Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. One of three indications with substantial evidence, and the basis for two FDA-approved medicines.
What the evidence says
NASEM 2017: conclusive or substantial evidence for oral cannabinoids as antiemetics in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
This is the indication where cannabinoid medicine is least controversial. NASEM placed oral cannabinoids as antiemetics for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in the highest evidence category, and the FDA has approved dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros) and nabilone (Cesamet) specifically for it.
If you are undergoing chemotherapy, this is a conversation to have with your oncology team rather than a self-directed experiment. Prescription cannabinoids have known dosing, known interactions, and are covered by insurance in ways dispensary products are not.
Where dispensary products are used, fast-onset formats are usually preferred because nausea is episodic and swallowing an edible during active nausea is impractical.
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; CBD optional
- 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 undergoing chemotherapy — always coordinate with your oncology team first
- • You cannot keep fluids down
- • You are losing weight rapidly
Related conditions
- Appetite loss with HIV/AIDSLoss of appetite and weight in HIV/AIDS. Limited evidence, and the basis for one of dronabinol's FDA indications.
- 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.