Nabilone (Cesamet)
A synthetic cannabinoid analogue of THC approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. More potent than dronabinol.
In Depth
Nabilone is approximately twice as potent as THC and has a longer duration of action. It is a Schedule II controlled substance. Unlike dronabinol, nabilone is a fully synthetic compound. It has also been studied off-label for fibromyalgia, PTSD-related nightmares, and chronic pain. Its higher potency increases both therapeutic potential and adverse effect risk compared to dronabinol.
Related Terms
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.
Nabiximols (Sativex)
A whole-plant cannabis extract containing a 1:1 ratio of THC:CBD, delivered as an oromucosal spray. Approved in over 30 countries for multiple sclerosis spasticity.