Cachexia is a multifaceted condition characterized by persistent muscle loss that cannot be entirely reversed through conventional nutritional support, resulting in decreasing functionality. It may be masked by excess weight, obesity, edema, or tumor mass. Anorexia, which denotes a diminished appetite, is frequently observed in cancer patients, although its precise prevalence remains uncertain.
When cachexia primarily results from reduced intake, it is referred to as cancer-related cachexia and anorexia syndrome (CACS), encompassing muscle wasting, lipolysis, and decreased food consumption, in contrast to simple cachexia.
Some researchers suggest that cannabis from Green Society Canada could enhance appetite and alleviate nausea among cancer patients.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- THC capsules may assist cancer patients in consuming more and feeling less ill, thereby enhancing their quality of life.
- Studies indicate that cannabis influences brain cells responsible for hunger, potentially aiding appetite-related issues in cancer patients and others.
- THC capsules provide accurate, convenient, discreet, and enduring effects, making them suitable for medical marijuana users who prefer not to smoke.
Cancer Cachexia and Anorexia Syndrome
Cachexia is a condition defined by significant weight loss due to the depletion of muscle and fat, commonly observed in patients with severe conditions such as heart failure, HIV/AIDS, COPD, kidney failure, and particularly cancer.
This often occurs alongside anorexia, which leads to at least a 5% reduction in body weight due to decreased appetite. Together, they constitute cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome (CACS).
Patients with cancer who are hospitalized frequently exhibit poor dietary intake, with nearly half being malnourished or at risk. Cachexia not only reduces patients’ quality of life but also complicates treatment and can hasten the end of life. Its prevalence significantly increases as death approaches, with cachexia identified as a primary cause of death in over 20% of instances.
Despite its widespread occurrence, CACS often goes unrecognized and untreated in clinical environments due to unclear definitions, diagnostic criteria, classification systems, and approved treatments. Clinicians evaluate a patient’s nutritional status using various metrics such as body weight, skin fold thickness, and mid-arm circumference, though body weight is frequently the primary measure, often relying on inappropriate reference weights.
Treatment
The most straightforward approach to address anorexia is to enhance nutrition; however, evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. For cancer patients, nutritional care encompasses:
- Dietary Counseling
- Oral Supplements
- Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition
Nonetheless, success can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Pharmacological Approaches
Currently, no verified medications exist for treating Cancer Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome (CACS), although some drugs are used off-label or are undergoing clinical trials. These medications can be categorized into four groups based on their mechanisms:
- Appetite Stimulants
- Cytokine Modulators
- Anabolic Agents
- Combination Therapies
Additionally, megestrol acetate, a progestin, is utilized separately due to its unclear mechanism of action.
Cannabis in Medicine
The cannabinoid could enhance the lives of cancer patients and inspire future treatments, offering hope for cachexia patients, a condition characterized by appetite loss and malnutrition. It provides relief without intoxicating effects, presenting a potential remedy for these patients.
Different cannabis formulations with varying effects are available, including inhaled THC for rapid onset and short-lived effects and orally ingested THC for slower absorption and prolonged effects. Sublingual administration provides a quick onset lasting for 2 to 4 hours.
Clinical Trial
A study conducted by researchers from Israel and the United States assessed how cannabis pills affect CACS in advanced cancer patients. This discovery significantly impacts the treatment of appetite disorders experienced by cancer patients, individuals with anorexia, and potentially those with obesity.
Methods
They employed cannabis capsules containing two types of oil-based compounds, intending to treat participants with 10 mg doses twice daily for six months, which included 9.5 mg of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 0.5 mg of cannabidiol (CBD).
If participants experienced side effects, they reduced the dose to 5 mg twice daily (4.75 mg THC and 0.25 mg CBD). At each doctor’s visit, they weighed the participants. The primary goal was for participants to gain at least 10% more weight than their initial weight.
Results
Out of 24 patients who agreed to participate, 17 began treatment with cannabis capsules. However, only 11 continued taking the capsules for over two weeks. By the end of the study, 3 out of 6 patients who completed the treatment achieved the primary goal of gaining at least 10% more weight, while the weight of the remaining three patients remained unchanged.
Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a marker of inflammation, decreased following the treatment. Patients reported improved appetite, mood, and reduced pain and fatigue.
Despite various challenges, this initial study demonstrated a weight gain of 10% or more in 3 out of 17 patients (17.6%) taking daily doses of 5 mg once or twice without significant side effects. These results advocate for conducting a larger, more controlled study on cannabis capsules in patients with CACS.
Cannabis Capsules
If you enjoy edibles, cannabis flowers, or classic pre-rolls, discovering new methods to enjoy cannabis is always thrilling.
THC capsules are among the latest innovations in the cannabis market. These capsules contain a precise dose of THC, derived from concentrated cannabis extract combined with a neutral oil. They function as cannabis tinctures in capsule form (also referred to as cannabis oil capsules or THC pills).
Key Components
- Cannabis Extract: This concentrated extract is obtained from the cannabis plant using a method selected by the manufacturer for extraction. THC capsules are abundant in THC, although some may solely contain CBD or varying ratios of CBD to THC.
- Neutral Oil Suspension: THC is not soluble in water, so it is suspended in an oil for optimal absorption by the body. The most commonly used oils are medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oils), aiding digestion and absorption.
Benefits
Patients using medical marijuana and recreational users can find advantages in cannabis capsules. They provide:
- Convenience: Consuming a cannabis capsule is as straightforward as taking any other oral supplement. Just swallow it with water, hassle-free.
- Precision Dosage: For medical users, precise control over cannabinoid intake is essential for achieving desired effects. With THC capsules, each dose is measured, removing uncertainty.
- Smoke-Free Option: Many prefer to avoid smoking or vaping for personal reasons or health concerns. THC capsules present a smoke-free alternative, suitable for individuals with respiratory issues.
- Longer Effects: Capsules typically provide longer-lasting effects compared to smoking or vaping, making them ideal for sustained relief from symptoms over several hours.
Cannabis Capsules vs. Other Forms of Medicinal Cannabis
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of capsules?
One additional benefit of cannabis pills/capsules is their versatility – formulators can develop various capsule types for consumers to select from, allowing you to find capsules that align with your personal preference.
- 1:1 Capsules: These capsules provide an equal ratio of THC to CBD in each dose. They can be created with sativa or indica strains and come in various concentrations like 5 mg, 20 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg cannabinoids per capsule.
- 3:1 Capsules: These capsules deliver a ratio of 3 parts CBD to 1 part THC in each dose.
- THC Capsules: These capsules solely contain THC, with varying concentrations per capsule, derived from different Sativa or Indica strains to provide specific effects.
- CBD Capsules: These contain only CBD, without THC, thus avoiding mind-altering effects. They cater to individuals seeking the advantages of CBD alone.
How do capsules interact with your body?
- The outer shell of the capsule disintegrates in your digestive tract once ingested.
- The contents of the capsule are absorbed into the bloodstream.
- THC (and other cannabinoids) are metabolized in the liver.
How long does it take for cannabis capsule effects to kick in?
Typically, THC capsules take about 90 minutes to start exhibiting effects. The effects can last from 5 to 12 hours, gradually diminishing in intensity. In comparison to inhaled cannabis, capsule effects tend to last approximately twice as long on average.
However, experiences may vary based on factors such as age, medications, personal cannabis tolerance, and cannabinoid composition. Some users may also observe different effects based on specific cannabinoids present, possibly due to the “entourage effect.”
How to mail order marijuana?
To mail order recreational cannabis, locate a trustworthy delivery service online that offers the best quality cannabis products. After selecting your products, opt for “order cannabis delivery,” and a delivery driver will securely bring your order. Ensure the service is reputable for a smooth purchasing experience.
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