THC and cannabis increase food intake in HIV positives
Researchers at the Columbia University in New York investigated the effects of 10, 20, and 30 mg of oral THC and cannabis cigarettes of different potencies (1.8, 2.8, and 3.9 percent THC) on food intake in two groups of HIV positive cannabis smokers in eight 7-hour sessions. One group consisted of 15 subjects with significant loss of muscle mass and the other of 15 subjects without loss of muscle mass.
The three different cannabis cigarettes and the two lower THC doses (10 and 20 mg) were well tolerated with few physical symptoms and significant increases in ratings of "good drug effect", while the highest dose of THC (30 mg) caused significant side effects in some participants. Both THC and cannabis increased caloric intake in the group with weight loss but not in the control group. The effects on cognitive performance were minor.
Authors conclude that "for experienced cannabis smokers with clinically significant muscle mass loss, both dronabinol (at acute doses at least four to eight times the current recommendation) and cannabis produce substantial and comparable increases in food intake without producing adverse effects."
(Source: Haney M, et al. Dronabinol and marijuana in HIV+ marijuana smokers: acute effects on caloric intake and mood. Psychopharmacology 2005 Mar 19; [Electronic publication ahead of print])
