Can marijuana prevent weight loss?

From the Guidelines

Marijuana does not prevent weight loss and may actually have a limited role in improving appetite in patients with cancer-related anorexia/cachexia, as evidenced by a randomized clinical trial that did not demonstrate a benefit of cannabis extract and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol over placebo on appetite and quality of life 1. Despite the common belief that marijuana causes increased appetite, research suggests that regular cannabis users tend to have lower body weights and lower rates of obesity compared to non-users. This seemingly contradictory effect may be related to how cannabinoids affect metabolism and fat storage in the body. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive compound in marijuana, can temporarily increase appetite, but it may also increase metabolism and alter how the body processes carbohydrates. However, the limited and inconsistent evidence does not support a recommendation for the use of marijuana to prevent weight loss, as stated in the espen guidelines on nutrition in cancer patients 1. Instead, established methods like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and consultation with healthcare providers are more reliable approaches to managing weight loss. Additionally, other appetite stimulators like megestrol acetate have shown improved appetite and weight gain in patients with cancer-related anorexia/cachexia, and may be considered as part of a combination therapy approach 1. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of marijuana use, particularly in elderly patients, where it may induce delirium, and to be aware of local state rules and regulations regarding its use. Some studies suggest that marijuana may have a role in improving chemosensory perception and appetite in patients with cancer anorexia, but the evidence is limited and inconsistent, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects 1. In summary, while marijuana may have some potential benefits in improving appetite, its use should be approached with caution, and other established methods should be prioritized for managing weight loss. Key points to consider include:

• Marijuana does not prevent weight loss and may have a limited role in improving appetite in patients with cancer-related anorexia/cachexia
• Established methods like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and consultation with healthcare providers are more reliable approaches to managing weight loss
• Other appetite stimulators like megestrol acetate may be considered as part of a combination therapy approach
• Marijuana use should be approached with caution, particularly in elderly patients, and local state rules and regulations should be considered.

From the FDA Drug Label

Studies of AIDS-related weight loss included 157 patients receiving dronabinol at a dose of 2. 5 mg twice daily and 67 receiving placebo. The answer to whether marijuana can prevent weight loss is not directly addressed by the information provided in the drug label for dronabinol. However, the label does mention AIDS-related weight loss and the use of dronabinol as an appetite stimulant.

• The label states that dronabinol was used in studies for AIDS-related weight loss, but it does not explicitly state that it prevents weight loss.
• It does mention that dronabinol is used as an appetite stimulant, which could potentially lead to weight gain, but this is not the same as preventing weight loss. Since the label does not directly address the question of whether marijuana (or dronabinol, a cannabinoid) can prevent weight loss, no conclusion can be drawn 2.

From the Research

Marijuana and Weight Loss

• The relationship between marijuana use and weight loss is complex, with some studies suggesting that marijuana may actually increase appetite and food intake, potentially leading to weight gain rather than weight loss 3.
• However, other studies have found that marijuana users tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI) than non-users, suggesting that marijuana may have a role in regulating weight 4, 5.
• The active ingredient in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been shown to increase appetite and food intake in some studies, which could potentially prevent weight loss 6, 3.
• On the other hand, some studies have suggested that THC or a combination of THC and other cannabinoids may have a therapeutic effect on obesity and weight loss, potentially by reducing inflammation and improving metabolic function 4, 5.

Mechanisms of Marijuana's Effect on Weight

• The endocannabinoid system, which is activated by THC and other cannabinoids, plays a role in regulating appetite and food intake, and may be involved in the development of obesity 7.
• Cannabinoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation associated with obesity and improve metabolic function 5.
• However, the exact mechanisms by which marijuana affects weight and appetite are not fully understood and require further study.

Clinical Implications

• While some studies suggest that marijuana may have a therapeutic effect on obesity and weight loss, the evidence is not yet conclusive, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between marijuana use and weight loss 4, 6, 5.
• Marijuana should not be used as a substitute for established treatments for obesity and weight loss, and individuals who are trying to lose weight should consult with a healthcare professional before using marijuana or any other substance.