Cannabis-Based Drug Aims to Combat Weight Loss in Cancer Patients

Researchers from the UK biotech firm Artelo Biosciences have developed an experimental cannabis-based medication aimed at helping cancer patients combat cachexia, a severe condition that leads to significant weight loss and muscle deterioration. This innovative treatment leverages the well-known phenomenon of “the munchies,” enhancing appetite and taste without causing the psychoactive effects typically associated with cannabis.

Approximately 80% of advanced cancer patients experience cachexia, which presents considerable challenges in managing their overall health and quality of life. Existing medications that stimulate appetite often fail to provide sufficient relief for all patients, creating a pressing need for more effective solutions.

Clinical Trial Results Show Promising Outcomes

The newly developed medication, which is administered in tablet form, has demonstrated promising results in early clinical trials. According to Artelo Biosciences, participants taking the drug gained an average of 6.4% of their body weight over a 12-week period, while those receiving a placebo lost an average of 5.4%. Researchers monitored patient activity levels using wearable devices, finding that those on the medication increased their physical activity, while placebo users became less active.

Lead researcher Professor Barry Laird, a palliative care specialist at the University of Oslo, shared these findings during a conference on cachexia held in Turin last month. He noted the emotional impact of the drug, stating, “Eating is a core part of human existence, and when a person can’t sit at the dinner table and interact with family over food, that causes distress, not only for the patient, but for the carers and their family as well.”

The study included 25 participants with various advanced cancers, all of whom either ceased losing weight or began to regain it after receiving the medication. These results highlight the potential for a medication that not only improves physical health but also enhances the overall quality of life for patients and their families.

Future Prospects and Development Plans

With the encouraging outcomes from the initial trials, Artelo Biosciences intends to proceed with larger phase three studies. Chief Scientific Officer Andy Yates expressed optimism about the future availability of the treatment, suggesting it could be accessible as early as 2028, contingent on the success of further research. He emphasized the dual benefits of the medication, stating, “We are confident we will be able to show that this drug can save treatment costs as well as helping improve the quality of life of patients, their families, and their carers.”

As societies increasingly explore the therapeutic potential of cannabis-derived medications, including recent discussions in New York about legalizing psilocybin for therapeutic use, this development could represent a significant advancement in the fight against cancer-related weight loss. The implications for patient care and treatment efficacy are profound, suggesting a future where patients can regain not just weight, but also cherished moments around the dinner table.