Medical cannabis and cancer: research and facts

Disclaimer: It is important to note that the information provided does not constitute medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. We do not encourage self-medication or the use of medical cannabis for any medical condition. The decision to use medical cannabis should only be made in consultation with a doctor who can assess your medical history, carry out appropriate tests and make individual recommendations. Each case is unique and the use of medical cannabis should be based on medical protocols and recommendations, taking into account the benefits and risks for each individual patient.

 

Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is becoming increasingly popular among cancer patients. In recent years, there have been many studies that point to the potential therapeutic properties of marijuana. 

 

In this article, we will look at various aspects of the use of medical cannabis in the treatment of cancer.

 

Therapeutic properties: why marijuana is useful in oncology

 

 

Marijuana in medicine has a number of medicinal properties that can be useful in the fight against cancer. One of the most important medicinal properties of marijuana is its ability to relieve pain. Cancer patients, especially those in the later stages of the disease, often experience severe pain symptoms that are difficult to control with traditional pain management methods. Marijuana can help reduce the intensity of pain.

 

Medical cannabis can help cancer patients with the side effects of treatment such as nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is known to stimulate appetite, which may be helpful for patients who are losing weight due to treatment. Marijuana can help improve sleep and reduce anxiety, which is particularly important for patients suffering from cancer-related stress and depression.

 

Some compounds in marijuana may have anti-tumour properties. For example, animal studies have shown that CBD (cannabidiol) can help slow the growth and spread of tumours. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and potential benefits of cannabinoids in oncology.

 

Therapeutic potential: medical marijuana research in oncology

 

In recent decades, medical marijuana has received increasing attention from researchers, clinicians and the public. Research in this area is becoming an integral part of the search for new and effective treatments for cancer. Rapid advances in medical science and changing attitudes towards the use of marijuana as a potential medicine have led to a plethora of research aimed at unlocking its therapeutic properties.

 

 

Medicinal cannabis relieves chronic neuropathic pain

 

The Cannabis-based medicines for chronic neuropathic pain in adults review (2018) was conducted to assess the effectiveness of marijuana in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain in adult patients. This review, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, included data from several clinical trials. 

The main findings of the review confirmed that marijuana has the potential to relieve chronic neuropathic pain in adult patients. An analysis of the results showed that marijuana can provide a significant reduction in pain compared to placebo.

 

The study also evaluated the side effects associated with marijuana use and found that some patients may experience adverse effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth and mood changes. These side effects were usually mild to moderate and rarely led to discontinuation of treatment.

The study is relevant in the context of oncology, as cancer patients often experience chronic neuropathic pain caused by the tumour or its treatment. Marijuana and its constituents may help alleviate this pain.

 

Exploring therapeutic potential

 

Professor Lumir Gunas of the Hebrew University in Israel is investigating the therapeutic potential of marijuana in the treatment of various types of cancer. He argues that marijuana can have positive therapeutic effects on glioma (brain tumours), thyroid cancer, colon cancer and can also be used successfully for prostate and breast cancer.

Professor Gunas is conducting research to study the effect of cannabinoids, the active ingredients in marijuana, on tumour cells. 

 

His research confirms that cannabinoids can have anti-tumour effects by reducing the growth and migration of tumour cells, inducing their programmed death (apoptosis) and having an anti-inflammatory effect.

 

He also pointed out that cannabinoids may have anti-cancer properties by reducing the possibility of new tumours forming (angiogenesis) and inhibiting the metastasis of cancer cells. These properties of cannabinoids could be particularly useful in the fight against cancer, as metastasis is one of the main factors determining the prognosis of the disease.

 

How cannabis works: the mechanism of action 

 

The mechanism of action of medicinal cannabis in oncology is complex and not fully understood. Studies only suggest several possible mechanisms by which cannabis may have therapeutic effects.

 

One of the main mechanisms by which cannabis acts in oncology is through its interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system. This system consists of receptors located in various parts of the body, including the brain, immune system and peripheral organs. The two main components of marijuana, THC and CBD, interact with receptors on this system.

 

THC binds to CB1 receptors located in the central brain and nervous system. This interaction causes a change in the transmission of nerve signals, which can lead to pain relief and altered perception.

 

CBD, on the other hand, interacts with CB2 receptors, which are mainly found in the immune system and peripheral tissues. This can lead to a reduction in inflammation and the body's immune response.

 

The mechanisms of action of marijuana in the body are not fully understood and more research is needed to fully understand all of its effects and potential benefits in the treatment of cancer.

 

 

Market impact and cancer treatment

 

Medical marijuana offers new opportunities to develop innovative products and formulations that may be effective in the treatment of cancer. Strong interest and investment from manufacturers and research companies is leading to the active development of new forms of cannabis herb, more precise dosing and improved ways of delivering active ingredients.

 

The growing popularity of medical cannabis among cancer patients is contributing to the expansion of the global cannabis market. The growing demand for medical cannabis herb is leading to an increase in the number of legal markets where cannabis-based products are available. This is creating new opportunities for producers and retailers to offer a variety of products to meet the needs of cancer patients.

 

Growing scientific and clinical research into medical cannabis for cancer treatment is driving development and innovation in the field. Research into the mechanisms of action of cannabis on cancer cells and its effectiveness in treating different types of cancer is providing the basis for the development of new therapeutic approaches. This may lead to the development of new cannabis-based drugs that can be used in oncological practice.

 

The positive effects of therapeutic cannabis on cancer patients have a direct impact on sales, development and the global cannabis market. Recognition of its potential and the growing demand for medicinal cannabis is driving innovation and development in the field, which could benefit millions of people suffering from cancer.

 

Conclusion

 

Current research shows that marijuana can help cancer patients manage some of the symptoms and side effects associated with cancer treatment. It can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve appetite, reduce nausea and vomiting, and improve sleep quality. These properties of marijuana can significantly improve patients' comfort and quality of life and help them tolerate treatment better.

 

It should be noted that medical marijuana is not a cure-all and does not replace standard cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. It can be used as an adjunct to relieve certain symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.

 

The use of medical marijuana should be strictly controlled and under the guidance of a physician. The doctor must take into account the patient's medical history, type and stage of cancer, co-morbidities and potential drug interactions.

 

Medical cannabis is an interesting area of research and its use in cancer treatment may have significant clinical potential. However, further research, consultation with physicians and compliance with legal requirements are needed before its use to ensure that this approach is safe and effective for cancer patients.