Cachexia
/kuh-KEK-see-uh/
A complex metabolic syndrome associated with underlying illness, characterized by severe weight loss, muscle wasting, fatigue, and anorexia. THC's appetite-stimulating effects are used in HIV/AIDS-related cachexia.
In Depth
Dronabinol (synthetic THC) is FDA-approved for anorexia associated with AIDS-related weight loss. THC stimulates appetite through CB1 receptor activation in the hypothalamus, increasing ghrelin sensitivity and food palatability. Clinical trials in cancer cachexia have shown mixed results — THC improves appetite but has not consistently improved weight or survival. The appetite-stimulating effects of THC are dose-dependent and may be limited by psychoactive side effects at higher doses.
Related Terms
Further Reading
More in Clinical
Dravet Syndrome
A severe, treatment-resistant form of childhood epilepsy characterized by prolonged seizures, often triggered by fever, beginning in the first year of life.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS)
A severe form of childhood-onset epilepsy characterized by multiple seizure types, slow spike-wave EEG pattern, and cognitive impairment.
Epidiolex
The FDA-approved pharmaceutical formulation of purified cannabidiol (CBD), manufactured by GW Pharmaceuticals (now Jazz Pharmaceuticals). Approved in 2018 for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Dronabinol (Marinol)
A synthetic form of THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol) approved by the FDA for chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting and AIDS-related anorexia.
Nabilone (Cesamet)
A synthetic cannabinoid analogue of THC approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. More potent than dronabinol.