Pediatric Patient Experiences Using Medical Cannabis in Cancer Symptom Management as Reported by Parents of Children and Adolescents and by Young Adults

Abstract

Background: Children, adolescents, and young adults (YAs) with cancer are using cannabis for therapeutic effects. A systematic review of cannabis in pediatric cancer patients found most studies focused on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting with some including general symptom management. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of pediatric cancer patients using cannabis obtained from a medical cannabis program to manage cancer-related symptoms. Method: Parents of children and adolescents under age 18, and YAs age 18 and older who were certified for a medical cannabis program were invited to participate. Using a 12-item anonymous survey, participants reported on what symptoms they hoped cannabis would improve, what symptoms were helped, and side effects experienced. Results: Fifteen parents and nine YAs responded. The symptoms participants were seeking help with were: nausea/vomiting, n = 20; appetite, n = 15; pain, n = 13; sadness/anxiety, n = 7; sleep, n = 7; and treat cancer, n = 5. Most (n = 17) reported they thought cannabis helped. The specific symptoms helped were: nausea/vomiting, n = 15; appetite, n = 13; pain, n = 9; sadness/anxiety, n = 10; sleep, n = 9; and treating cancer, n = 3. Five reported side effects of mental changes. Discussion: Results provide insight into experiences of pediatric oncology patients referred to the medical cannabis program. Medical cannabis pharmacies can provide an effective adjuvant intervention for pediatric cancer symptoms. Most reported that medical cannabis helped ease some distressing symptoms with minimal side effects, but not all experienced benefits.