Projections for 2023 indicated that 239,100 people in Canada would face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, marking a slight increase from the 233,900 cases recorded in 2022.
Prostate cancer continues to be the leading cancer diagnosis among men, while breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women.
Even though cancer has been a persistent issue, researchers are actively seeking new methods to improve patient care. A research project has received a significant $3.2 million grant to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, such as those found in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Insights:
- Most studies focus on the effects of cannabis on chemotherapy, with less emphasis on its impact on immunotherapy.
- Preliminary research indicates that cannabis can alleviate side effects of cancer therapies like nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to address chemotherapy-related effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Cannabis
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a distinguished psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has secured a noteworthy $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This funding will facilitate her exploration of the effects of cannabis on patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a cutting-edge approach in cancer treatment, utilizing the immune system to fight against cancer. This complex defense system serves as the body’s primary protector against infections and various diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and resolving sleep issues. However, Dr. Ashare is mindful of the documented risks associated with the interaction of cannabis and immunotherapy.
About 40% of those undergoing cancer treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief during and after their medical procedures. Given the limited studies on its effects, Dr. Ashare aims to investigate how it assists patients.
Her team plans to examine the intricate relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy, aiming to determine whether cannabis influences the treatment’s effectiveness, either positively or negatively.
Study Methodology
Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University are collaborating with UB to recruit participants for a 12-month observational study. This study primarily aims to enhance understanding of the long-term benefits and potential risks of cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment will target 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy for cancer treatment across various sites. To achieve a well-rounded view, half of the participants will be cannabis users, while the other half will abstain from cannabis use.
Unlike traditional randomized studies, participants will choose their cannabis products, whether they prefer to use cannabis or edibles.
The secondary goal of the grant is to examine how neighborhood disadvantages affect outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The research team comprises experts in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance use. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research due to its potential implications for managing cancer symptoms.
Effectiveness of Cannabis Vape Pens in Cancer Symptom Management
While Dr. Ashare and her team embark on this new study, additional research continues to focus on the effects of cannabis on cancer.
Nausea and Vomiting
Researchers have conducted trials to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly focusing on THC. This compound, along with other synthetic cannabinoids, has shown some effectiveness in preventing vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. Clinical studies suggest that using cannabis has a significant impact on mitigating chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Appetite Loss
A study published in Oxford University Press found that a considerable number of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. In contrast, a minority 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 that can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, but THC may help improve food intake.
Pain Management
Pain is a prevalent symptom in cancer patients, arising from the disease itself, treatments, or other factors.
A comprehensive review published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s effectiveness in aiding pain management for patients. The research shows a consistent decline in overall medication use among patients during quarterly assessments, with opioid consumption decreasing notably during the first three follow-up visits.
Advantages of Using a THC Vape Pen for Cancer Treatment Symptoms
A cannabis pen is a compact, battery-powered device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, widely available in today’s cannabis market. It consists of a battery, a heating element, and a cartridge or chamber for housing cannabis concentrates. THC vapes offer flexibility in consumption, allowing users to choose between disposable vape pens or refillable cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available if you wish to avoid the effects of THC.
Reduced Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may reduce health risks associated with carcinogen exposure, as indicated by a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoke cannabis to those who vape. The study found a significant decrease in blood levels of carbon monoxide in those who chose to vape.
Increased Effectiveness
A thorough examination by MAPS and California NORML revealed a notable 46% conversion of THC to vapor when using a vape, which is significantly higher than the 25% achieved by a traditional cannabis joint.
Controlled Dosage
Estimating the amount of each inhale can be challenging when using joints, bongs, or bowls. For newcomers to smoking, excessive intake can be overwhelming. Modern cannabis vape pens, with adjustable settings, allow users to finely control their dosage per inhalation.
Cannabis 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
Research grants focused on cannabis effects offer hope for cancer patients managing various treatments. They provide patients with a cost-effective relief option while helping to alleviate side effects associated with opioids or other medications.
As ongoing studies continue to explore cannabis’s impact on immunotherapy, early findings suggest promising results 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, allowing users to load their favorite concentrates.
Cannabis pens typically come preloaded with cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. Essentially, dab pens refer to vaporizers compatible with various cannabis extract consistencies, while cannabis pens are 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. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract natural plant terpenes, resulting in a dense, nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling cartridges, terpenes are reintroduced to enhance the flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Responses may vary based on each individual’s unique endocannabinoid system. The effects are not universally predictable, and much remains to be discovered about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes influence individual experiences.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
It is difficult to provide a precise answer regarding the amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen, as different manufacturers use varying concentrations. For instance, 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
- Connect the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery by pressing the button three or five times.
- An LED light will indicate that the device is ready for use; press the button when inhaling from the mouthpiece.
THC concentrates pens
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber, placing a small amount of concentrate onto the coils.
- Reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery with five consecutive button presses.
- Keep the button pressed while inhaling; for the best experience, release the button midway through inhalation.
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