Loss of appetite refers to a reduced desire for food. It can be caused by underlying factors like:
- Illness
- Stress
- Medication side effects
Not eating enough food can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and other health problems. Cannabis may help stimulate appetite, making it a potential treatment option.
Research on cannabis for loss of appetite
Cannabis interacts with receptors that regulate hunger signals in your brain. Therefore, cannabis may help with low appetite caused by conditions like:
- AIDS/HIV
- Anxiety
- Cancer
- Depression
- Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Studies show that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the dominant cannabinoid in cannabis, may help improve appetite by increasing the production of hunger hormones like leptin and ghrelin.
Another study found that dronabinol, a prescription-only synthetic form of THC approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), improves appetite in people with HIV/AIDS and cancer.
Some research suggests that other cannabinoids in cannabis, including cannabidiol (CBD), may decrease appetite.
While early findings are promising, more studies are needed to understand cannabis’s full potential in treating appetite loss.
Using cannabis for loss of appetite
You might consider medical cannabis for appetite loss due to a medical condition like cancer, HIV/AIDS, or chronic pain. Before using cannabis, talk with your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.
Benefits
Cannabis has multiple benefits related to appetite loss, including:
- Stimulating appetite: THC activates brain receptors that release hunger hormones.
- Reducing nausea: Cannabis may reducenausea and vomiting, which can interfere with appetite.
- Improving mood: Cannabinoids like THC and CBD may help lower stress and anxiety, which can affect appetite.
Risks and side effects
Like any medication, cannabis has possible risks and side effects.
- Cognitive effects: High doses of THC may cause drowsiness, memory issues, dizziness, or paranoia.
- Dependence: Using cannabis frequently may make you rely on it to maintain your appetite.
Is it legal?
Cannabis laws vary by state. In some states, you can qualify for a medical cannabis card if you have a condition that causes low appetite, like cancer or MS.
Minors may need a state-registered caregiver to access medical cannabis for appetite loss, depending on state laws.
The FDA has approved some THC-based medications, including dronabinol, for low appetite. But these medications are usually prescribed for severe cases of appetite loss caused by a condition like cancer or HIV/AIDS.
More about loss of appetite
Your doctor can diagnose appetite loss based on your symptoms, food intake, and medical history.
Other treatments for loss of appetite
The best treatment for appetite loss depends on the underlying cause.
Traditional therapies
Your doctor will recommend a treatment based on your health situation. Common treatments include:
- Appetite-stimulating medications: Drugs that may increase hunger include dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros), nabilone (Cesamet), or megestrol acetate (Megace).
- Nutritional counseling: This may help you develop healthier eating habits.
- Psychotherapy: Therapy can help if your appetite loss is caused by emotional stress.
- Exercise plans: Regular exercise may boost appetite.
Natural and alternative therapies
Some alternative treatments may improve appetite.
- Ginger and peppermint: These can help with nausea and digestive issues.
- Acupuncture: This may help with nausea and digestive issues while lowering stress.
Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for loss of appetite
Cannabis may help with appetite loss, but it should be used as part of a larger treatment plan. Talk to your doctor if you’re considering cannabis to improve appetite.
In some states, you can qualify for medical cannabis if you have a condition that causes appetite loss. To obtain a medical card, contact a Leafwell telehealth doctor today.
Frequently asked questions
Learn answers to FAQs about cannabis and appetite loss.
How does cannabis help with appetite loss?
THC in cannabis tells the brain to release hormones that cause hunger, which increases appetite.
What’s the best way to take cannabis for appetite loss?
Popular cannabis product types for appetite loss include:
- Edibles
- Tinctures
- Vaporizers
- Smokable flower
Edibles and tinctures may provide longer-lasting effects, while smoking and vaping products may work faster.
Are there cannabis- or cannabinoid-based medications for appetite stimulation?
Yes. The Dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros) and nabilone (Cesamet) are two FDA-approved synthetic THC medications that can help with appetite loss and nausea in those undergoing chemotherapy (for cancer or MS) or HIV/AIDS treatment.
Can cannabis cause appetite loss?
Some cannabinoids, like CBD and THCV, may reduce hunger.
In rare cases, heavy, long-term cannabis use may lead to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a rare condition that can cause nausea and vomiting, reducing appetite.
