Why is this medication prescribed?

Cesamet (generic name: nabilone) is a synthetic cannabinoid that is prescribed primarily for two main medical purposes:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Cesamet is often prescribed to help relieve nausea and vomiting in patients who are undergoing chemotherapy that has not responded adequately to conventional antiemetic treatments.
• Pain Management: It can also be used as an adjunctive treatment for chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain, when other medications have not been effective.

How should this medicine be used?

Cesamet comes in capsule form and should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: The dosage of Cesamet varies depending on the condition being treated and individual patient response. It is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased as needed under medical supervision.
• Administration: Cesamet capsules are taken orally with or without food. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding when and how often to take the medication.
• Duration of Use: The duration of Cesamet treatment is determined by the healthcare provider based on the individual patient’s response and medical condition. It is usually used for short-term relief of symptoms such as nausea during chemotherapy.
• Medical Supervision: Cesamet should only be used under close medical supervision. It is important not to exceed the prescribed dosage or change the dosing schedule without consulting a healthcare provider.
• Side Effects: Like all medications, Cesamet can cause side effects. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and euphoria. More serious side effects can occur, so it’s important to report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider promptly.
• Interactions: Cesamet may interact with other medications, including alcohol and certain other drugs. It is important to disclose all medications and supplements being taken to the prescribing healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions.
• Discontinuation: When discontinuing Cesamet, it is typically tapered off gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms or recurrence of symptoms.

Overall, Cesamet is prescribed for specific medical conditions where other treatments have been inadequate, and its use should be carefully monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure safety and efficacy.

Other uses for this medicine

Cesamet may also be prescribed off-label for other conditions such as:

• Chronic pain: Some studies and clinical experiences suggest that nabilone (Cesamet) may help in managing chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain.
• Appetite stimulation: Like other cannabinoids, Cesamet might be used to stimulate appetite in certain medical conditions where appetite loss is a concern.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Cesamet, there are several important precautions to consider:

• Driving and Operating Machinery: Cesamet can cause dizziness and drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how Cesamet affects you.
• Substance Use: Cesamet may have additive effects with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption or use of other drugs without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Psychiatric Effects: Cesamet may cause mood changes, confusion, hallucinations, or paranoia, especially in individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders. Monitor closely for any unusual changes in mood or behavior.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Cesamet can cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Individuals with cardiovascular conditions should use Cesamet with caution and under medical supervision.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Cesamet in pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been established. Consult your healthcare provider before using Cesamet if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Liver Function: Cesamet is metabolized by the liver. Individuals with liver impairment should use Cesamet cautiously, and dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Cesamet may interact with other medications, including sedatives, antidepressants, and antihypertensive drugs. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Cesamet, including dosage adjustments and any necessary monitoring.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Cesamet. However, it’s generally advisable to maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated, especially if experiencing nausea or changes in appetite as side effects of Cesamet.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Cesamet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cesamet (nabilone) can cause several side effects, ranging from mild to potentially serious. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to promptly inform your healthcare provider if you experience any of them. Common side effects of Cesamet include:

• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady.
• Drowsiness: Feeling sleepy or lethargic.
• Dry mouth: A sensation of dryness in the mouth.
• Euphoria: A feeling of intense happiness or excitement.
• Impaired coordination: Difficulty with balance or coordination.
• Memory impairment: Difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
• Confusion: Feeling disoriented or mentally unclear.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headache.
• Nervousness: Feeling anxious or jittery.
• Changes in mood: Mood swings or emotional changes.
• Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real.
• Paranoia: Irrational feelings of fear or suspicion.

Less common but potentially serious side effects of Cesamet may include:

• Severe dizziness or drowsiness: These can impair your ability to function safely.
• Psychiatric effects: Such as severe anxiety, agitation, or hallucinations.
• Fast or pounding heartbeat: Known as tachycardia.
• Signs of liver problems: Such as persistent nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking Cesamet, seek medical attention immediately. It’s also important to note that Cesamet can interact with other medications, so always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions and complications.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Cesamet:

• Storage: Store Cesamet capsules at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused Cesamet capsules properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider about the proper disposal method in your area.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as severe dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention or call your local emergency services.
• Overdose: There is limited information on specific antidotes for Cesamet overdose. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic. It’s important to avoid taking more than the prescribed dose of Cesamet to prevent overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Cesamet and to check for any potential side effects or complications.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Cesamet, as it can increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness, and other side effects.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Cesamet, as it may interact with certain medications.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Cesamet may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how Cesamet affects you.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Cesamet should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its safety in these conditions has not been well-established. Consult your healthcare provider before using Cesamet if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorders, liver impairment, or any other medical conditions before starting Cesamet.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Cesamet, including dosage adjustments, precautions, and any specific advice tailored to your individual health needs.