traditional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the volume of each inhale can be challenging when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For those unfamiliar with smoking, excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with adjustable settings, empowers users to precisely control their inhalation volume.
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 studying the effects of cannabis provide hope for cancer patients navigating various medical treatments. They offer patients a cost-effective relief option while reducing adverse effects related to opioids or other medications.
As ongoing studies continue to explore cannabis’s effects on immunotherapy, initial findings already suggest promising outcomes for those 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 ease of use, allowing users to load their preferred concentrates.
In contrast, cannabis pens come preloaded with cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. Essentially, dab pens refer to vaporizers that accommodate various cannabis extract consistencies, while 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 potent cannabis oil. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract natural plant terpenes, resulting in a dense, nearly flavorless liquid. Before cartridges are filled, terpenes are reintroduced to enhance the flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses may vary due to the unique characteristics of each person’s endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, and much remains to be discovered about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes influence individual reactions.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
Providing a precise answer regarding the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen is challenging. Different manufacturers use varying amounts of THC in their products. For instance, a vape pen with 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration would 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 series of 3 or 5 button presses.
- An LED light will indicate operational status, prompting you to press the button when drawing from the mouthpiece.
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber and place a small amount of concentrate onto the coils.
- Reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery with five consecutive button presses.
- Hold the button while inhaling, releasing it midway for an optimal experience.
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