S3 guideline of the DGEM/DGHO/ASORS/AKE (Clinical Nutrition in Oncology). Recommendation 23 (grade C, strong consensus): Cannabis preparations can be considered for appetite improvement in tumour cachexia and taste disorders. The evidence is inconsistent: one RCT (n=164, advanced carcinoma) showed no effect on appetite in two dosage forms; another RCT found under 2×2,5 mg THC/day in anorexia and taste disorder an improvement in taste and appetite with good tolerability (no increased side effects compared to placebo, better sleep quality and relaxation). Compared to progestins, cannabis preparations had a weaker appetite-stimulating effect, but led less frequently to impotence; other side effects (vomiting, fluid retention, central nervous system symptoms) occurred at the same frequency. Possible adverse effects: central nervous system effects, changes in consciousness, anxiety, at high doses hallucinations; prescription only per BtMVV.
The impediment to action advances action.