Nabilone

Mechanism :

Its antiemetic activity may be due to effect on cannabinoid receptors (CB1) within the central nervous system.

Indication :

Treatment of refractory nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy

Contraindications :

Hypersensitivity to nabilone, other cannabinoids, or any component of the formulation.

Dosing :

Oral:

<18 kg

0.5 mg every 12 hours.

18 to 30 kg

1 mg every 12 hours.

>30 kg

1 mg every 8 to 12 hours.

Maximum dose: 0.06 mg/kg/day.

Adverse Effect :

Drowsiness, dizziness, vertigo, euphoria, ataxia, depression, lack of concentration, sleep disturbance, xerostomia, visual disturbance, hypotension, dysphoria, headache, sedation, anorexia, nausea, weakness.

Interaction :

Anticholinergic Agents: May enhance the tachycardic effect of Cannabinoid-Containing Products.
Blood Pressure Lowering Agents: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Hypotension-Associated Agents.
CNS Depressants: Nabilone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants.
Sympathomimetics: Cannabinoid-Containing Products may enhance the tachycardic effect of Sympathomimetics.

Hepatic Dose :

No dose adjustments are recommended. It is extensively metabolized by the liver, hence use caution when initiating or adjusting nabilone dosage.