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Shalata W, Abu Saleh O, Tourkey L, Shalata S, Neime AE, Abu Juma’a A, Soklakova A, Tourkey L, Jama AA, Yakobson A. The Efficacy of Cannabis in Oncology Patient Care and Its Anti-Tumor Effects. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2909. [PMID: 39199679 PMCID: PMC11352579 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
As the legalization of medical cannabis expands across several countries, interest in its potential advantages among cancer patients and caregivers is burgeoning. However, patients seeking to integrate cannabis into their treatment often encounter frustration when their oncologists lack adequate information to offer guidance. This knowledge gap is exacerbated by the scarcity of published literature on the benefits of medical cannabis, leaving oncologists reliant on evidence-based data disheartened. This comprehensive narrative article, tailored for both clinicians and patients, endeavors to bridge these informational voids. It synthesizes cannabis history, pharmacology, and physiology and focuses on addressing various symptoms prevalent in cancer care, including insomnia, nausea and vomiting, appetite issues, pain management, and potential anti-cancer effects. Furthermore, by delving into the potential mechanisms of action and exploring their relevance in cancer treatment, this article aims to shed light on the potential benefits and effects of cannabis in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid Shalata
- The Legacy Heritage Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Medical School for International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Omar Abu Saleh
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Emek Medical Centre, Afula 18341, Israel
| | - Lena Tourkey
- The Legacy Heritage Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Sondos Shalata
- Nutrition Unit, Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya 22000, Israel
| | - Ala Eddin Neime
- Medical School for International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Ali Abu Juma’a
- Medical School for International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Arina Soklakova
- Medical School for International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Lama Tourkey
- Medical School for International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Ashraf Abu Jama
- The Legacy Heritage Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Alexander Yakobson
- The Legacy Heritage Center and Dr. Larry Norton Institute, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
- Medical School for International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel
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2
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Vigano M, Kubal S, Lu Y, Habib S, Samarani S, Cama G, Viau C, Farzin H, Koudieh N, Xia J, Ahmad A, Vigano A, Costiniuk CT. Impact of Cannabidiol and Exercise on Clinical Outcomes and Gut Microbiota for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Cancer Survivors: A Case Report. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:834. [PMID: 39065685 PMCID: PMC11279394 DOI: 10.3390/ph17070834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) remains a clinical challenge for up to 80% of breast cancer survivors. In an open-label study, participants underwent three interventions: standard care (duloxetine) for 1 month (Phase 1), oral cannabidiol (CBD) for 2 months (Phase 2), and CBD plus multi-modal exercise (MME) for another 2 months (Phase 3). Clinical outcomes and gut microbiota composition were assessed at baseline and after each phase. We present the case of a 52-year-old female with a history of triple-negative breast cancer in remission for over five years presenting with CIPN. She showed decreased monocyte counts, c-reactive protein, and systemic inflammatory index after each phase. Duloxetine provided moderate benefits and intolerable side effects (hyperhidrosis). She experienced the best improvement and least side effects with the combined (CBD plus MME) phase. Noteworthy were clinically meaningful improvements in CIPN symptoms, quality of life (QoL), and perceived physical function, as well as improvements in pain, mobility, hand/finger dexterity, and upper and lower body strength. CBD and MME altered gut microbiota, showing enrichment of genera that produce short-chain fatty acids. CBD and MME may improve CIPN symptoms, QoL, and physical function through anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in cancer survivors suffering from long-standing CIPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- MariaLuisa Vigano
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Sarah Kubal
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Yao Lu
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Sarah Habib
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Suzanne Samarani
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Georgina Cama
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Charles Viau
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Houman Farzin
- Division of Palliative Care, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Nebras Koudieh
- Division of Palliative Care, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Jianguo Xia
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Ali Ahmad
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Antonio Vigano
- Division of Supportive and Palliative Care, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Cecilia T. Costiniuk
- Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Chronic Viral Illness Service, Royal Victoria Hospital—Glen Site, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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3
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Peleg Hasson S, Shachar E, Brezis MR, Saad A, Toledano B, Michaan N, Laskov I, Grisaru D, Goldstein J, Nutman A, Safra T. Medical cannabis and its effect on oncological outcomes in patients with ovarian cancer treated with PARP inhibitors. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2024; 34:559-565. [PMID: 38242547 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2023-004953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) play a pivotal role in ovarian cancer management. With medical cannabis emerging as a novel component of supportive care, this study investigated the impact of medical cannabis use on oncological outcomes in patients with ovarian cancer undergoing PARPi therapy. METHODS The study included patients from a single institution database treated for ovarian cancer between January 2014 and January 2020 who received PARPi maintenance therapy in a first-line or recurrent disease setting after a confirmed response to platinum-based treatment. The study categorized patients as cannabis users and cannabis-naïve. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis and the Kaplan-Meier method were used to assess the effects of medical cannabis use on the duration of PARPi therapy, progression-free survival, and overall survival. RESULTS Among the eligible patients (n=93), most were cannabis-naïve (69%, n=64) while the rest used medical cannabis (31%, n=29). Medical cannabis use rates were comparable for patients receiving PARPi therapy post-primary treatment or for recurrence (42%, n=9, vs 27%, n=20; p=0.1). Both groups exhibited similar median duration for PARPi therapy (12.1 vs 9.5 months; p=0.89) and progression-free survival (20 vs 21 months; p=0.83). Kaplan-Meier analysis detected no differences in progression-free survival associated with cannabis use. Although cannabis users had an extended overall survival compared with the cannabis-naïve group (129.3 vs 99 months; p=0.03), cannabis use was insignificant for overall survival on multivariate analysis (p=0.10). Multivariate analysis showed stage IV at diagnosis (p=0.02) to be the sole factor associated with progression-free survival (p=0.02). CONCLUSION Medical cannabis usage in patients receiving PARPi treatment showed no association with duration of PARPi therapy, progression-free survival, or overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shira Peleg Hasson
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eliya Shachar
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Miriam R Brezis
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Akram Saad
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sheba Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology, Tel Hashomer, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Bar Toledano
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Nadav Michaan
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ido Laskov
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jeffrey Goldstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Amir Nutman
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| | - Tamar Safra
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Liktor-Busa E, Largent-Milnes TM. Natural Products Derived from Cannabis sativa for Pain Management. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38509238 DOI: 10.1007/164_2024_710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa is one of the oldest medicinal plants in human history. Even ancient physicians from hundreds of years ago used Cannabis sativa to treat several conditions like pain. In the modern era, the research community, including health-care providers, have witnessed wide-scale changes in cannabis policy, legislation, and marketing, with a parallel increase in patient interest. A simple search in PubMed using "cannabis and pain" as keywords provides more than 2,400 articles, about 80% of which were published in the last 8-10 years. Several advancements have been achieved in understanding the complex chemistry of cannabis along with its multiple pharmacological activities. Preclinical data have demonstrated evidence for the promising potential of cannabis for pain management, and the continuous rise in the prevalence of pain increases the urgency to translate this into clinical practice. Despite the large body of cannabis literature, researchers still need to find rigorous answers for the questions about the efficacy and safety of cannabis in treatment of certain disorders such as pain. In the current chapter, we seek to present a critical overview about the current knowledge on cannabis with special emphasis on pain-related disorders.
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Creanga-Murariu I, Filipiuc LE, Cuciureanu M, Tamba BI, Alexa-Stratulat T. Should oncologists trust cannabinoids? Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1211506. [PMID: 37521486 PMCID: PMC10373070 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1211506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis enjoyed a "golden age" as a medicinal product in the late 19th, early 20th century, but the increased risk of overdose and abuse led to its criminalization. However, the 21st century have witnessed a resurgence of interest and a large body of literature regarding the benefits of cannabinoids have emerged. As legalization and decriminalization have spread around the world, cancer patients are increasingly interested in the potential utility of cannabinoids. Although eager to discuss cannabis use with their oncologist, patients often find them to be reluctant, mainly because clinicians are still not convinced by the existing evidence-based data to guide their treatment plans. Physicians should prescribe cannabis only if a careful explanation can be provided and follow up response evaluation ensured, making it mandatory for them to be up to date with the positive and also negative aspects of the cannabis in the case of cancer patients. Consequently, this article aims to bring some clarifications to clinicians regarding the sometimes-confusing various nomenclature under which this plant is mentioned, current legislation and the existing evidence (both preclinical and clinical) for the utility of cannabinoids in cancer patients, for either palliation of the associated symptoms or even the potential antitumor effects that cannabinoids may have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Creanga-Murariu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Oncology Department, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Leontina Elena Filipiuc
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Magda Cuciureanu
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
- Pharmacology Department, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iași, Romania
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Michel A, Lee RT, Salehi E, Accordino MK. Improving Quality of Life During Chemotherapy: Cannabinoids, Cryotherapy, and Scalp Cooling. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e390428. [PMID: 37267515 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_390428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
There have been significant advances in the treatment of cancer in the past decade. However, patients continue to suffer from significant side effects of antineoplastic agents that greatly affect their quality of life (QOL), including chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), and chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). This review aims to provide an updated overview of emerging strategies for the management and prevention of these immediate and long-lasting side effects. The use of integrative medicine including cannabis continues to evolve in the realm of CINV and cancer-related anorexia. Although no pharmaceutical agent has been approved for the prevention of CIPN, cryotherapy, compression therapy and, more recently, cryocompression therapy have shown benefit in small trials, but there are concerns with tolerability especially related to cryotherapy. More data are necessary to determine an effective and tolerable option to prevent CIPN in large, randomized studies. Scalp cooling (SC), which has a similar mechanism to cryotherapy and compression therapy for CIPN prevention, has proven to be an effective and tolerable approach in randomized studies and has significantly limited CIA, an entity that definitively affects the QOL of patients living with cancer. Taken together, cannabis, cryotherapy, compression and cryocompression therapy, and SC all strive to improve the QOL of patients living with cancer by minimizing the side effects of chemotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alissa Michel
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Melissa K Accordino
- Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
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7
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Buchtova T, Beresova L, Chroma K, Pluhacek T, Beres T, Kaczorova D, Tarkowski P, Bartek J, Mistrik M. Cannabis-derived products antagonize platinum drugs by altered cellular transport. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114801. [PMID: 37137184 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids, a class of compounds derived from Cannabis sativa L., have recently become more widely accessible for public consumption in the form of diverse cannabis products, in parallel with weakening the measures that so far restricted their availability. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved several cannabis-derived drugs for management of various diseases as well as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Besides the attenuation of adverse effects of chemotherapy, numerous reports about cannabinoid-mediated anticancer effects further motivate cancer patients to support their therapy with such products. Here we present a set of preclinical data with human cell culture models, suggesting that cannabidiol and cannabis extracts may effectively counteract the anticancer effects of the clinically widely used standard-of-care platinum-based drugs. We show that even low concentrations of cannabinoids reduced the toxicity of cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and carboplatin, an effect which was accompanied by decreased platinum adduct formation and a set of commonly used molecular markers. Mechanistically, our results excluded the possibility that the observed enhanced survival of cancer cells was mediated transcriptionally. Instead, trace metal analyses strongly indicate an inhibitory impact of cannabinoids on intracellular platinum accumulation, thereby implicating changes in cellular transport and/or retention of these drugs as the likely cause of the observed biological effects. Our study raises the possibility that the desirable effect of counteracting adverse effects of chemotherapy might, at least for some cannabinoids, reflect impaired cellular availability, and consequently attenuation of the anticancer effects of platinum drugs. DATA AVAILABILITY: All data supporting the conclusions are available in the article and supplementary files. Raw data are available upon request from the corresponding author.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Buchtova
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Beresova
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Katarina Chroma
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Pluhacek
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, 17. listopadu 12, 771 46 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Tibor Beres
- Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Dominika Kaczorova
- Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Centre of the Region Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Department of Genetic Resources for Vegetables, Medicinal and Special Plants, Crop Research Institute, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Tarkowski
- Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic; Centre of the Region Haná for Biotechnological and Agricultural Research, Department of Genetic Resources for Vegetables, Medicinal and Special Plants, Crop Research Institute, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Bartek
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institute, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Mistrik
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic.
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D'Souza RS, Alvarez GAM, Dombovy-Johnson M, Eller J, Abd-Elsayed A. Evidence-Based Treatment of Pain in Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:99-116. [PMID: 37058254 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01107-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a debilitating and often painful condition that occurs after administration of chemotherapeutic agents. The primary objective of this systematic review was to appraise the literature on conservative, pharmacological, and interventional treatment options for CIPN pain. RECENT FINDINGS There is level I evidence supporting modest to moderate improvement in CIPN pain from duloxetine treatment, as well as short-term modest improvement from physical therapy and acupuncture. Although opioid and cannabis administration may provide short-term modest improvement, administration is commonly limited by side effects. Generally, most studies reported no clinical benefit from yoga, topical neuropathic agents, gabapentinoids, and tricyclic antidepressants. Evidence is currently equivocal for scrambler therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Finally, evidence on neuromodulation options is limited to mostly case reports/series and one observational study highlighting moderate improvement with auricular nerve stimulation. This systematic review provides an overview of conservative, pharmacologic, and interventional treatment modalities for CIPN pain. Furthermore, it provides a level of evidence and degree of recommendation based on the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) criteria for each specific treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S D'Souza
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Hospital, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Marissa Dombovy-Johnson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic Hospital, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jennifer Eller
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Hospital, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alaa Abd-Elsayed
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
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9
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Waissengrin B, Leshem Y, Taya M, Meiri D, Merimsky O, Shamai S, Wolf I, Rubinek T. The use of medical cannabis concomitantly with immune checkpoint inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer: A sigh of relief? Eur J Cancer 2023; 180:52-61. [PMID: 36535195 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2022.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of medical cannabis has rapidly increased among cancer patients worldwide. Cannabis is often administered concomitantly with cancer medications, including immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). As the cannabinoid receptors are abundantly expressed and modulate immune cells, it has been hypothesised that cannabis may attenuate the activity of ICIs. We aimed to assess the effect of cannabis on ICIs' efficiency in patients having non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHOD The murine model of CT26 tumour-bearing mice treated with an anti-PD-1 antibody and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was used to evaluate the interaction between THC and ICIs in vivo. Correlation between use of medical cannabis and clinical outcome was evaluated in a cohort of 201 consecutive metastatic NSCLC patients treated with monotherapy pembrolizumab as a first-line treatment. RESULTS Median overall survival (OS) of the mice receiving a control vehicle, THC, anti-PD-1 antibody or their combination was 21, 24, 31 and 54 days, respectively (p < 0.05 for the combination treatment compared to a control vehicle), indicating that THC did not reduce the efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy. Of 201 NSCLC patients treated with first-line monotherapy pembrolizumab for metastatic disease, 102 (50.7%) patients received licence for cannabis within the first month of treatment. Cannabis-treated patients were younger compared to the cannabis naïve patients (median age 68 versus 74, p = 0.003), with female predominance (62, 60.8% versus 34, 34.3%, p = 0.002) and with more prevailing brain metastasis (15.7% versus 5%, p = 0.013). Similar distribution of histology, smoking status, ECOG (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group) and programmed death-ligand 1 expression was noted between the groups. Liver metastases were marginally significant (19.6% versus 10.1%, p = 0.058). The most common indication for cannabis was pain (71%) followed by loss of appetite (34.3%). Time to tumour progression was similar for cannabis-naive and cannabis-treated patients (6.1 versus 5.6 months, respectively, 95% confidence interval, 0.82 to 1.38, p = 0.386), while OS was numerically higher in the cannabis-naive group (54.9 versus 23.6 months) but did not reach statistical significance (95% confidence interval 0.99 to 2.51, p = 0.08). In multivariate analyses, we did not identify cannabis use as an independent predictor factor for mortality. CONCLUSIONS Preclinical and clinical data suggest no deleterious effect of cannabis on the activity of pembrolizumab as first-line monotherapy for advanced NSCLC. The differences in OS can most likely be attributed to higher disease burden and more symptomatic disease in the cannabis-treated group. These data provide reassurance regarding the absence of a deleterious effect of cannabis in this clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barliz Waissengrin
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yasmin Leshem
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Marwa Taya
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - David Meiri
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Ofer Merimsky
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sivan Shamai
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ido Wolf
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Tami Rubinek
- Oncology Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv, Israel
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10
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Cherkasova V, Wang B, Gerasymchuk M, Fiselier A, Kovalchuk O, Kovalchuk I. Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids for Treatment of Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5142. [PMID: 36291926 PMCID: PMC9600568 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an ancient homeostasis mechanism operating from embryonic stages to adulthood. It controls the growth and development of many cells and cell lineages. Dysregulation of the components of the ECS may result in uncontrolled proliferation, adhesion, invasion, inhibition of apoptosis and increased vascularization, leading to the development of various malignancies. Cancer is the disease of uncontrolled cell division. In this review, we will discuss whether the changes to the ECS are a cause or a consequence of malignization and whether different tissues react differently to changes in the ECS. We will discuss the potential use of cannabinoids for treatment of cancer, focusing on primary outcome/care-tumor shrinkage and eradication, as well as secondary outcome/palliative care-improvement of life quality, including pain, appetite, sleep, and many more factors. Finally, we will complete this review with the chapter on sex- and gender-specific differences in ECS and response to cannabinoids, and equality of the access to treatments with cannabinoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriia Cherkasova
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Marta Gerasymchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Anna Fiselier
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Igor Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4, Canada
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Nielsen SW, Hasselsteen SD, Dominiak HSH, Labudovic D, Reiter L, Dalton SO, Herrstedt J. Oral cannabidiol for prevention of acute and transient chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:9441-9451. [PMID: 35933415 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07312-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the safety, dosing, and preventive effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in patients receiving oxaliplatin- or paclitaxel-based chemotherapy. METHODS Patients with cancer scheduled to undergo treatment with carboplatin and paclitaxel (Carbo-Tax) or capecitabine and oxaliplatin (CAPOX) received 150 mg CBD oil twice daily (300 mg/daily) for 8 days beginning 1 day before initiation of chemotherapy. Ten CIPN-specific patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures were captured at baseline and each day after the first cycle of chemotherapy for 8 days. Multi-frequency vibrometry (MF-V) was captured at baseline and day 4 ± 1 after initiation of chemotherapy. Controls were obtained from a similar patient cohort that did not receive CBD. Adverse events were captured using the CTCAE ver. 4.03. RESULTS From March to December 2021, 54 patients were recruited. CBD-treated patients were significantly older (p = 0.013/0.037, CAPOX/Carbo-Tax) compared to controls. Patients receiving CBD and CAPOX or Carbo-Tax showed significantly lower (better) change in Z-scores in high-frequency MF-V (125 and 250 Hz) compared to controls. This difference was most pronounced for patients receiving Carbo-Tax (- 1.76, CI-95 = [- 2.52; - 1.02] at 250 Hz). CAPOX patients treated with CBD had significantly lower peak baseline-adjusted difference in three PRO items on cold sensitivity to touch, discomfort swallowing cold liquids, and throat discomfort (- 2.08, - 2.06, and - 1.81, CI-95 = [- 3.89; - 0.12], NRS 0-10). No significant differences in PRO items were found for patients receiving Carbo-Tax. Possible side effects included stomach pain (grades 1-2) for patients receiving CAPOX. CONCLUSION CBD attenuated early symptoms of CIPN with no major safety concerns. Long-term follow-up is ongoing. Results should be confirmed in a larger, randomized study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT 04,167,319 (U.S National Library of Medicine; ClinicalTrials.gov). Date of registration: November 18, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian W Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Simone Dyring Hasselsteen
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Helena Sylow Heilmann Dominiak
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Dejan Labudovic
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lars Reiter
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Susanne Oksbjerg Dalton
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.,Survivorship & Inequality in Cancer, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørn Herrstedt
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Vestermarksvej 9, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Current and Emerging Pharmacotherapeutic Interventions for the Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050607. [PMID: 35631433 PMCID: PMC9144529 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve disorders are caused by a range of different aetiologies. The range of causes include metabolic conditions such as diabetes, obesity and chronic kidney disease. Diabetic neuropathy may be associated with severe weakness and the loss of sensation, leading to gangrene and amputation in advanced cases. Recent studies have indicated a high prevalence of neuropathy in patients with chronic kidney disease, also known as uraemic neuropathy. Immune-mediated neuropathies including Guillain-Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy may cause significant physical disability. As survival rates continue to improve in cancer, the prevalence of treatment complications, such as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, has also increased in treated patients and survivors. Notably, peripheral neuropathy associated with these conditions may be chronic and long-lasting, drastically affecting the quality of life of affected individuals, and leading to a large socioeconomic burden. This review article explores some of the major emerging clinical and experimental therapeutic agents that have been investigated for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy due to metabolic, toxic and immune aetiologies.
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13
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Abrams DI. Cannabis, Cannabinoids and Cannabis-Based Medicines in Cancer Care. Integr Cancer Ther 2022; 21:15347354221081772. [PMID: 35225051 PMCID: PMC8882944 DOI: 10.1177/15347354221081772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
As medical cannabis becomes legal in more states, cancer patients are increasingly interested in the potential utility of the ancient botanical in their treatment regimen. Although eager to discuss cannabis use with their oncologist, patients often find that their provider reports that they do not have adequate information to be helpful. Oncologists, so dependent on evidence-based data to guide their treatment plans, are dismayed by the lack of published literature on the benefits of medical cannabis. This results largely from the significant barriers that have existed to effectively thwart the ability to conduct trials investigating the potential therapeutic efficacy of the plant. This is a narrative review aimed at clinicians, summarizing cannabis phytochemistry, trials in the areas of nausea and vomiting, appetite, pain and anticancer activity, including assessment of case reports of antitumor use, with reflective assessments of the quality and quantity of evidence. Despite preclinical evidence and social media claims, the utility of cannabis, cannabinoids or cannabis-based medicines in the treatment of cancer remains to be convincingly demonstrated. With an acceptable safety profile, cannabis and its congeners may be useful in managing symptoms related to cancer or its treatment. Further clinical trials should be conducted to evaluate whether the preclinical antitumor effects translate into benefit for cancer patients. Oncologists should familiarize themselves with the available database to be able to better advise their patients on the potential uses of this complementary botanical therapy.
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14
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Mezzanotte JN, Grimm M, Shinde NV, Nolan T, Worthen-Chaudhari L, Williams NO, Lustberg MB. Updates in the Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2022; 23:29-42. [PMID: 35167004 PMCID: PMC9642075 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-021-00926-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common toxicity associated with treatment with platinum-based agents, taxanes, vinca alkaloids, and other specific agents. The long-term consequences of this condition can result in decreased patient quality of life and can lead to reduced dose intensity, which can negatively impact disease outcomes. There are currently no evidence-based preventative strategies for CIPN and only limited options for treatment. However, there are several strategies that can be utilized to improve patient experience and outcomes as more data are gathered in the prevention and treatment setting. Before treatment, patient education on the potential side effects of chemotherapy is key, and although trials have been limited, recommending exercise and a healthy lifestyle before and while undergoing chemotherapy may provide some overall benefit. In patients who develop painful CIPN, our approach is to offer duloxetine and titrate up to 60 mg daily. Chemotherapy doses may also need to be reduced if intolerable symptoms develop during treatment. Some patients may also try acupuncture and physical therapy to help address their symptoms, although this can be limited by cost, time commitment, and patient motivation. Additionally, data on these modalities are currently limited, as studies are ongoing. Overall, approaching each patient on an individual level and tailoring treatment options for them based on overall physical condition, their disease burden, goals of care and co-morbid health conditions, and willingness to trial different approaches is necessary when addressing CIPN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica N. Mezzanotte
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 395 W 12th Avenue, Room 334B, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Michael Grimm
- The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, 460 W. 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Namrata V. Shinde
- Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 395 W 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Timiya Nolan
- The Ohio State University College of Nursing, 1585 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Lise Worthen-Chaudhari
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 480 Medical Center Drive, Dodd Hall, Suite 1060, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Nicole O. Williams
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1800 Cannon Drive, 1310K Lincoln Tower, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Maryam B. Lustberg
- Smilow Cancer Hospital/Yale Cancer Center, 35 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06519
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Endocannabinoid System Attenuates Oxaliplatin-Induced Peripheral Sensory Neuropathy Through the Activation of CB1 Receptors. Neurotox Res 2021; 39:1782-1799. [PMID: 34792764 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-021-00442-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity is expressed as a dose-limiting peripheral sensory neuropathy (PSN). Cannabinoid substances have been investigated for the analgesic effect. This study aimed to investigate the role of cannabinoid receptors in oxaliplatin-associated PSN. Swiss male mice received nine oxaliplatin injections (2 mg/kg, i.v.). Mechanical and thermal nociceptive tests were performed for 56 days. CB1, CB2, and c-Fos expression were assessed in dorsal root ganglia (DRG), spinal cord (SC), trigeminal ganglia (TG), spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (Sp5C), and periaqueductal gray (PAG). Iba-1 expression was assessed in DRG and ATF3 in TG. Cannabidiol (10 mg/kg, p.o.) or a CB1/CB2 non-selective agonist (WIN 55,212-2; 0.5 mg/kg, s.c.) or AM251 (CB1 antagonist) or AM630 (CB2 antagonist) (3 mg/kg, i.p.) were injected before oxaliplatin. Oxaliplatin increased CB1 in DRG, SC, TG, Sp5C, and ventrolateral PAG, with no interference in CB2 expression. Cannabidiol increased CB1 in DRG, reduced mechanical hyperalgesia and c-Fos expression in DRG and SC. Additionally, WIN 55,212-2 increased CB1 in DRG, reduced mechanical hyperalgesia, cold allodynia and c-Fos expression in DRG and SC. CB1 blockage hastened the cold allodynia response, but the CB2 antagonist failed to modulate the oxaliplatin-induced nociceptive behavior. Oxaliplatin also increased Iba-1 in DRG, suggesting immune response modulation which was reduced by cannabidiol and enhanced by AM630. The modulation of the endocannabinoid system, through the CB1 receptor, attenuates the oxaliplatin-associated PNS. The activation of the endocannabinoid system could be considered as a therapeutic target for controlling oxaliplatin-associated neuropathy.
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