Cachexia is a multifaceted condition characterized by persistent muscle loss that cannot be completely reversed through standard nutritional support, resulting in functional decline. It may be masked by excess weight, obesity, edema, or tumor mass. Anorexia is the term used for reduced appetite, often observed in cancer patients, although its precise prevalence remains uncertain.
When cachexia primarily results from decreased intake, it is termed cancer-related cachexia and anorexia syndrome (CACS), which encompasses muscle wasting, lipolysis, and reduced food intake, contrasting with simple cachexia.
Some researchers suggest that cannabis from WeedSmart Canada could enhance appetite and alleviate nausea in cancer patients.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- THC capsules from WeedSmart Canada may assist cancer patients in consuming more food and feeling less ill, thus improving their quality of life.
- Studies indicate that cannabis influences brain cells controlling hunger, potentially aiding appetite issues in cancer patients and others.
- THC capsules are precise, convenient, discreet, and long-lasting, making them ideal for medical marijuana users who prefer not to smoke.
Cancer Cachexia and Anorexia Syndrome
Cachexia signifies a condition marked by considerable weight loss due to the depletion of muscle and fat, frequently seen in patients with severe illnesses such as heart failure, HIV/AIDS, COPD, kidney failure, and particularly cancer.
This often occurs alongside anorexia, which leads to a decrease in appetite resulting in at least a 5% loss in body weight. Together, they constitute cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome (CACS).
Hospitalized cancer patients typically exhibit poor nutritional intake, with nearly half being malnourished or at risk. Cachexia not only diminishes the quality of life for patients but also impedes treatment and can hasten the end of life. Its occurrence escalates significantly as death approaches, with cachexia identified as the leading cause of death in over 20% of instances.
Despite its widespread prevalence, CACS frequently goes unnoticed and untreated in clinical environments due to the absence of clear definitions, diagnostic criteria, classification systems, and approved treatments. Clinicians evaluate a patient’s nutritional status through various metrics such as body weight, skin fold thickness, and mid-arm circumference, though body weight is often the primary focus, typically relying on inappropriate reference weights.
Treatment
The most evident approach to tackle anorexia is to enhance nutrition – yet evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. For cancer patients, nutritional care comprises:
- Dietary Counseling
- Oral Supplements
- Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition
However, success varies based on the type and stage of cancer.
Pharmacological Approaches
Currently, there are no validated medications specifically for treating Cancer Anorexia-Cachexia Syndrome (CACS), but some drugs are utilized off-label or are undergoing clinical trials. These drugs can be categorized into four groups based on their mechanisms:
- Appetite Stimulants
- Cytokine Modulators
- Anabolic Agents
- Combination Therapies
Moreover, megestrol acetate, a progestin, is used separately due to its unclear mechanism of action.
Cannabis in Medicine
The cannabinoid may enhance the lives of cancer patients and pave the way for future treatments, providing hope for those suffering from cachexia, a condition characterized by appetite loss and malnutrition. It offers relief without intoxicating effects, making it a promising option for these patients.
Various cannabis formulations with distinct effects are available, including inhaled THC for quick onset and short-lived effects, as well as orally ingested THC for slower absorption and prolonged effects. Sublingual administration provides rapid onset lasting 2 to 4 hours.
Clinical Trial
A study conducted by scholars from Israel and the United States examined how cannabis pills influence CACS in advanced cancer patients. This research has significant implications for treating appetite disorders faced by cancer patients, individuals with anorexia, and potentially those with obesity.
Methods
They utilized cannabis capsules containing two types of oil-based compounds, planning to treat participants with 10 mg doses twice daily for six months, comprising 9.5 mg of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 0.5 mg of cannabidiol (CBD).
If participants experienced side effects, the dose was reduced to 5 mg twice daily (4.75 mg THC and 0.25 mg CBD). Participants were weighed at each doctor’s visit, with the primary objective being for participants to gain at least 10% more weight than their initial weight.
Results
Out of 24 patients who consented to participate, 17 began treatment with cannabis capsules. However, only 11 continued taking the capsules for over two weeks. By the conclusion of the study, 3 out of 6 patients who completed the treatment reached the primary goal of gaining at least 10% more weight, while the weight of the other three patients remained unchanged.
Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), an inflammation marker, decreased following treatment. Patients reported improved appetite and mood, along with reduced pain and fatigue.
Despite various challenges, this initial study indicated a 10% or greater weight gain in 3 out of 17 patients (17.6%) taking daily doses of 5 mg once or twice without significant side effects. These results support the need for a larger, more controlled study on cannabis capsules in patients with CACS.
Cannabis Capsules
For those who enjoy edibles, cannabis flower, or traditional pre-rolls, discovering new methods to enjoy cannabis is always appealing.
THC capsules from WeedSmart Canada represent one of the newest entries in the cannabis market. These capsules are cannabis pills containing a precise dose of THC, created from concentrated cannabis extract and a neutral oil. They resemble cannabis tinctures in capsule form (also known as cannabis oil capsules or THC pills).
Key Components
- Cannabis Extract: This concentrated extract is sourced from the cannabis plant using a method chosen by the manufacturer. THC capsules are rich in THC, although some may contain only CBD or varying CBD/THC ratios.
- Neutral Oil Suspension: THC is not soluble in water; hence, it is suspended in oil for optimal absorption by the body. The most common oils used are medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oils), enhancing digestion and absorption.
Benefits
Patients using medical marijuana and recreational users can gain advantages from cannabis capsules. They offer:
- Convenience: Consuming a cannabis capsule is as straightforward as taking any other oral supplement. Just swallow it with water, hassle-free.
- Precision Dosage: For medical users, having precise control over cannabinoid intake is essential for achieving desired effects. With THC capsules, each dose is accurately measured, eliminating uncertainty.
- Smoke-Free Option: Many individuals prefer to avoid smoking or vaping due to personal choices or health concerns. THC capsules provide a smoke-free alternative, suitable for those with respiratory issues.
- Longer Effects: Capsules typically deliver longer-lasting effects compared to smoking or vaping, making them ideal for sustained symptom relief over several hours.
Cannabis Capsules vs. Other Forms of Medicinal Cannabis
| Aspect | Cannabis Capsules | Other Forms of Medicinal Cannabis |
| Dosing | Precise dosing with each capsule | Dosing may vary based on the consumption method (e.g., smoking, vaping, edibles) |
| Consumption | Oral ingestion | Smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures |
| Effects | Longer-lasting, gradual onset | Immediate onset, shorter duration |
| Effects on Appetite Stimulation | Gradual stimulation | Immediate stimulation |
Place a Medical Cannabis Delivery Order Conveniently
With the rising demand for dependable cannabis delivery services, online dispensaries provide a seamless solution. From same-day cannabis delivery to premium cannabis products, these dispensaries offer a diverse range of options to meet every preference and requirement.
If you’re in search of cannabis flower, pre-rolls, edibles, or vape pens, you can effortlessly explore WeedSmart Canada’s finest marijuana offerings sourced from the highest quality marijuana plants. Shop for your favorite THC products from the comfort of your home.
So why delay? Experience same-day delivery today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of capsules?
Another advantage of cannabis pills/capsules is their versatility – formulators can create various capsule types for consumers to select from. This means you can find capsules that cater to your personal preference.
- 1:1 Capsules: These capsules provide an equal ratio of THC to CBD in each dose. They can be made with sativa or indica strains and are available in various concentrations like 5 mg, 20 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg cannabinoids per capsule.
- 3:1 Capsules: These capsules deliver a ratio of 3 parts CBD to 1 part THC in each dose.
- THC Capsules: These capsules contain THC exclusively, with varying concentrations per capsule, derived from different Sativa or Indica strains to provide specific effects.
- CBD Capsules: These only contain CBD, without THC, ensuring no mind-altering effects. They are intended for individuals seeking the benefits of CBD alone.
How do capsules interact with your body?
- The capsule’s outer shell disintegrates in your digestive tract once consumed.
- The contents of the capsule are absorbed into the bloodstream.
- THC (and other cannabinoids) undergo metabolism in the liver.
How long does it take for cannabis capsule effects to kick in?
Typically, THC capsules take approximately 90 minutes to begin showing effects. The effects can last from 5 to 12 hours, gradually decreasing in intensity. Compared to inhaled cannabis, capsule effects generally last twice as long on average.
However, experiences may vary depending on factors like age, medications, individual cannabis tolerance, and cannabinoid composition. Some users also report different effects based on specific cannabinoids present, possibly due to the “entourage effect.”
How to mail order marijuana?
To mail order recreational cannabis, find a trustworthy delivery service online that provides the highest quality cannabis products. After selecting your products, choose “order cannabis delivery,” and a delivery driver will safely deliver your order. Ensure the service is reputable for a smooth purchasing experience.
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