Projections for the year 2023 indicated that 239,100 individuals in Canada would face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, reflecting a slight rise from the 233,900 cases documented in 2022.
Prostate cancer remains the leading cancer diagnosis among males, whereas breast cancer continues to be the most commonly identified cancer among females.
Even though cancer has existed for a long time, researchers are continually seeking new methods to improve patient care. A significant research initiative has been awarded a $3.2 million grant to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, including those found in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most research studies examine the effects of cannabis on chemotherapy, with limited focus on its impact on immunotherapy.
- Initial research suggests that cannabis can alleviate side effects of cancer therapy like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- cannabis can provide quick and consistent dosages to manage chemotherapy side effects.
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 grant will facilitate her research into the effects of cannabis on patients receiving immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a new frontier in cancer treatment by utilizing the immune system to fight against cancer. This complex defense system serves as the body’s robust protector against infections and other diseases.
Multiple reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and addressing sleep disturbances. However, Dr. Ashare remains cautious about the established signs that could indicate possible adverse effects stemming from the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of cancer treatment patients have turned to cannabis for symptom relief, both during and after therapy. Given the limited studies on its effects, Dr. Ashare aims to investigate how cannabis assists patients.
She and her team will explore the intricate relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy for patients. Their primary goal is to determine whether cannabis might influence the treatment’s effectiveness, either positively enhancing or potentially 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. The main aim of this study is to enhance understanding of the long-term benefits and possible risks of cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment process at each site will focus on 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy for cancer treatment. To ensure a comprehensive 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 prefer cannabis or edibles.
The secondary goal of the grant is to analyze the influence of neighborhood disadvantages on outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The research team brings together a diverse range of expertise in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance misuse. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research, as it may influence cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
While Dr. Ashare and her team embark on a new study on cannabis use and immunotherapy, additional research is also focusing on the effects of cannabis on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted trials to assess the efficacy of various cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly THC. The latter, along with other synthetic cannabinoids, has shown a moderate level of effectiveness in preventing chemotherapy-induced vomiting. Clinical studies suggest that using cannabis has a significant impact on suppressing chemotherapy-induced emesis.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press found that a significant percentage of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A smaller number of THC-treated patients reported no change (27%), and data for one patient were incomplete. Appetite loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment, leading to weight loss and malnutrition; however, THC may help patients enhance their intake.
Pain
Pain is a frequent symptom in individuals dealing with cancer. This sensation may stem from the cancer itself, various treatments, or other contributing factors.
A thorough review published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s effectiveness in aiding patients with pain management. The research indicates a consistent trend of reduced overall medication use among patients during quarterly check-ups, with a decrease in opioid consumption observed during the initial three 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 today. Consisting of a battery, a precision heating element, and a chamber for cannabis concentrates, cannabis offers versatility in consumption. Users can choose between disposable vape pens or refillable cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: There are CBD vape pens available in the market if you wish to avoid the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may lower health risks associated with carcinogen exposure, as highlighted in a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoked cannabis with those who vaped. The study revealed a significant decrease in blood levels of carbon monoxide in those who opted for vaping.
More Effective
A comprehensive study conducted by MAPS and California NORML showed a remarkable 46% conversion rate of THC to vapor when using a vape, compared to just 25% achieved with a traditional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the amount of each inhale can be difficult when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For those unfamiliar with smoking, excessive intake can be uncomfortable. A modern cannabis vape pen, with its adjustable settings, enables users to accurately control the dosage per inhalation.
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 focused on studying cannabis effects provide hope for cancer patients undergoing various medical treatments. They allow patients to discover cost-effective relief options while potentially reducing adverse effects linked to opioids or other medications.
As ongoing studies continue to examine the impact of cannabis on immunotherapy, initial findings already showcase 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 an easy experience with minimal effort. It allows users to load their preferred concentrates.
For cannabis pens, your cannabis vape extracts come conveniently preloaded in pods and cartridges. Essentially, when people mention dab pens, they refer to vaporizers adaptable to various cannabis extract consistencies. In contrast, the term cannabis pen refers to pens 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 form. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract the natural plant terpenes from cannabis, resulting in a dense and nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling the cartridges, manufacturers reintroduce terpenes to enhance the overall flavor profile of the liquid.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses can vary due to each person’s unique endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, and there remains much to learn about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes affect individual reactions.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
It is challenging to provide a definitive answer regarding the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen. Different manufacturers use varying amounts of THC in their products. For example, a vape pen containing 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration would yield around 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering approximately 4mg of THC.
How does a THC pen work?
Prefilled THC oil cartridge- Begin by connecting the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery by pressing the button quickly three to five times.
- An LED light will indicate that the device is operational; press the button each time you draw from the mouthpiece.
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber and carefully place a small amount of concentrate onto the coils.
- Once the concentrate is placed, 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 the inhalation.
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