Cannabis and Cancer

Cannabis and Cancer Care: Benefits, Responsible Use and What the Research Says

Navigating a cancer diagnosis is one of the most difficult life challenges a person can face. Two-time cancer survivor and EO spokesperson Ethan Zohn says, “cancer is a disease that touches every part of you as a human being: mental, physical, social, spiritual. You’re always just looking for ways to make yourself feel better.”

Cancer impacts every area of a patient’s life – along with the uncertainty and anxiety that a diagnosis brings, the medical treatments can be painful and depleting, both physically and mentally. Cancer and related treatments often create an overwhelming number of symptoms, like chronic pain, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia and extreme stress. Conventional treatments may not always provide total relief from related symptoms. For many cancer patients, cannabis is an intriguing symptom management option. 

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Can Cannabis Improve Quality of Life for Cancer Patients?

For Zohn, the medications he was taking to combat his symptoms weren’t serving him and he “knew that cannabis had some therapeutic benefits.” But he didn’t know where to start and he wanted to know: can cannabis improve my quality of life? 

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Like so many facing cancer, his oncologist and medical providers weren’t able to educate him or provide guidance on how to use cannabis safely and effectively as part of his cancer treatments.  

In this article, we’ll explore how cannabis interacts with the body, examine scientific research on its efficacy for symptom management, review responsible ways to use cannabis and product considerations for cancer patients who are interested in using cannabis as part of their cancer care.

Important note: Cannabis does not treat or cure cancer. If you or someone you know is considering cannabis as part of their cancer care, it’s important to understand how it interacts with the body, potential effects and side effects and how to use it most responsibly. As with any medications, you should talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of using cannabis before including it in your treatment plan.  

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About EO

At EO, we’re working to help cannabis find its place as a responsibly provided, evidence-based medical treatment. We’re led by medical doctors, healthcare professionals and cannabis industry leaders, and our clinical team has deep experience in supportive oncology. We provide affordable, federally legal medical and wellness cannabis products.

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How Cannabis Interacts With the Body

Cannabis can help relieve or reduce symptoms of cancer and cancer-related treatments, especially chronic pain, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia and extreme stress. This is primarily caused by the interaction of cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body.

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Cannabinoids

Cannabis contains active compounds called cannabinoids – nearly 150 cannabinoids have been discovered to date. Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain, appetite, nausea and sleep. The most well-known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabinol (CBN). 

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The Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system is complex and rarely taught in medical school – think of the ECS as one of the body’s master regulators. It’s a neuroregulatory system that keeps physiologic functions in balance. Most importantly, it plays a crucial role in inflammation, immune response, pain detection, the sleep-wake cycle, mood, memory and appetite regulation. 

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It consists of three major components: naturally produced chemicals (self-made endocannabinoids acting as transmitters), the receptors those endocannabinoids bind to (located on neurons, immune cells, etc.), and the enzymes which synthesize and degrade these components.

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Cannabinoid Receptors

The biological effects of cannabinoids are controlled by dozens of cannabinoid receptors, the most relevant are receptors CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain, while CB2 receptors are located in immune cells throughout the body. If a cannabinoid binds to a CB1 receptor in the brain, it may help relieve pain. Cannabinoids that attach to CB2 receptors in the immune system may help relieve symptoms of inflammation.

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How Cannabinoids Work 

Cannabinoids like THC and CBD can regulate pain thresholds at the site of pain origin and can change how pain signals are transported to and received by the brain. Both THC and CBD affect CB1 and CB2 receptors directly or indirectly. 

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• THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, producing pain relief, appetite stimulation and anti-nausea effects.
• CBD interacts with CB2 receptors, modulating inflammation and offering pain relief without the psychoactive effects of THC.

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Potential in Cancer Symptom Management 

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Important Note: While cannabis can help to relieve or reduce cancer and treatment-related symptoms, cannabis does not cure cancer nor does it help treat cancer. Cannabis is not a substitute for provider prescribed medications. Patients should consult with their oncologist before using cannabis as part of their cancer care.

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Managing pain and other symptoms can be a significant challenge for cancer patients and their care team. This can lead to a trial and error approach to symptom management at the moment when the need for addressing symptoms is most acute.

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Nausea and Vomiting Relief

One of the most well-documented medical uses of cannabis is its potential to reduce nausea and vomiting, particularly those caused by chemotherapy. Research indicates that cannabis is a suitable adjuvant treatment to minimize chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). 

One study demonstrated a significant improvement in the control of CINV using a balanced THC:CBD cannabis extra. 83% of participants preferred cannabis to placebo and no serious adverse events were attributed to the cannabis extract.

For patients who cannot tolerate conventional anti-nausea medications, cannabis presents a viable alternative, often with fewer side effects and a more tolerable experience.

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Appetite Stimulation

Maintaining proper nutrition is essential for those battling cancer. Weight loss and loss of appetite is often caused by both the disease and side effects of treatment and can make it difficult for patients to get the nutrients they need to maintain strength and energy.

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THC has been widely studied for its appetite-stimulating properties. According to a systematic  review, cannabis has shown promise in improving appetite-related symptoms in people with cancer.

By binding to CB1 receptors in the brain, THC may enhance the release of hunger-related hormones, making food more appealing and enjoyable. For many cancer patients, appetite stimulation can mean the difference between maintaining their weight or suffering from severe malnutrition. Cannabis has been shown to help restore appetite and may reduce or eliminate the need for additional pharmaceuticals.

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Pain Management

Pain is one of the most debilitating yet symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments. While opioids have long been the standard for pain relief, they come with a range of risks, including tolerance buildup and dependence. Many patients are now seeking alternatives that provide relief with lower levels of concern over risks, adverse medication interaction or addiction.

Cannabis products, particularly THC dominant and balanced THC:CBD products, can provide pain relief, especially for neuropathic pain, a type of pain caused by nerve damage that is often difficult to treat with conventional medications. A review of various trials found that cannabis may alleviate neuropathic pain. 

By interacting with pain receptors in the brain and nervous system, THC can help reduce pain perception, providing relief for many cancer patients without the severe side effects typically associated with opioids.

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Sleep Support

Fatigue and insomnia are common among cancer patients. Stress, pain and discomfort can make it difficult to get restorative sleep, which is crucial for healing and maintaining overall well-being. While traditional sleep medications can be helpful, they often come with side effects such as grogginess or dependency concerns.

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A 2022 study found that cancer patients who used cannabis reported significant improvements in sleep quality and overall restfulness. Many patients report falling asleep more easily and staying asleep longer, decreased use of sleep medications and improved overall health and energy levels due to better sleep.

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What Does the Research Say?

Research indicates that cannabis can be effective in the management of cancer pain due to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of cannabinoids, which can reduce pain sensations directly or indirectly by interaction with receptors throughout the body. Moreover, patients with cancer pain whose symptoms could not be adequately relieved by traditional painkillers seem to respond well to supplemental cannabis treatment. 

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Cannabis has also shown potential as a pain reliever when used instead of, or together with, common anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., Advil, Motrin, etc.) as these medications all amplify the body’s production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins, which can be associated with risk to sensitive organs, particularly when taken consistently over long periods.

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Nausea and poor appetite in patients with cancer presents another challenge to the medical community. Fortunately, many patients report that cannabis relieves chemotherapy-induced nausea, and a growing body of clinical evidence supports these anecdotes. Recent research also indicates that patients prefer cannabis over other anti-nausea and anti-vomiting treatments.

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In addition, cannabis has shown potential as a tool to help stimulate appetite in patients with cancer. Appetite improved in randomized studies in patients with cancer. Small studies have shown both improved appetite and slowed weight loss. While research to date is promising, future studies will help to better understand and evaluate the use of cannabis in appetite stimulation.

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How to Use Cannabis Responsibly for Cancer Symptoms

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Today, about half of patients with cancer seek cannabis support for symptoms during treatment or as survivors. Most end up self-medicating, using sub-optimally (or even unsafely) and overspending on products. 

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Potential Risks

Current evidence suggests that managing and treating cancer pain with cannabis may be less habit-forming and non-lethal compared to traditional medical alternatives. Unlike many other medical treatments, cannabinoids don't suppress the receptors that control essential lung and heart function, so there's less risk of fatal overdose with cannabis.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that cannabis products contain cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which may interact with prescribed medications. Those interactions can be potentially dangerous, increase or decrease prescription medication efficacy and might have adverse effects as a result. Potential medication interactions are just one reason those considering cannabis as part of their cancer care should talk to their providers before using cannabis for symptom management. 

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Persistent or sustained excessive use of cannabis can also have long-term effects. Many people who consume cannabis daily or in large volumes report that they feel slower, think less clearly and recall information less effectively than when they consumed less or not at all.

Those using cannabis products with THC should refrain from driving, operating heavy machinery or taking part in any other activities in which intoxication might pose a health or safety risk to themselves or others.

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Product Options for Cancer Patients

THC and CBD are the compounds most associated with symptom management in cannabis. Products with higher THC concentrations may offer greater relief, however, THC is the compound most associated with psychoactive effects. Whereas, CBD-dominant products are preferred for managing symptoms and promoting relaxation without intoxication. Research suggests that higher CBD products may be more effective for sleep and anxiety. Some studies have indicated that a balanced THC:CBD ratio is most effective for pain management and as a sleep aid, while limiting intoxicating effects.

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Common Cannabis Products

There are a wide range of cannabis products available. Many products available today are geared towards recreational use and not medical use. These products tend to be high-dose THC products with intoxication as the primary function. Always consult with your provider and check product packaging to determine the dosage. 

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1. Edibles (Gummies, Capsules, Chocolates)
   
   • Long-lasting effects (4-8 hours)
   • Slow onset (30-90 minutes)
   • Best for long-term symptom management
2. Tinctures and Oils
   
   • Fast absorption under the tongue (15-45 minutes onset)
   • Easy to control dosage
   • Can be mixed with food or beverages
3. Inhalables (Inhalers, Vapes, Smoking)
   
   • Rapid relief (within minutes)
   • Shorter duration (2-4 hours)
   • Best for immediate nausea or pain relief
4. Topicals (Creams, Patches, Balms)
   
   • Targeted relief for localized pain
   • Non-psychoactive
   • Ideal for joint pain or neuropathy

Dosage and Safety Considerations

• Start with a low dose and increase gradually – research suggests to start with a dose of 5-10mg for CBD-dominant products and a dose of around 2.5mg for THC-dominant products
• Monitor effects, especially with THC
• Consult a clinician to determine proper dosage

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While smoking and vaping provide nearly instant onset of effects, they also deliver a slew of harmful substances to the body. What’s more, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory benefits are grossly inconsistent and the intoxicating effects can be overwhelming for those seeking the medical benefits of cannabis.

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Cannabis use is not without risk. It can cause side effects like fatigue, diarrhea, changes in appetite, changes in weight, dizziness and confusion, which can affect motor coordination and increase the risk of falls. 

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Considerations for Cancer Patients Using Cannabis

Potential Drug Interactions

Potential medication interactions are one reason cancer patients should discuss cannabis care with their healthcare team.

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• Cannabis may interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially altering their effectiveness
• THC can increase drowsiness when combined with sedatives
• CBD may inhibit liver enzymes that metabolize medications, impacting drug clearance

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Legal and Accessibility Concerns

• Medical cannabis is legal in many states, but laws vary. Check local regulations before purchasing. Note that most dispensaries provide products designed for recreational use even if marketed as medicinal. Check THC ratios and dosage amounts of products before purchasing. 
• Hemp-derived Delta-9 THC products are federally legal when THC levels in cannabis products are 0.3% or less by dry weight. While these products are federally legal, they are not available in all 50 states. Check local regulations to determine if these cannabis products are legal in your area.
• Purchase from reputable sources with lab-tested products to ensure safety.

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Conclusion

Cannabis offers significant benefits for cancer patients by relieving or reducing nausea, pain, appetite loss, stress and insomnia. While it does not cure cancer, scientific research supports its role in helping to manage symptoms associated with cancer and cancer-related treatments and can help improve quality of life. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers before use and choose products designed for medical use, not recreational use.

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Get to Know EO

Should cannabis be an option, we recommend you get to know EO, a provider of affordable, federally legal medical and wellness cannabis products for pain, stress, sleep and appetite. All EO products come in healthy forms (no smoking or vaping), include clear instructions and can be shipped right to your door. 

Most importantly, every EO product comes with free clinician-led guidance via phone or email. Whenever you have questions about how you can put cannabis to work most safely and effectively, the EO team will be there to guide you.

If you want to partner with our oncologist-led care team, EO offers personalized care plans to help you define and maintain your optimal cannabis regimen. Get product, dose and time of use recommendations based on your use goals, relevant aspects of your medical record and your daily schedule.

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The content on this page is for informational purposes. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided. Always consult a physician before deciding on the treatment of a medical condition.

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