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Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is the dried leaves and flowering parts of the Cannabis plant, which includes species like Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. It contains natural chemicals called cannabinoids that affect the body’s central nervous system and immune system. The most well-known cannabinoid is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can cause psychoactive effects or a “high.” Another important cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which does not cause a high and may help reduce pain, inflammation, and anxiety. Cannabis products include dried plant material, oils, capsules, sprays, and more.
People with cancer sometimes use cannabis or cannabinoid products to help manage symptoms caused by cancer or its treatments. These symptoms include nausea and vomiting (especially from chemotherapy), pain, anxiety, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Two cannabinoid-based drugs, dronabinol and nabilone, are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically to prevent or treat chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. However, cannabis as a whole plant or other cannabinoid products are not approved to treat cancer itself. Cannabis may be considered part of supportive or complementary care to improve quality of life during cancer treatment.
Patients may hear about cannabis during discussions of symptom management, supportive care, or clinical trials. Terms like marijuana, cannabis oil, CBD oil, or cannabidiol may come up. Some patients use cannabis or CBD oil to relieve symptoms such as pain, nausea, anxiety, or appetite loss. It is important to understand that these products are not standard cancer treatments and should not replace prescribed therapies. Because cannabis products vary widely in strength and purity, medical guidance is important. Patients should talk openly with their cancer care team about any interest in cannabis or CBD to understand potential benefits, risks, and interactions with other medications.
By federal law in the United States, cannabis remains illegal except in approved research settings. However, many states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, with laws varying widely. Some states allow medical cannabis for cancer-related symptoms, while others do not. Patients should be aware of their local laws before considering cannabis use. Cannabis can affect mood, coordination, and other body functions, so it should be used carefully and under medical supervision. Side effects and interactions with other medications are possible. This entry is educational and does not replace personalized medical advice.
If you are thinking about using cannabis or CBD oil, it is helpful to have an open conversation with your cancer care team. You might ask whether cannabis could help your symptoms, what side effects or risks to watch for, how it might interact with your cancer treatments or other medicines, and where to find safe, reliable products if you choose to try them. Your healthcare providers can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your individual health needs and guide you on how cannabis might fit into your overall care plan.
It is important to know that cannabis use does not mean you are receiving cancer treatment. Cannabis is not a cure for cancer and does not directly fight cancer cells. Claims that cannabis cures cancer are not supported by strong scientific evidence. Instead, cannabis is mainly used to help relieve symptoms and improve comfort during cancer care. It should never replace standard cancer treatments prescribed by your doctor.
Learning about cannabis and cannabinoids can be confusing due to many products, laws, and claims. If you are interested in cannabis for symptom relief, start by discussing it with your cancer care team. They can provide trustworthy information, help you understand the current evidence, and support safe use if appropriate. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and never stop or change cancer treatments without their guidance.
Public source information used for this glossary entry includes: