Predictions for 2023 estimate that 239,100 people in Canada will face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, a slight rise from the 233,900 cases noted in 2022. Herbal Dispatch Canada
Prostate cancer continues to be the leading cancer diagnosis for men, while breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women.
Even though cancer has been a persistent issue, researchers are actively seeking new ways to improve patient care. A significant research project has been awarded a grant of $3.2 million to study the potential benefits of cannabis-derived compounds, like those found in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- The majority of research focuses on the impact of cannabis on chemotherapy, with limited studies on its effects on immunotherapy.
- Early findings indicate that cannabis can help alleviate side effects associated with cancer treatment, including nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
- cannabis can provide quick and precise dosages to manage chemotherapy symptoms.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a respected psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has recently obtained a notable $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This funding will aid her research into the effects of cannabis on patients receiving immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a groundbreaking approach in cancer treatment, utilizing the immune system to fight cancer. This complex defense mechanism serves as the body’s protector against infections and diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis, such as pain relief, mood enhancement, and improvement in sleep disorders. However, Dr. Ashare remains cautious, acknowledging the documented risks that could arise from the interaction of cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of patients undergoing cancer treatment turn to cannabis for symptom relief during and after treatment. Given the limited studies on its effects, Dr. Ashare aims to explore its benefits for patients.
She and her team intend to investigate the nuanced relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy for patients. Their goal is to determine whether cannabis could influence the treatment’s efficacy, either positively or negatively.
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 benefits and possible risks associated with cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment at each site will aim for 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy for cancer. To gain a well-rounded view, half of the participants will use cannabis, while the other half will abstain.
Unlike traditional randomized studies, participants will have the freedom to choose their cannabis products, whether they prefer using cannabis or edibles.
The secondary goal of the grant is to examine how neighborhood disadvantages affect outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The team leading this initiative brings together a wide range of expertise in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance use. 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 are embarking on a new study regarding cannabis and immunotherapy, additional research continues to focus on cannabis’s effects on cancer symptoms.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have been conducting trials to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in alleviating vomiting, particularly THC. This compound, along with other synthetic cannabinoids, has shown a moderate effectiveness in preventing vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. Clinical studies suggest that smoking or using cannabis has a significant effect on reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press indicated that a substantial 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 was incomplete. Appetite loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment, which may lead to weight loss and malnutrition, but THC has the potential to enhance patients’ food intake.
Pain
Pain is often a common symptom for individuals dealing with cancer. This discomfort may stem from the cancer itself, various treatments, or other contributing factors.
A comprehensive study featured in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights the role of cannabis in aiding pain management for patients. Research illustrates a consistent trend of reduced overall medication use among patients during quarterly evaluations, with a noted decline in opioid consumption during the first three follow-ups.
Why Use 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 today’s cannabis market. It generally consists of a battery, a precise heating element, and a chamber for cannabis concentrates. cannabis offers flexibility in how cannabis is consumed, allowing users to choose between disposable vape pens or filling their own cartridges with preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available if you prefer to avoid the effects associated with THC cannabis extract.
Reduces Carcinogens
Inhaling cannabis through vaping may present a lower risk of health issues linked to carcinogens, as shown in a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoke cannabis with those who vape. The research demonstrated a significant reduction in blood carbon monoxide levels among those who opted for vaping.
More Effective
A thorough examination by MAPS and California NORML revealed an impressive 46% conversion of THC to vapor when using a vape, which is notably higher than the 25% conversion achieved by a traditional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the volume of each inhale can be difficult when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For inexperienced users, excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with its adjustable settings, allows users to carefully control the dosage per inhalation.
Weed Vapes for Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mL
Strain: cannabis
THC: 93-95%
510 Thread: Compatible with any vape battery
Effect: Soothing, Calming, Relaxing
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mL
Strain: cannabis
THC: 93-95%
510 Thread: Compatible with any vape battery
Effect: Cerebral, Fast-acting, Stress relief, Mental clarity
OneStop – THC Distillate Disposable cannabis Pen
Amount: 3 mL
Strain: cannabis
THC: 93-95%
Rechargeable
Effect: Euphoric, Energetic, Heightens creativity
Conclusion
Grants focused on studying the effects of cannabis provide hope for cancer patients undergoing various treatments. These grants enable patients to find affordable relief options while also reducing the negative side effects linked to opioids or other medications.
As research continues to investigate cannabis’s role in immunotherapy, initial results already show promising outcomes for individuals 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 easy use. It allows users to load their preferred concentrates effortlessly.
In contrast, cannabis pens typically come with preloaded cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. Essentially, when people mention dab pens, they refer to vaporizers adaptable for various cannabis extract consistencies, while cannabis pens are specifically made 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 the natural terpenes from the cannabis, resulting in a dense and nearly flavorless liquid. Terpenes are then reintroduced before filling the cartridges to enhance flavor.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual reactions can vary due to each person’s unique endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, with much still to learn about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes influence individual responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
It is difficult to provide a precise answer regarding the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen, as different manufacturers use varying concentrations. For instance, a vape pen containing 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- Begin by connecting the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery with a quick series of 3 or 5 button presses.
- A reassuring LED light will indicate that the device is ready; press the button to draw from the mouthpiece.
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber and carefully 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; for the best experience, release the button midway through inhalation.
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