Summary:
- The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is examining key questions about the potential use of medical marijuana to treat cancer-related symptoms and pain, including as an alternative to opioid painkillers.
- The NCI is looking at the scientific evidence on the efficacy and safety of cannabis-based products for managing cancer-related pain, nausea, and other side effects of cancer treatment.
- The agency is also exploring the role of cannabis as a potential opioid alternative for cancer patients, as the opioid crisis has led to a need for non-addictive pain management options.