Tetrahydrocannabinol for cancer-related anorexia

This study is investigating whether tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the active ingredient in cannabis — can help improve appetite in people with advanced cancer who have been experiencing reduced appetite (anorexia) for at least two weeks. Loss of appetite is a very common and distressing problem for people with cancer, and few effective treatments exist. Adults aged 18 and over with advanced cancer and poor appetite will be randomly assigned to receive either THC or a placebo (inactive) wafer dissolved under the tongue before meals. The dose starts low and increases over the first week before being maintained for up to three more weeks. All participants will complete questionnaires about their appetite and keep a food diary. You may be eligible if you are 18 or older, have advanced cancer, and have had significantly reduced appetite for at least two weeks. People with severe liver or kidney problems, cognitive impairment, serious psychiatric conditions (including psychosis, schizophrenia, or depression), unstable heart disease, a prior bad reaction to cannabis products, or recent cannabis use are not eligible. This research could provide important evidence to guide doctors in treating one of cancer's most common and debilitating symptoms.