How to Treat Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Chemotherapy is a life-saving treatment for cancer, but its side effects can often make the journey even more difficult. One of the most common and distressing side effects of chemotherapy is nausea and vomiting, which can severely affect a patient’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage these symptoms and help patients feel more comfortable during their treatment. One promising remedy that has gained attention is medical cannabis, known for its potential to alleviate chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).

In this blog post, we will explore the causes of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, effective treatments, and how medical cannabis can offer relief. We will also discuss how MARUCANNA provides medical cannabis prescriptions for patients dealing with CINV.

Understanding chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)

Chemotherapy works by targeting and destroying rapidly growing cancer cells. However, this treatment also affects healthy cells in the body, particularly those in the digestive system. The chemicals used in chemotherapy can irritate the stomach lining and trigger signals in the brain that lead to nausea and vomiting. The severity of CINV can vary depending on the type of chemotherapy drugs used, the individual’s sensitivity, and other factors like hydration levels and overall health.

Causes of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

1. Certain chemotherapy drugs have a higher likelihood of causing nausea and vomiting. Drugs like cisplatin, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin are known to be highly emetogenic (causing vomiting).
2. Chemoreceptor trigger zone: Chemotherapy triggers the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the brain, which sends signals that lead to nausea and vomiting. This is especially prominent with highly potent chemotherapy drugs.
3. Delayed nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting may not appear immediately after chemotherapy. In certain instances, the symptoms may take up to 24-48 hours to manifest, thereby complicating the management process.
4. Individual sensitivity: Some people are more sensitive to chemotherapy and are therefore more likely to experience nausea and vomiting. A history of motion sickness or nausea may increase risk.

Traditional treatments for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is crucial for improving the patient’s overall well-being. Patients commonly use several traditional treatments to combat these symptoms:

1. Anti-nausea medications (antiemetics)

Antiemetic medications, designed to block the chemicals in the body that trigger nausea and vomiting, are the most common treatments for CINV. These include:

• 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists: Medications like ondansetron (Zofran) block serotonin, a chemical that triggers nausea.
• NK1 Receptor Antagonists: Drugs like aprepitant (Emend) work by blocking the neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor, which plays a role in vomiting.
• Dopamine Antagonists: Medications like metoclopramide (Reglan) help block dopamine receptors in the brain that are involved in nausea.
• Corticosteroids: Prednisone or dexamethasone can help reduce inflammation and prevent nausea and vomiting, especially when combined with other antiemetics.

1. Acupuncture and acupressure

Some patients find relief from nausea through acupuncture or acupressure—techniques that target specific points on the body to alleviate nausea. People often target the P6 acupoint, located on the inner wrist, for nausea relief.

2. Hydration and diet adjustments

Maintaining hydration and eating small, frequent meals can also help reduce the severity of nausea. Sometimes, doctors administer intravenous (IV) fluids to treat vomiting-induced dehydration.

3. Ginger and other natural remedies

Some studies suggest that ginger may help with nausea due to its anti-inflammatory properties. You can consume ginger in various forms such as tea, supplements, or even raw.

How can medical cannabis help with nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy?

While traditional treatments can be effective, they do not work for everyone, and many patients still suffer from persistent symptoms. This is where medical cannabis comes in as a potential alternative treatment for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that medical cannabis, specifically cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), can play a significant role in reducing nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

How cannabis works to relieve nausea and vomiting

1. Activation of the Endocannabinoid System: Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps regulate various physiological functions, including appetite and nausea. THC, in particular, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, helping to reduce nausea and increase appetite.
2. Antiemetic Properties: THC is a well-known antiemetic (anti-nausea) agent. THC acts on the brain’s vomiting centre to reduce nausea and vomiting, providing relief for chemotherapy patients who do not respond well to traditional antiemetic drugs.
3. Reduction of Inflammation: CBD, another major cannabinoid in cannabis, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the gut and other parts of the digestive system, CBD may help alleviate nausea and improve digestion.
4. Appetite Stimulation: Both THC and CBD have appetite-stimulating effects. This is particularly helpful for chemotherapy patients who experience a loss of appetite and struggle to maintain proper nutrition during treatment.

How can MARUCANNA assist with medical cannabis prescriptions?

If you are undergoing chemotherapy and struggling with nausea and vomiting, MARUCANNA can help you access medical cannabis to manage your symptoms. Here’s how the process works:

1. Consultation with a healthcare provider

The first step is to schedule a consultation with a licensed healthcare provider at MARUCANNA. We will review your medical history and treatment plan during the consultation to determine if medical cannabis is an appropriate remedy for your chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

2. Personalised treatment plan

Based on your individual needs, the healthcare provider will create a personalised treatment plan, recommending the type of cannabis products that would be most beneficial for your symptoms. This may include THC-rich products for nausea relief or CBD products for reducing inflammation and stimulating appetite.

3. Receive a prescription

If medical cannabis is deemed appropriate for your condition, MARUCANNA will provide you with a prescription that you can use to purchase cannabis products at a licensed dispensary. The prescription will specify the dosage and product types that are most suitable for your symptoms.

4. Ongoing support and adjustments

As you begin using medical cannabis, MARUCANNA offers ongoing support to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan if necessary. This ensures that you are receiving the most effective relief for your symptoms.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting are common side effects that can significantly impact a cancer patient’s quality of life. Traditional antiemetic medications, though widely used, may not be effective for everyone. Medical cannabis has emerged as a promising alternative for managing these symptoms, offering relief through its antiemetic, anti-inflammatory, and appetite-stimulating effects.

If you are struggling with CINV and considering medical cannabis as part of your treatment plan, MARUCANNA can help guide you through the process of obtaining a prescription. With the right care and treatment, you can reduce nausea and vomiting and improve your overall well-being during chemotherapy.

Reach out to MARUCANNA today to explore how medical cannabis can help you manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and make your treatment journey more manageable.