Often used for:
Preventing or treating nausea and vomiting; stimulating appetite
What is dronabinol?
Dronabinol is a cannabinoid that helps prevent or treat chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting and can improve appetite to prevent weight loss. Long-term use can be habit-forming, so patients may be monitored for changes in heart rate, blood pressure, mood, or behavior.
Dronabinol at home
- Do not take more often or in higher amounts than prescribed.
- This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or hazardous activities until you know how it affects you.
- Capsules: swallow whole and store in a cool place or refrigerator (do not freeze).
- Oral liquid: measure with the supplied device, take with a full glass of water, store unopened bottles in the refrigerator, and after opening keep at room temperature or refrigerated; discard unused medicine after 6 weeks.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible unless it is near the next dose; do not double doses.
- Do not share this medicine and do not use past the expiration date.
Possible side effects
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness
- Mood changes
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue or weakness
- Headache
- Problems with thinking, focus, or memory
- Confusion, strange thoughts, or hallucinations
- Anxiety
- Nausea and vomiting
- Not all patients will experience these side effects. Report any symptoms to the care team.
Tips for families
- Discuss all questions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- For chemotherapy-related nausea, doses are often given 1–3 hours before treatment and then every 2–4 hours afterward (up to 4–6 doses per day).
- For appetite stimulation, doses are usually given 1 hour before lunch and dinner; patients may track weight and food intake with help from a dietitian.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
- Inform the care team if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.
