What conditions are FDA-approved cannabis-derived drugs indicated to treat?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved cannabis-derived medications for the treatment of specific medical conditions. These medications include synthetic forms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and a liquid formulation containing purified cannabidiol (CBD). Medications containing THC are used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, and dronabinol is also used for weight-loss-related anorexia in patients with AIDS. The liquid medication containing CBD has been approved to treat seizures associated with specific syndromes in patients aged one year and older [4].

FDA-Approved Medications Containing Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

The FDA has approved synthetic forms of THC, such as dronabinol and nabilone, to treat certain conditions. Dronabinol and nabilone are primarily used to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, particularly in patients who have not responded to conventional anti-emetic therapies [3]. Additionally, dronabinol is used to treat anorexia and weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS [2]. These medications function by acting on the brain and central nervous system to reduce these symptoms.

What are the approved uses of medicinal cannabidiol?

The FDA has approved Epidiolex, an oral solution containing purified cannabidiol, for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex in patients one year of age and older. Approval is specific to these indications and the particular drug formulation; it does not cover all types of epilepsy, nor does it make any oil or supplement sold as cannabidiol an equivalent substitute. Furthermore, the term "FDA-approved drug" does not imply that its use is appropriate for every patient without medical evaluation and monitoring [4].

The Difference Between Medical Cannabis and Approved Medications

It is important to distinguish between the entire cannabis plant and FDA-approved cannabis-derived medications. The FDA has not approved the entire cannabis plant for any medical use [2]. Instead, approvals are limited to specific drugs containing individual cannabis components, such as synthetic THC or purified CBD, which have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their efficacy and safety for specific conditions [1]. This means that products containing the entire cannabis plant or its unapproved extracts may not be subject to the same quality and efficacy standards.

Ongoing Research and Future Considerations

Researchers continue to study whether cannabis and its components may treat further conditions [1]. However, research into the use of cannabis or cannabinoids for other conditions remains in the early stages [2]. Patients considering the use of cannabis products for medical purposes should consult their physicians to discuss potential benefits and risks, and ensure they receive appropriate care for their health condition. You can learn more about Medical Cannabis: Benefits, Risks, and Legal Status (Arabic) for broader information.

Medical references

• Cannabis
• Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know
• Cannabis and Cannabinoids (PDQ®)–Patient Version
• FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD) | FDA