Appetite loss with HIV/AIDS
Loss of appetite and weight in HIV/AIDS. Limited evidence, and the basis for one of dronabinol's FDA indications.
What the evidence says
NASEM 2017: limited evidence for increasing appetite and decreasing weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS.
NASEM found limited evidence that cannabis and oral cannabinoids increase appetite and decrease weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS. Dronabinol carries an FDA indication for anorexia associated with weight loss in patients with AIDS, added in 1992.
Appetite stimulation from THC is one of its more reliable subjective effects, but "reliable subjective effect" and "clinically demonstrated benefit" are different standards, and the evidence sits at the lower one.
For appetite loss from other causes, there is no comparable evidence base.
What to ask for
This is a starting point, not a prescription. Take it to a licensed dispensary and ask to see the batch certificate of analysis.
- Suggested ratio
- THC-forward
- Starting THC dose
- 2.5 mg
- Commonly chosen profile
- Balanced hybrid
- Time of day
- either
Cannabinoids
- THC
The main intoxicating compound in cannabis. It drives most of what people mean by "high," and it is also the cannabinoid behind most documented therapeutic effects.
Terpenes to look for
Commonly present in products people choose for this. Terpene effect claims are preclinical — this is a way to find a product again, not a promise about how it will feel.
Formats
- FlowerOnset 1–10 min · lasts 2–4 h
Dried cannabis, smoked or dry-herb vaporised. Fast onset makes it the easiest format to titrate.
- Vape cartridgeOnset 1–10 min · lasts 2–4 h
Concentrated cannabis oil in a battery-powered cartridge. Discreet, potent, and easy to over-do.
- TinctureOnset 15–90 min · lasts 4–8 h
Liquid extract dosed by dropper. The most precise way to titrate an oral dose in small increments.
Get a personalised starting point
Answer four questions and we will adjust the dose for your experience level and find licensed dispensaries near you.
Get guidanceTalk to a doctor if
- • You are losing weight without trying
- • You are living with HIV — coordinate with your care team, as prescription dronabinol may be the better route
Related conditions
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomitingNausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. One of three indications with substantial evidence, and the basis for two FDA-approved medicines.
- Nausea (general)Nausea not caused by chemotherapy. The strong evidence is specific to chemotherapy — this is weaker ground.
- IBS and inflammatory bowel diseaseDigestive conditions with pain and disrupted bowel function. Symptom relief may help; disease activity does not appear to change.