Cachexia, Wasting Syndrome
Dr. Michael Duplessie, FRCS Ophth (Glasgow), M.B., B.Ch., L.R.C.P. & S.I., B.A.O., B.A.
Cachexia, Wasting Syndrome
Cytotoxic chemotherapy can trigger a host of debilitating side effects, including muscle wasting, metabolic disruption, and loss of appetite. These side effects not only diminish quality of life but can also impact treatment efficacy and even increase mortality rates. For decades, extracts of Cannabis sativa have been used to mitigate these side effects, but their psychoactive side-effects and limited efficacy against weight loss have limited their utility.
Thankfully, research has identified cannabigerol (CBG), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, as a potential solution. In a recent study, CBG was found to stimulate appetite in healthy rats without causing neuromotor side-effects, indicating its potential as a safe and effective alternative for cancer patients.
Interestingly, the study also revealed the potential of endocannabinoid-like lipoamines in regulating metabolic side-effects associated with chemotherapy, with the N-acyl glycine subfamily in particular showing promise as a therapeutic target and/or biomarker of anabolic interventions.
The findings of this study are encouraging, suggesting that CBG-based treatments may represent a promising therapeutic option for chemotherapy-induced cachexia. Future research will need to investigate the efficacy of these treatments in tumour-bearing cachexia models. Nonetheless, these results offer hope for individuals undergoing chemotherapy and highlight the importance of continued research into the potential of cannabis-based treatments in cancer care.
Medical Marijuana
Safe & Legal
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to breaking conventions and helping those in need. My passion for medicine began during my time working in refugee camps in Thailand, and since then, I have made it my mission to provide care and support to those who need it most.
As a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology, I have made numerous contributions and innovations in the field of corneal transplantation and laser surgery. I am comfortable challenging conventions.
I have seen firsthand the positive impact medical marijuana can have on patients struggling with pain and anxiety.
My experiences have shown me that medical marijuana can offer significant benefits with minimal side effects, providing patients with an alternative to traditional pharmaceutical medications. Despite its potential, the government’s stance on marijuana is outdated and in need of revision.
Through my observations, I have seen prescription rates for pain, stress, insomnia, anxiety to name just a few, drastically decrease among patients who have obtained a medical marijuana card, and I believe that this is a testament to its effectiveness.
