The role of cannabinoids in the management of symptoms in palliative care patients

Abstract

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates body’s homeostasis and performs vital physiological functions. The thorough understanding of the role of endocannabinoids and the composition of cannabis containing phytocannabinoids and terpenoids play an important role in symptom management. Clinical effects of medical cannabis depend among others on the activity of the ECS in a given patient, the proportion of phytocannabinoids, and the doses used. Cannabinoids are used to treat symptoms in patients with cancer and chronic non-malignant diseases. Cannabinoids are usually not drugs of first choice and can be added to basic pharmacotherapy, which often improves the effectiveness of symptom treatment. Due to limited scientific evidence, experimental studies on the role of the ECS and clinical trials on the use of cannabinoids in the treatment of symptoms are recommended. In this article the role of the ECS and the use of cannabinoids in palliative care patients has been discussed.