Cachexia is a multifaceted condition characterized by persistent muscle loss that cannot be completely mitigated through standard nutritional support, resulting in diminished functionality. This condition may be masked by excess weight, obesity, edema, or tumor mass. Anorexia, which denotes a reduced appetite, is often observed in cancer patients, though its precise prevalence remains uncertain.
When cachexia is primarily due to decreased intake, it is referred to as cancer-related cachexia and anorexia syndrome (CACS), which involves muscle wasting, lipolysis, and reduced food intake, distinguishing it from simple cachexia.
Some researchers suggest that cannabis from Speed Greens Canada could enhance appetite and alleviate nausea in cancer patients.
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Key Takeaways:
- THC capsules may assist cancer patients in increasing their food intake and reducing nausea, thereby improving their quality of life.
- Studies indicate that cannabis influences brain cells that regulate hunger, potentially aiding appetite issues in cancer patients and others.
- THC capsules are precise, convenient, discreet, and long-lasting, making them ideal for medical marijuana users who prefer not to smoke.
Cancer Cachexia and Anorexia Syndrome
Cachexia is identified by substantial weight loss due to the depletion of muscle and fat, frequently observed in patients suffering from advanced illnesses like heart failure, HIV/AIDS, COPD, kidney failure, and notably, cancer.
This condition is usually accompanied by anorexia, which leads to at least a 5% reduction in body weight. Together, they constitute cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome (CACS).
Hospitalized cancer patients often experience inadequate dietary intake, with nearly half being malnourished or at risk. Cachexia not only compromises the quality of life for patients but also impedes treatment effectiveness and may hasten the end of life. Its prevalence escalates sharply as death approaches, with cachexia identified as the primary cause of death in over 20% of instances.
Despite its widespread occurrence, CACS frequently goes unnoticed and untreated in clinical environments due to vague definitions, inadequate diagnostic criteria, classification systems, and the absence of approved therapies. Clinicians evaluate a patient’s nutritional state using various metrics like body weight, skin fold thickness, and mid-arm circumference, though body weight is often the primary measure, typically relying on inappropriate reference weights.
Treatment
The most apparent approach to managing anorexia is to enhance nutrition, yet evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. For cancer patients, nutritional care encompasses:
- Dietary Counseling
- Oral Supplements
- Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition
However, the success of these interventions varies based on the type and stage of cancer.
Pharmacological Approaches
Currently, there are no established medications specifically for treating Cancer Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome (CACS), though some drugs are utilized off-label or are undergoing clinical trials. These medications are categorized into four groups based on their actions:
- Appetite Stimulants
- Cytokine Modulators
- Anabolic Agents
- Combination Therapies
Moreover, megestrol acetate, a progestin, is used independently due to its unclear mechanism of action.
Cannabis in Medicine
The cannabinoid could enhance the lives of cancer patients and pave the way for future treatments. This offers hope for patients suffering from cachexia, a condition characterized by appetite loss and malnutrition. It provides relief without intoxicating effects, positioning it as a potential remedy for these patients.
A variety of cannabis formulations with distinct effects are accessible, including inhaled THC for rapid onset and short duration, and orally ingested THC for slower absorption and prolonged effects. Sublingual administration provides rapid onset that lasts for 2 to 4 hours.
Clinical Trial
A study conducted by researchers from Israel and the United States evaluated how cannabis pills affect CACS in advanced cancer patients. This research has significant implications for treating appetite disorders, such as those experienced by cancer patients, individuals with anorexia, and potentially obesity.
Methods
Researchers utilized cannabis capsules containing two types of oil-based compounds. They aimed to treat participants with 10 mg doses twice daily for six months, comprising 9.5 mg of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 0.5 mg of cannabidiol (CBD).
If participants experienced side effects, the dose was reduced to 5 mg twice daily (4.75 mg THC and 0.25 mg CBD). Participants were weighed at each doctor visit, with the primary goal being for them to gain at least 10% more weight than their baseline.
Results
Out of 24 patients who consented to participate, 17 commenced treatment with cannabis capsules. However, only 11 continued taking the capsules beyond two weeks. By the conclusion of the study, 3 out of 6 patients who completed the treatment met the primary objective of gaining at least 10% more weight, while the other three patients maintained their weight.
Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), an inflammation marker, decreased following treatment. Participants reported improved appetite and mood, along with reduced pain and fatigue.
Despite various challenges, this preliminary study indicated a 10% or greater weight gain in 3 out of 17 patients (17.6%) taking daily doses of 5 mg without significant side effects. These findings reinforce the need for larger, more controlled studies on cannabis capsules in patients with CACS.
Cannabis Capsules
If you enjoy edibles, cannabis flower, or classic pre-rolls, exploring new methods to experience cannabis is always thrilling.
THC capsules represent one of the latest innovations in the cannabis market. These capsules consist of cannabis pills containing a specific dose of THC, derived from a concentrated cannabis extract and a neutral oil. They are akin to 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 chosen by the manufacturer for extraction. THC capsules are abundant in THC, though some may solely contain CBD or various CBD/THC ratios.
- Neutral Oil Suspension: THC is not soluble in water, thus it is suspended in oil for optimal absorption by the body. Common oils utilized include medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oils), which facilitate digestion and absorption.
Benefits
Medical marijuana patients and recreational users can derive advantages from cannabis capsules. They provide:
- Convenience: Consuming a cannabis capsule is as straightforward as any other oral supplement. Simply swallow it with water, no fuss.
- Precision Dosage: For medical users, precise control over cannabinoid intake is crucial for achieving desired effects. With THC capsules, each dose is accurately measured, removing guesswork.
- Smoke-Free Option: Many individuals prefer to avoid smoking or vaping due to personal choices or health concerns. THC capsules present a smoke-free alternative, suitable for those with respiratory issues.
- Longer Effects: Capsules typically deliver longer-lasting effects compared to smoking or vaping, making them ideal for sustained symptom relief 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?
Another benefit of cannabis pills/capsules is their versatility – manufacturers can create various capsule types for consumers to select from. This allows you to find capsules that cater to your personal preferences.
- 1:1 Capsules: These capsules provide an equal ratio of THC to CBD in each dosage. They can be made with sativa or indica strains and are available 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 contain THC only, with varying concentrations per capsule, made from different Sativa or Indica strains to offer specific effects.
- CBD Capsules: These contain only CBD, without THC, thus they do not induce mind-altering effects. They are designed for those seeking the benefits of CBD alone.
How do capsules interact with your body?
- The capsule’s outer shell disintegrates in your digestive tract after consumption.
- The contents of the capsule are absorbed into the bloodstream.
- THC (and other cannabinoids) undergo metabolism in the liver.
How long does it take for cannabis capsule effects to kick in?
Typically, THC capsules take approximately 90 minutes to begin exhibiting effects. These effects can persist for 5 to 12 hours, gradually waning in intensity. Compared to inhaled cannabis, capsule effects generally last twice as long on average.
However, individual experiences may vary based on factors such as age, medications, personal cannabis tolerance, and cannabinoid composition. Some users also report differing effects depending on specific cannabinoids present, potentially due to the “entourage effect.”
How to mail order marijuana?
To mail order recreational cannabis, locate a reputable delivery service online that offers superior quality cannabis products. After selecting your items, choose “order cannabis delivery,” and a delivery driver will safely bring your order. Ensure the service is trustworthy for a smooth purchasing experience.
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