Projections 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.
Among males, prostate cancer remains the leading cancer diagnosis, while breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer among females.
Despite the longstanding presence of cancer, researchers are actively seeking new ways to improve patient treatment. A significant research project has been awarded a $3.2 million grant to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, such as those in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- The majority of research studies focus on the effects of cannabis on chemotherapy, with less emphasis on its impact on immunotherapy.
- Initial findings suggest that cannabis can alleviate side effects of cancer therapy, including nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
- cannabis can provide quick and reliable doses to manage chemotherapy-related effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a distinguished psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has recently secured a significant $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This grant will fund her research into the effects of cannabis on patients receiving immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a groundbreaking approach in cancer treatment, harnessing the immune system to fight against cancer. This complex defense mechanism acts as the body’s primary protector against infections and various diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, such as pain relief, mood improvement, and addressing sleep issues. Dr. Ashare is careful to acknowledge the documented signs that suggest possible negative effects arising from the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of individuals undergoing cancer treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief, both during and after their treatments. With limited studies available on its effects, Dr. Ashare aims to determine how cannabis may assist patients.
She and her team will investigate the complex relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy for patients. Their main goal is to understand whether cannabis could positively enhance or potentially reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
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 deepen the understanding of the long-term benefits and risks of cannabis use among cancer patients receiving immunotherapy.
The recruitment strategy at each site will focus on 450 participants currently undergoing immunotherapy for cancer. To provide a well-rounded perspective, half of the participants will be cannabis users, while the other half will abstain from cannabis.
In contrast to traditional randomized studies, 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 examine how neighborhood disadvantages impact outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The research team comprises 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 could significantly influence cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Symptoms?
While Dr. Ashare and her team are beginning a new study on cannabis use and immunotherapy, additional research is also focusing on cannabis’s effects on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted trials to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly focusing on THC. THC and other synthetic cannabinoids have shown moderate success in preventing vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy. Clinical studies suggest that using a cannabis can effectively suppress chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press found that a notable percentage of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A small fraction of THC-treated patients showed no change (27%), while some data was incomplete. Loss of appetite is a common side effect of cancer treatments, which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition; however, THC can help improve intake.
Pain
Pain is a common symptom for those battling cancer. This discomfort can result from cancer itself, treatments, or other factors.
A thorough analysis published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s effectiveness in aiding patients with pain management. The research indicates a consistent reduction in overall medication use among patients during quarterly check-ups, including a decline in opioid consumption over the initial three sessions.
Why Use a cannabis for Treating Cancer Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a portable and efficient battery-operated device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, which are currently popular in the cannabis market. Comprised of a battery, a precise heating element, and a cartridge or chamber for cannabis concentrates, THC vapes offer flexibility in consumption. Users can choose between disposable vape pens or refillable cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available if you prefer not to experience the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may reduce health risks associated with carcinogen exposure, as shown in a 2007 study that compared individuals smoking cannabis to those who opted for vaping. The study found a significant decrease in blood carbon monoxide levels among those who vaped.
More Effective
Research conducted by MAPS and California NORML revealed a substantial 46% conversion rate of THC to vapor when using a vape, surpassing the 25% achieved with a traditional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the amount of each inhalation can be tricky when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For those unfamiliar with smoking, excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with its adjustable settings, allows users to finely control the amount they inhale.
Weed Vapes for Managing Cancer 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 dedicated to researching cannabis effects offer hope for cancer patients facing diverse medical treatments. They enable patients to discover cost-effective relief options while simultaneously reducing side effects associated with opioids or alternative medications.
As studies continue to investigate cannabis’s impact on immunotherapy, initial findings 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 ease of use. It allows users to load their favorite concentrates effortlessly.
In contrast, cannabis pens come preloaded with cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. While dab pens refer to vaporizers that accommodate various cannabis extract consistencies, 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 natural terpenes, resulting in a concentrated and nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling cartridges, manufacturers reintroduce terpenes to enhance the liquid’s flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses may vary due to each person’s unique endocannabinoid system. The effects felt are not universally predictable, and much remains to be learned about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes affect individual responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
Providing an exact answer regarding THC amounts in a cannabis vape pen is challenging, as different manufacturers use varying concentrations. For instance, a vape pen containing 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
- Attach the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery with a quick series of 3 or 5 button presses.
- A reassuring LED light will indicate operational status for you to press the button while drawing from the mouthpiece.
THC concentrates pens
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber and carefully place a small amount of concentrate onto 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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