Expectations 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 men, while breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women.
Although cancer has been a long-standing issue, researchers are actively seeking new methods to improve patient care. A research project was awarded a significant grant of $3.2 million to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, like 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 less emphasis on its impact on immunotherapy.
- Preliminary research shows that cannabis can alleviate side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to manage the side effects of chemotherapy.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a distinguished psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has recently obtained a noteworthy $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This funding will aid her research into the effects of cannabis on patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a cutting-edge approach in cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system’s power to fight cancer. This complex defense mechanism serves as the body’s primary protector against infections and various illnesses.
Numerous reports highlight the promising advantages linked to cannabis use, such as pain relief, mood enhancement, and assistance with sleep disorders. Dr. Ashare, however, remains cautious, acknowledging the documented signs that suggest possible adverse interactions between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of cancer treatment patients have turned to cannabis for symptom relief during and after their medical interventions. As studies on its effects are limited, Dr. Ashare aims to investigate how it can assist patients.
She and her team will examine the complex relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy for patients. Their main goal is to determine if cannabis could influence the efficacy of treatment, 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 the understanding of the long-term benefits and risks associated with cannabis use among cancer patients receiving immunotherapy.
The recruitment at each site will aim for 450 participants currently undergoing immunotherapy for cancer. To ensure a comprehensive overview, half of the participants will be cannabis users, while the other half will abstain from cannabis.
Unlike standard randomized trials, participants will have the freedom to choose their cannabis products, whether they prefer using cannabis or edibles.
The secondary aim of the grant is to investigate how neighborhood disadvantages affect outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The team leading this initiative brings together varied expertise in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance misuse. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research, which 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 about cannabis use and immunotherapy, additional research is also focused on cannabis’s effects on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted trials assessing the effectiveness of different cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly THC. This compound and other synthetic cannabinoids have shown some effectiveness in preventing chemotherapy-induced vomiting. Clinical studies suggest that using cannabis has a significant impact on alleviating chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press indicated that a considerable percentage of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A small proportion of THC-treated patients reported no change (27%), while data for one patient were incomplete. Appetite loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment, potentially leading to weight loss and malnutrition, but THC can help patients improve their intake.
Pain
Pain is a prevalent symptom for many individuals dealing with cancer, arising from the disease itself, various treatments, or other factors.
An extensive analysis published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s effectiveness in aiding pain management. The research indicates a consistent reduction in patients’ overall medication intake during each quarterly follow-up, with opioid use decreasing in the first three check-ups.
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, widely used in the cannabis market today. It consists of a battery, a precise heating element, and a cartridge or chamber for cannabis concentrates. cannabis provides versatile consumption options. Users can choose disposable vape pens or fill their cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available in the market for those who wish to avoid the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Inhaling cannabis through vaping may lessen health risks associated with exposure to carcinogens, as evidenced by a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoked cannabis with those who vaped. The study found a significant decrease in blood carbon monoxide levels among those who opted for vaping.
More Effective
A comprehensive study by MAPS and California NORML revealed a remarkable 46% conversion of THC to vapor when using a vape, compared to just 25% achieved with a standard cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the quantity of each inhale can be challenging when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For individuals unfamiliar with smoking, excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, featuring adjustable settings, allows users to finely control their inhalation volume.
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 focused on studying cannabis effects offer hope for cancer patients navigating various treatments. They provide patients with a cost-effective relief option while helping to reduce side effects associated with opioids or other medications.
As studies continue to explore cannabis’s influence on immunotherapy, early results 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 a simple experience with minimal effort. It allows users to load their chosen concentrates.
In contrast, cannabis pens come preloaded with cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. When discussing dab pens, individuals refer to vaporizers compatible with various cannabis extract consistencies, while cannabis pens are specifically for vaporizing liquid extracts.
Are strain-specific THC vapes derived from specific cannabis strains?
Yes. Vape cartridges contain cannabis distillate, a potent cannabis oil form. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract natural terpenes from the cannabis, resulting in a dense and nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling the cartridges, manufacturers reintroduce terpenes to enhance the liquid’s flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses can vary due to the unique nature of each person’s endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, and there remains much to learn about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes affect individual responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
Providing a precise answer regarding the exact THC amount in a cannabis vape pen is challenging. Different manufacturers include varying THC levels in their products. For example, a vape pen with 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration could yield around 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering approximately 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 quickly three to five times.
- An LED light will indicate operational status, allowing you to press the button each time you draw from the mouthpiece.
THC concentrates pens
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber, then carefully place a small amount of concentrate on the coils.
- After placing the concentrate, reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery with five consecutive button presses.
- Keep the button pressed while inhaling, and for the best experience, release the button midway through inhalation.
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