Group of diseases involving uncontrolled cell growth. Cannabis and cannabinoids have substantial evidence for treating chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and moderate evidence for improving sleep disturbance among cancer patients; antitumor effects remain investigational.
What it is
Cancer is a group of more than 100 diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Treatment commonly combines surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and increasingly targeted or immunotherapeutic agents. Symptom burden (pain, nausea, appetite loss, sleep disruption, anxiety) is substantial and often persists beyond active treatment.
Cancer is a qualifying condition under every comprehensive US medical cannabis program. It is one of the most common diagnoses for which patients enter state registries.
Cannabis and cannabis-derived therapies
The 2017 NASEM consensus report identified conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective antiemetics in adults receiving chemotherapy. Two FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoids (dronabinol and nabilone) are indicated for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) that has not responded to conventional antiemetics.
NASEM also found limited evidence of improvement in cancer-associated anorexia/cachexia (loss of appetite and body mass) with cannabinoid use, and limited evidence for sleep-disturbance improvement among cancer patients.
Antitumor effects of cannabinoids remain at the preclinical and early-clinical research stage. Cannabis is not a substitute for evidence-based cancer therapy, and patients should coordinate cannabis use with their oncology care team to avoid interactions with chemotherapy and immunotherapy regimens.
State eligibility for Cancer
| State | Qualifies? | Program |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | Yes | Florida OMMU |
| Georgia | Yes | GMCC Low-THC Registry |
| Texas | Yes | Texas Compassionate Use Program |
If your state lists Cancer as a qualifying condition, a Miracle Leaf® physician can evaluate you for certification.
Frequently asked questions
Is cannabis FDA-approved to treat cancer?
No. Cannabis itself is not FDA-approved as a cancer treatment. Two synthetic cannabinoids are FDA-approved as antiemetics for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in patients who have failed standard therapy: dronabinol (Marinol) and nabilone (Cesamet). Plant cannabis is not FDA-approved for any oncology indication.
What does NASEM say about cannabis for chemotherapy nausea?
The 2017 NASEM consensus report concluded there is conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective antiemetics in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. This is the highest evidence tier in the NASEM report.
Does cannabis treat the cancer itself?
There is no established clinical evidence that cannabis or cannabinoids cure, shrink, or directly treat tumors in humans. Antitumor research remains preclinical and investigational. NIH's National Cancer Institute states that cannabinoid effects on cancer growth in patients remain unproven.
Which cancer-related symptoms is cannabis used for?
Across US medical-cannabis programs, cancer patients most commonly use cannabis for chemotherapy-induced nausea, treatment-related anorexia and cachexia, pain, and sleep disturbance. Evidence strength varies by symptom. Strong for chemotherapy nausea, moderate for sleep, limited or insufficient for direct anti-tumor effect.
Patient guidance from Miracle Leaf®
Cannabis is one of several treatment options patients with cancer may consider. Our physicians evaluate each patient against the qualifying-condition criteria of their state program and discuss expected benefits and risks based on current clinical evidence. We coordinate with your other treating clinicians where appropriate.
Miracle Leaf® brand products including CBD, Delta-8, and low-THC formulations are available for in-store pickup and nationwide shipping through Miracle Leaf® Store.
Sources and citations
- NASEM: The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
“Conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabinoids are effective antiemetics in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.” - NIH National Cancer Institute: Cannabis and Cannabinoids (PDQ)
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17. This page summarizes current peer-reviewed evidence and federal guidance, and is updated whenever the source documents materially change. Not medical advice — consult a licensed clinician before starting or modifying any treatment.