Cannabidiol for Neuropathy in Colorectal Cancer

This trial tests whether cannabidiol (CBD), a compound from hemp, can help prevent nerve pain in individuals undergoing chemotherapy for colorectal cancer. Participants will receive either CBD with their usual cancer treatment or just the usual treatment. The researchers aim to determine if adding CBD makes chemotherapy more tolerable by reducing the risk of nerve problems. This trial may suit someone with advanced colorectal cancer who is about to begin a specific chemotherapy regimen and has no current nerve issues. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding how CBD works in people, offering participants the opportunity to explore its potential benefits.

You may need to stop certain medications before joining the trial, especially if you are using medical cannabis or medications that are contraindicated with CBD, like some anti-seizure or anti-psychotic drugs. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team to see if any changes are needed.

Research has shown that cannabidiol (CBD) may help manage symptoms of nerve damage caused by chemotherapy. One study found that taking 135 mg of CBD daily alleviated some symptoms without causing serious side effects. While these results are promising, it's important to note that this research remains in the early stages.

Researchers are excited about cannabidiol (CBD) for neuropathy in colorectal cancer because it offers a novel approach to pain management. Unlike the standard chemotherapy treatments, which primarily focus on attacking cancer cells, CBD is derived from hemp and can potentially alleviate neuropathic pain by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system. This unique mechanism might provide relief with fewer side effects than traditional pain medications, which often include opioids or other analgesics. Additionally, CBD could enhance the quality of life for patients undergoing chemotherapy by addressing pain and discomfort more effectively.

Research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) might help with nerve pain caused by chemotherapy, such as oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN). In animal studies, CBD has shown promise in easing nerve pain symptoms, but its effects on humans remain unclear. Some studies have found that CBD can reduce sensitivity to touch, a common issue in nerve pain. In this trial, one group of participants will receive hemp-derived CBD capsules alongside standard oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy to evaluate potential benefits. Early findings indicate that CBD might be safe and tolerable for patients undergoing chemotherapy, which is encouraging for its potential use in preventing nerve pain.¹²⁵⁶⁷