Thc capsules
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THC Capsules: Pharmacokinetics, Efficacy, and Clinical Applications
Pharmacokinetics of THC Capsules
Impact of Fed vs. Fasted Conditions
The pharmacokinetics (PK) of THC capsules are significantly influenced by whether they are taken with food or on an empty stomach. Studies have shown that consuming a high-fat meal before taking THC capsules enhances the time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax) and the area under the curve (AUC0-24) for both THC and its active metabolite, 11-hydroxy-tetrahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC). This results in a reduced apparent volume of distribution (Vz/F) and apparent clearance (Cl/F) of THC1.
Sex Differences in THC Absorption
Sex differences also play a role in the pharmacokinetics of THC capsules. Females have been observed to have a significantly greater peak plasma concentration (Cmax) compared to males when taking 5 mg THC in a fasted state1.
Comparative Bioavailability
Comparative studies between dronabinol oral solutions and capsules have shown that both formulations are bioequivalent in terms of maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-∞). However, the oral solution exhibits quicker onset of detectable levels and lower intra-individual variability compared to capsules2 4.
Clinical Applications of THC Capsules
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV)
THC capsules have shown efficacy in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). A phase II/III trial demonstrated that adding an oral THC/CBD cannabis extract to standard anti-emetic prophylaxis significantly increased the proportion of patients achieving a complete response (no emesis and no use of rescue medications) during chemotherapy cycles8.
Cancer-Related Cachexia and Anorexia Syndrome (CACS)
In advanced cancer patients, dosage-controlled cannabis capsules have been evaluated for their effects on cancer-related cachexia and anorexia syndrome (CACS). The study found that a subset of patients experienced significant weight gain and reported improvements in appetite, mood, and quality of life5.
Chemosensory Perception in Cancer Patients
THC capsules may also improve chemosensory perception in cancer patients, enhancing taste and smell, which in turn can improve appetite and caloric intake. Patients treated with THC reported better food enjoyment and increased quality of sleep and relaxation3.
Stability and Storage
THC capsules are stable under various storage conditions, including frozen, refrigerated, and room temperature. Studies have shown that the capsules maintain over 97% of their initial THC concentration for up to three months, regardless of storage conditions, making them suitable for non-refrigerated automated dispensing systems6.
Conclusion
THC capsules offer a versatile and effective option for managing various conditions, particularly in cancer patients. Their pharmacokinetics are influenced by food intake and sex, and they provide significant benefits in managing CINV and CACS. The stability of THC capsules under different storage conditions further enhances their practicality for clinical use. Future research should continue to explore the variability in THC absorption to optimize therapeutic outcomes.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Human Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Orally Administered Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Capsules Are Altered by Fed Versus Fasted Conditions and Sex Differences.
THC capsules' pharmacokinetic parameters are altered by high-fat food, sex differences, and fasted conditions, with females showing greater peak plasma concentrations than males.
RCTA single-dose comparative bioavailability study of dronabinol oral solution versus dronabinol capsules in healthy volunteers.
Dronabinol oral solution 4.25 mg is bioequivalent to dronabinol capsules 5 mg, with a quicker onset of detectable levels and lower intra-individual variability compared to capsules.
RCT
Rigorous JournalDelta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol may palliate altered chemosensory perception in cancer patients: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial.
THC may improve taste and smell perception, appetite, caloric intake, and quality of life in cancer patients with chemosensory alterations.
RCTRigorous Journal
Highly CitedEffect of food on the pharmacokinetics of dronabinol oral solution versus dronabinol capsules in healthy volunteers.
Dronabinol oral solution has faster absorption and lower inter-individual variability compared to dronabinol capsules, potentially offering therapeutic benefits for patients.
RCTRigorous JournalThe Effects of Dosage-Controlled Cannabis Capsules on Cancer-Related Cachexia and Anorexia Syndrome in Advanced Cancer Patients: Pilot Study
Dosage-controlled cannabis capsules may increase weight in advanced cancer patients without significant side effects, warranting a larger study.
Non-RCTRigorous JournalStability of dronabinol capsules when stored frozen, refrigerated, or at room temperature.
Dronabinol capsules can be stored at room temperature for up to three months without compromising capsule appearance and with minimal reduction in 9-THC concentration.
Effects of THC on Behavioral Measures of Impulsivity in Humans
THC may increase certain forms of impulsive behavior while not affecting other impulsive behaviors, suggesting impulsivity is an assemblage of distinct components rather than a unitary process.
RCTHighly CitedCannabis extract for secondary prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: Results of a phase II/III, placebo-controlled, randomised trial.
Oral THC/CBD significantly increases the proportion of patients achieving a complete response in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and is well-tolerated by patients.
RCTA review of oral cannabinoids and medical marijuana for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a focus on pharmacokinetic variability and pharmacodynamics
Oral cannabinoids show potential in treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, but their effectiveness is limited by high pharmacokinetic variability and potential adverse effects.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedOral Administration of Cannabis and Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Preparations: A Systematic Review
Oral THC absorption is highly variable, with higher variability in baked goods and oil forms, highlighting the need for further investigations to enhance effectiveness and safety in medicinal use.
Systematic ReviewRigorous Journal