A new review published in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine has found that medical cannabis can improve the quality of life for cancer patients.
Researchers at Universidade Federal de São Paulo analyzed 267 studies and narrowed them down to 16 that met their strict criteria for inclusion.
“The studies suggest that MC can improve mental health, sleep, appetite, and pain in cancer patients and decrease nausea, vomiting, and the use of other medications, such as opioids”, states the study’s researchers. “Increased survival time and cognitive function improvements were also observed, with mild or moderate adverse effects.”
Most of the studies evaluated both THC and CBD, often in full-spectrum formulations, though the length and type of treatment varied. Reported side effects were generally mild or moderate.
“Despite differences and methodological limitations, including only four randomized clinical trials, which precluded systematic review or meta-analysis, findings suggest that MC may improve QoL for cancer patients by alleviating physical and psychosocial symptoms associated with cancer treatment”, concludes the study. “In contrast, some mild or moderate adverse effects may be present. Moreover, the use of MC faces challenges such as the interaction with some chemotherapy treatment.”
Researchers note that “More randomized controlled trials are needed to better understand the effects of MC among oncology patients.”
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