Expectations for the year 2023 indicated that 239,100 individuals in Canada would face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, marking a slight 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 reported cancer among females.
Although cancer has persisted for quite some time, researchers are still investigating new ways to improve patient treatment. A research project received a significant grant of $3.2 million to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, such as those found in a cannabis, in enhancing immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most research studies look at the impact of cannabis on chemotherapy, with limited focus on its effects on immunotherapy.
- Initial studies indicate that cannabis can help manage side effects of cancer therapy, including nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to alleviate chemotherapy effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a respected psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, recently obtained a notable $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This grant will facilitate her research into the effects of cannabis on patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a breakthrough in cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system’s power to fight against cancer. This complex defense mechanism acts as the body’s primary protector against infections and diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits linked to cannabis use, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and addressing sleep-related issues. Dr. Ashare, however, remains cautious, acknowledging established signs that suggest possible negative effects from the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of cancer patients resorted to cannabis to alleviate symptoms during and after treatment. Research on its effects is limited, prompting Dr. Ashare to investigate its benefits for patients.
She and her team aim to explore the intricate relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy for patients. Their main goal is to determine whether cannabis may influence the treatment’s effectiveness, either positively enhancing or potentially diminishing it.
How Will the Study Work?
Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University are collaborating with UB in a joint effort to recruit participants for a 12-month observational study. This study’s primary aim is to deepen the understanding of the long-term benefits and potential risks of cannabis use among cancer patients receiving immunotherapy.
The recruitment process at each site will focus on 450 individuals currently undergoing immunotherapy for cancer treatment. To ensure a well-rounded perspective, half of the participants will be cannabis users, while the other half will abstain from cannabis use.
Unlike traditional randomized studies, participants will have the freedom to choose their cannabis products, whether they opt for vape pens 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 diverse 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 impact cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
While Dr. Ashare and her team initiate a new study on cannabis use and immunotherapy, further research is also focusing on cannabis’s influence on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have actively conducted trials to assess the effectiveness of different cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly focusing on THC. This compound and other synthetic cannabinoids have shown a modest effectiveness in preventing chemotherapy-induced vomiting. Clinical studies indicate that using cannabis can significantly suppress chemotherapy-induced emesis.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press revealed that a substantial portion of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A minority 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, but THC can help improve patients’ intake.
Pain
Pain is a prevalent symptom experienced by individuals with cancer. This sensation may stem from cancer itself, various treatments, or other contributing factors.
A thorough analysis published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights the effectiveness of cannabis in aiding pain management for patients. The research points to a consistent trend where patients’ overall medication intake decreased at each quarterly check-up, with opioid consumption declining during the initial three check-up sessions.
Why Use a cannabis for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a compact and efficient battery-powered device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, widely popular in the cannabis market. It consists of a battery, a precision heating element, and a dedicated cartridge or chamber for the cannabis concentrates. cannabis offers flexibility in consumption, allowing users to choose disposable vape pens or refill their cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available for those who wish to avoid the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may reduce health risks associated with carcinogens, as shown in a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoked cannabis to those who vaped. The research indicated a notable decrease in blood levels of carbon monoxide among those who vaped.
More Effective
A comprehensive study conducted by MAPS and California NORML found that vaping resulted in a remarkable 46% conversion of THC to vapor, compared to just 25% from a typical cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Accurately gauging the volume of each inhalation 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, allows users to finely control the amount per inhalation.
Weed Vapes for Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mLStrain: Pink KushTHC: 93-95%510 Thread: Fits any vape batteryEffect: Soothing, Calming, Relaxing
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mLStrain: Sour DieselTHC: 93-95%510 Thread: Fits any vape batteryEffect: Cerebral, Fast-acting, Stress relief, Mental clarity
OneStop – THC Distillate Disposable cannabis Pen
Amount: 3 mLStrain: Ghost Train HazeTHC: 93-95%RechargeableEffect: Euphoric, Energetic, Heightens creativity
Conclusion
Grants aimed at exploring the effects of cannabis present hopeful opportunities for cancer patients undergoing various treatments. They offer patients a cost-effective relief option while helping mitigate negative side effects linked to opioids or alternative medications.
As ongoing studies continue to examine cannabis’s influence on immunotherapy, preliminary findings already indicate promising outcomes for individuals receiving 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 with preloaded cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. Essentially, when people refer to dab pens, they mean vaporizers adaptable to 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 potent cannabis oil. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract the natural terpenes from cannabis, yielding 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 may vary due to the unique nature of each person’s endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, and much remains to be discovered regarding how specific cannabinoids and terpenes affect individual responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
It’s challenging to provide a precise answer regarding the amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen. Different manufacturers use varying quantities of THC in their products. For instance, a vape pen with 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration contains roughly 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering about 4mg of THC.
How does a THC pen work?
Prefilled THC oil cartridge- Connect the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery by pressing the button 3 or 5 times.
- An LED light will signal operation, allowing you to press the button each time you inhale 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 button presses.
- Hold the button while inhaling, releasing it midway through for an optimal experience.
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