Can Cannabis Treat Cancer? Understanding the Facts

The use of cannabis as a medical treatment for pain has been a topic of debate and research worldwide, including in the UK. Many people wonder if cannabis can treat or even cure cancer. While current research shows that cannabis cannot cure cancer, it can play a role in managing some symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatments.

This blog explores the relationship between cannabis and cancer, focusing on what’s permitted in the UK, how cannabis may help, and the scientific evidence behind these claims.

What does the science say?

Research into cannabis and cancer is on-going, and while some promising findings exist, no scientific evidence proves that cannabis cures cancer. Laboratory studies have shown that cannabinoids (active compounds in cannabis) might inhibit cancer cell growth or cause cell death in specific conditions. However, these findings are preliminary and largely confined to preclinical settings like petri dishes and animal models.

The real-world application of these findings in human cancer treatment remains limited and unproven. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) emphasises that cannabis is not a cure for cancer but can be a supportive therapy for managing symptoms.

How cannabis can help cancer patients

Though cannabis is not a cure, it can provide relief for some cancer-related symptoms and the side effects of cancer treatments, such as:

1. Pain Management:
   Cannabinoids have been found to reduce chronic pain, including the severe pain caused by cancer or chemotherapy. The UK has licensed medicinal cannabis products like Sativex, which contain THC and CBD, for specific cases of chronic pain.
2. Nausea and Vomiting Relief:
   Chemotherapy often causes debilitating nausea and vomiting. Nabiximols, a cannabis-based medicine, has shown potential in reducing these side effects when other treatments are ineffective.
3. Appetite Stimulation:
   Loss of appetite and weight loss are common in cancer patients. Researchers have reported that cannabis stimulates appetite, potentially benefiting patients undergoing treatment.
4. Anxiety and Sleep Issues:
   Cancer and its treatment can lead to significant psychological distress. CBD, a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, may help with anxiety and improve sleep quality.

The legal status of medicinal cannabis in the UK

The UK strictly regulates cannabis-based medicines. Since 2018, the UK has legalised medicinal cannabis for certain conditions, but only in cases where standard treatments have failed. Specialist doctors prescribe these medications individually.

Key cannabis-based medicines available in the UK include:

• Nabiximols (Sativex): Approved for muscle stiffness in multiple sclerosis and sometimes used for cancer-related pain.
• Epidyolex: A CBD-based medicine for severe epilepsy, which may also be considered for cancer patients experiencing specific symptoms.

It’s important to note that recreational cannabis remains illegal in the UK, and self-medicating with unregulated cannabis products is both unlawful and potentially harmful.

Managing expectations: Cannabis is not a cure

While cannabis can alleviate certain symptoms, it’s essential to manage expectations. Cannabis is not a substitute for conventional cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. Patients should always consult their oncologist or healthcare team before considering cannabis-based therapies.

Unregulated cannabis products, often sold online or in black markets, pose risks due to unknown potency, contamination, and interactions with prescribed medications. Trusting approved and regulated treatments ensures safety and efficacy.

Looking to the future

On-going research may provide deeper insights into the role of cannabis in cancer treatment. Clinical trials are underway to determine how cannabinoids interact with cancer cells and to develop more effective, evidence-based treatments.

As the understanding of cannabis and its compounds evolves, there’s hope for new therapeutic applications. However, at present, cannabis serves as a complementary option rather than a cure for cancer.

Conclusion

Cannabis cannot cure cancer, but it can help alleviate some of the symptoms and side effects associated with cancer and its treatments. As a controlled and highly regulated substance, medicinal cannabis is available only through prescription from a specialist doctor. Patients should approach this treatment with realistic expectations and always seek medical advice before exploring cannabis as an option.

The promise of future research into cannabis and cancer is exciting, but for now, it remains a supportive therapy rather than a standalone solution. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare professionals, patients can make the best decisions for their care journey.