Medical Marijuana for Cancer

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a group of more than 100 diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Treatment commonly combines surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and increasingly targeted or immunotherapeutic agents. Symptom burden (pain, nausea, appetite loss, sleep disruption, anxiety) is substantial and often persists beyond active treatment.

Cancer is a qualifying condition under every comprehensive US medical cannabis program. It is one of the most common diagnoses for which patients enter state registries.

Does cannabis help Cancer?

The 2017 NASEM consensus report identified conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective antiemetics in adults receiving chemotherapy. Two FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoids (dronabinol and nabilone) are indicated for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) that has not responded to conventional antiemetics.

NASEM also found limited evidence of improvement in cancer-associated anorexia and cachexia (loss of appetite and body mass) with cannabinoid use, and limited evidence for sleep-disturbance improvement among cancer patients.

Antitumor effects of cannabinoids remain at the preclinical and early-clinical research stage. Cannabis is not a substitute for evidence-based cancer therapy, and patients should coordinate cannabis use with their oncology care team to avoid interactions with chemotherapy and immunotherapy regimens.

Patient guidance from Miracle Leaf®

Cannabis is one of several treatment options patients with cancer may consider. Our Miracle Leaf® physicians evaluate each patient against the qualifying-condition criteria of their state program and discuss expected benefits and risks based on current clinical evidence. We coordinate with your other treating clinicians where appropriate.

Miracle Leaf brand products including CBD, Delta-8, and low-THC formulations are available for in-store pickup and nationwide shipping through the Miracle Leaf Store.