PALL-07. COMPLEMENTARY CANNABIS THERAPY FOR MALIGNANT GLIOMA: INITIAL EXPERIENCE

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: We report on our initial experience with complementary cannabis therapy in malignant glioma patients. BACKGROUND: Cannabis treatment for certain medical conditions is currently available in Connecticut and 28 other states. Reports exist on the palliative usage of cannabis for brain tumor symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, pain, anxiety and depression. Evidence also suggests a therapeutic role of cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), to treat glioblastoma in cell cultures and animal models. METHODS: 20 malignant glioma patients in our center have been certified in for cannabis treatment in Connecticut. These 20 patients represent 12 glioblastoma, 3 anaplastic astrocytoma, and 5 astrocytoma cases. Patients were stratified into three categories: Low Use (less than 2 days per week), Palliative Use (4-7 days per week, for symptomatic treatment), and Therapeutic Use (7 days per week, for complementary therapeutic treatment). All patients also received standard therapies. RESULTS: Four patients had Low Use. In all cases, caregivers urged the patient to consider cannabis treatment. Six patients employed a Palliative Use strategy; 4 of these patients had astrocytoma, with symptoms including nausea and headache. Treatment generally consisted of smoking cannabis oil with a vaporizer, and it was reported to be effective by all patients. Ten patients employed a Therapeutic Use strategy; 8 of these patients had glioblastoma. Treatment consisted of either ingested cannabis oil concentrate, or sublingual cannabis oral spray. 7 of 8 glioblastoma patients are currently alive, with cannabis use ranging from 2-30 months. Common observed side effects of cannabis treatment included mild fatigue. Euphoria, dizziness, hallucinations, weakness and headaches were not observed. CONCLUSIONS: Cannabis appears well tolerated in malignant glioma patients. Our experience suggests beneficial palliative effects with low toxicity. It is too early to draw conclusions on therapeutic use.