Miracle Leaf® qualifying-conditions guide

Medical Marijuana for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. The 2017 NASEM consensus report found conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective antiemetics in adults receiving chemotherapy.

Reviewed by Miracle Leaf® Editorial Team

Last reviewed 2026-05-14

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NASEM evidence levelConclusive or substantialICD-10: R11.2

What is Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting?

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of cytotoxic chemotherapy that can compromise nutrition, quality of life, and treatment adherence. Severity and duration vary by regimen, dose, and individual patient factors; highly emetogenic platinum-based regimens carry the greatest risk. Standard prophylaxis combines 5-HT3 antagonists, NK1 antagonists, and corticosteroids.

Does cannabis help Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting?

Two oral synthetic cannabinoids, dronabinol and nabilone, are FDA-approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting that has not responded to conventional antiemetic therapy. The 2017 NASEM consensus report classified the evidence supporting their effectiveness in adults as substantial. Trial evidence for whole-plant cannabis is more limited than for the approved synthetic agents.

Eligibility

State eligibility for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Whether this condition is listed varies by state program. A Miracle Leaf® physician determines eligibility during your evaluation.

State-by-state eligibility for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: whether the condition qualifies under Florida, Georgia, and Texas medical cannabis programs.
State	Qualifies?	Program
Florida	Not listed	Florida OMMU
Georgia	Not listed	Georgia DPH Low-THC Registry
Texas	Not listed	Texas Compassionate Use Program

Outside Florida, Georgia, or Texas?

Telehealth visits are available in 22 states. See telehealth states

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

What is CINV?

CINV stands for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. A common adverse effect of cancer chemotherapy, particularly regimens involving cisplatin, anthracyclines, or high-dose alkylating agents. Severity ranges from mild to disabling.

How do cannabinoids compare to standard antiemetics like ondansetron?

In trials predating the modern 5-HT3 antagonist class (ondansetron, granisetron), cannabinoids were more effective than the available antiemetics. With modern combination antiemetic protocols, cannabinoids are typically reserved as add-on therapy for patients with breakthrough nausea not controlled by first-line regimens.

Is dronabinol the same as cannabis?

Dronabinol is synthetic delta-9-THC. Chemically identical to the THC molecule found in cannabis, but produced pharmaceutically. It is FDA-approved as Marinol for chemotherapy nausea and for AIDS-associated anorexia. Plant cannabis contains THC plus dozens of other cannabinoids and terpenes; dronabinol contains only THC.

When during chemotherapy should antiemetic cannabinoids be used?

Per dronabinol prescribing information, the first dose is typically given 1–3 hours before chemotherapy, with subsequent doses every 2–4 hours after. Patients should follow oncologist guidance and the FDA label for any prescribed cannabinoid antiemetic.

Sources and citations

NASEM: The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
“Conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective antiemetics in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.”
NIH NCCIH: Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids

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Reviewed by Miracle Leaf® Editorial Team. This page summarizes current peer-reviewed evidence and federal guidance and is updated when the source documents materially change.