Dronabinol
Nausea, Anorexia ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Cannabinoid
Controlled Drug Substance
No
dronabinol
Summary
Dronabinol is used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, which is a cancer treatment, and to stimulate appetite in patients with AIDS-related weight loss, which is a condition where patients lose weight due to the disease.
Dronabinol works by affecting the brain areas that control nausea and appetite. It mimics natural cannabinoids, which are chemicals that help regulate mood, appetite, and pain, to reduce nausea and increase hunger.
The usual starting dose for adults is 2.5 mg twice daily, before lunch and dinner. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg per day. Dronabinol is taken orally, which means by mouth, in capsule form.
Common side effects of Dronabinol include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea, which is feeling sick to your stomach. These effects are usually mild to moderate and may vary from person to person.
Dronabinol can cause dizziness, confusion, or mood changes, which may impair your ability to drive. It should not be used if you are allergic to it or its ingredients. Caution is needed for those with a history of substance abuse or mental health disorders.
Indications and Purpose
How does Dronabinol work?
Dronabinol works by affecting the brain areas that control nausea and appetite. It mimics the action of natural cannabinoids in the body, which are chemicals that help regulate mood, appetite, and pain. Think of it like adjusting the volume on a radio to reduce nausea or increase hunger. This makes Dronabinol helpful for chemotherapy-induced nausea and AIDS-related weight loss.
Is Dronabinol effective?
Dronabinol is effective for treating nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and for stimulating appetite in patients with AIDS-related weight loss. It works by affecting the brain areas that control nausea and appetite. Clinical studies support its effectiveness in these conditions, showing significant improvement in symptoms for many patients.
What is Dronabinol?
Dronabinol is a medication that belongs to the class of cannabinoids. It works by affecting the brain areas that control nausea and appetite. It's primarily used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and to stimulate appetite in patients with AIDS-related weight loss. Dronabinol is a synthetic form of THC, which is the active component in cannabis.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Dronabinol?
Dronabinol is usually taken for short-term relief of symptoms like nausea or appetite loss. The duration depends on your condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will guide you on how long to take it. Always follow your doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns about the duration of use with them.
How do I dispose of Dronabinol?
Dispose of Dronabinol by taking it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If unavailable, mix the medication with an undesirable substance like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away in the trash. This prevents harm to people and the environment.
How do I take Dronabinol?
Take Dronabinol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually taken before meals, one to three times a day, depending on your condition. Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once.
How long does it take for Dronabinol to start working?
Dronabinol usually starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking it. The full therapeutic effect may take a few days to become noticeable, especially for appetite stimulation. Individual factors like metabolism and overall health can affect how quickly you notice benefits. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Dronabinol?
Store Dronabinol capsules at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep them in a tightly closed container. Do not store them in the bathroom, where humidity can affect the medication. Always keep Dronabinol out of reach of children and pets. Check the expiration date regularly and dispose of any unused or expired medication properly.
What is the usual dose of Dronabinol?
The usual starting dose of Dronabinol for adults is 2.5 mg twice daily, before lunch and dinner. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg per day. For elderly patients, a lower starting dose may be considered. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Dronabinol be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Dronabinol is not recommended while breastfeeding. There's limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it may affect the baby's development. We don't know how it might impact milk production. If you're breastfeeding and need treatment, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that allow you to nurse safely.
Can Dronabinol be taken safely while pregnant?
Dronabinol is not recommended during pregnancy due to limited evidence on its safety. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. Uncontrolled nausea during pregnancy can harm both mother and baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss safer treatment options with your doctor to manage your symptoms.
Can I take Dronabinol with other prescription drugs?
Dronabinol can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. It may enhance the effects of CNS depressants, which are drugs that slow brain activity, leading to increased drowsiness or dizziness. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe use of Dronabinol.
Does Dronabinol have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Dronabinol include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Serious side effects can include mood changes, confusion, or hallucinations. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Always inform your healthcare provider about any new or worsening symptoms while taking Dronabinol.
Does Dronabinol have any safety warnings?
Yes, Dronabinol has safety warnings. It can cause dizziness, confusion, or mood changes, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It may also increase heart rate and cause low blood pressure. If you experience severe side effects like hallucinations or seizures, seek medical help immediately. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is Dronabinol addictive?
Dronabinol can be habit-forming, as it contains a synthetic form of THC, which is the active component in cannabis. This can lead to psychological dependence. Signs of dependence include cravings and using more than prescribed. To prevent dependence, use Dronabinol exactly as prescribed by your doctor and discuss any concerns about addiction with them.
Is Dronabinol safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to Dronabinol's effects, such as dizziness or confusion, which can increase fall risk. It's important to start with a lower dose and monitor for side effects. Regular check-ups with your doctor can help ensure safe use. Discuss any concerns about using Dronabinol with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Dronabinol?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Dronabinol. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion. These effects can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness. If you choose to drink, limit your intake and be cautious of any symptoms that may arise. Discuss alcohol use with your doctor.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Dronabinol?
You can exercise while taking Dronabinol, but be cautious. This medication can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which might affect your balance and coordination. Start with light activities and see how your body responds. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, stop exercising and rest. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while on Dronabinol.
Is it safe to stop Dronabinol?
It's important to consult your doctor before stopping Dronabinol. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms like irritability, insomnia, or nausea. Your doctor might suggest gradually reducing your dose to minimize withdrawal effects. Always follow your doctor's guidance to ensure safe discontinuation of the medication.
What are the most common side effects of Dronabinol?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Dronabinol include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Dronabinol, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Dronabinol?
Dronabinol should not be used if you are allergic to it or its ingredients. It's contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to cannabinoids. Caution is needed for those with a history of substance abuse, mental health disorders, or heart problems. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before starting Dronabinol.
