Cannabis Use in Medical Oncology: A Brief Review

Abstract

Introduction: Nowadays, on cannabis and its use in clinical practice, one of the limiting factors may be medical knowledge. This article seeks to dispel myths about medical cannabis and aims to explore the pharmacology, the possible current indications for cannabis use in the oncology area, more specifically the treatment of nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy, and in appetite loss, and to review the theoretical aspects in the literature of its antineoplastic effect. Finally, also addresses some practical and clinical aspects of cannabis use. Material and Methods: Three electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar) were searched between 1990 and 2018. The search strategy adopted the keywords “Cannabis”, “Medical Marijuana”, “Medical Cannabis”, “Oncology”, “Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting”. Results: The search retrieved 300 records. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 42 articles were selected for the synthesis of this paper. The results section in this narrative review was organized in subtopics (pharmacology, therapeutic forms, international use, nausea and vomiting, stimulation of appetite, antineoplastic effect and practical recommendations) to obtain a more linear narration. Discussion: The exact place of cannabis in medical practice is still the subject of much debate, but the body of evidence grows, and legislation is changing to reflect its increasing use. Public and medical opinions have also changed significantly regarding its utility in several medical conditions. Conclusion: Further trials are necessary to assess the safety and efficacy of medical cannabis. Policies should provide guidance regarding the application of current evidence on medical cannabis to clinical practice.

Keywords

• Medical Marijuana; Nausea; Neoplasms/complications; Vomiting