Researchers recommend cannabis in cancer

Researchers recommend cannabis for cancer

23/02/2011

Scientists at the University of Alberta, Canada, recommend tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a drug used in cannabis, to support the treatment of cancer patients. In many cases, the cancer and therapy lead to a classificatory loss of appetite. A study showed that the active ingredient could help to stimulate the appetite again. Finally, patients need food intake for their powers, as the study authors argue.

Study showed appetite promotion
The research team led by Wendy Wismer of the University of Alberta undertook a comparative study to test the effects of THC. A total of 21 volunteers who underwent chemotherapy for severe cancer were enrolled in the study. The participants were divided into two equal groups. A total of 18 days, the subjects took preparations. While the first group received a drug with the drug THC, the second group received a placebo without drug. In the further course, the study participants had to complete a questionnaire. The questions focused in particular on enjoyment, hunger and eating habits. Seventy-three percent of cannabis patients said they preferred the food much better since starting therapy. 55 percent said that food tasted even better. In the placebo group, on the other hand, 30% and 10%, respectively, had a similar effect. The majority of the cannabis group stated that they were much more relaxed. Sleep disorders and sleep problems were also reduced.

Researchers recommend treatment
For a long time there were no effective means to rekindle the appetite of cancer patients. Based on the results of the study, the scientists now believe that physicians should fundamentally think about cannabis treatment for appetite stimulation. Finally, patients desperately need food intake to gather their strength for the physically demanding cancer therapies. It can be assumed that the cannabis treatment is free of side effects. There were no undesirable consequences in the experimental setup.

Many medical applications
The positive medicinal properties of THC have also been observed in other serious diseases. After completing a study at McGill University in Montreal, the researchers concluded that daily cannabis treatment relieves chronic nerve pain. Good results in the field of motion coordination could be measured in multiple sclerosis patients. Studies have shown that MS patients suffer less from pain. The active ingredient also had a relaxing effect on the muscles. (Sb)

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Picture: Susanne Schmich