Marinol, or dronabinol, is a prescription medication that consists of synthetic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), an ingredient found in marijuana. Marinol is also known as man-made medical marijuana, according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. This drug has been thoroughly examined by the Food and Drug Administration and does not have the harmful chemicals that marijuana has. Patients with complications from cancer chemotherapy or AIDS can benefit from using marinol.
Dosage
According to drugwatch.com, Marinol comes in dosages of 2.5, 5 or 10 milligrams. Dosages may vary among individuals, depending on the reason for taking the medication and the general health of the individual. Total daily dosages should not exceed 20 milligrams, says drugwatch.com. If Marinol is being used to stimulate appetite, it is generally taken before lunch and dinner, says drugs.com. If it is being used to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, Marinol is typically given one to three hours before chemotherapy, and every two to four hours afterward.
Function
Marinol works by blocking a chemical in the brain called neurokinin that stimulates nausea and vomiting, says drugwatch.com. Because of this function, Marinol is often prescribed with other drugs to help control nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy when other drugs have not been effective. This drug is also used with individuals with AIDS to stimulate their appetites.
Side Effects
Marinol might cause side effects, but not everyone will experience every side effect. Possible effects include mood changes, trouble concentrating, lack of coordination, nausea, diarrhea, insomnia and a tingly feeling. Some people may have more serious effects, including seizure, rapid heart rate, fainting, paranoia and extreme fear, as listed by drugs.com. If these symptoms occur, your health care provider should be contacted immediately.
Considerations
Some drugs you are taking can have adverse reactions with Marinol. Telling your health care provider about the medications you are on can help prevent this. Drugwatch.com lists types of drugs that Marinol may interact with, including blood thinners, antidepressants, sedatives, benzodiazepines, antihistamines, anticonvulsants and anti-anxiety medications.
Warning
Marinol might be habit-forming, warns drugs.com. It should not be given to individuals who have a history of marijuana use or drug addiction, and you should not take Marinol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the drug can harm an unborn baby or be passed through breastmilk and possibly harm the baby.
Member Comments