Nabilone

How does it work?

Nabilone belongs to a group of medicines known as cannabinoids (due to the similarity of their chemical structure with cannabis). Nabilone has been found to be effective in the treatment of sickness (an anti-emetic), although the exact method by which it carries out this function is not fully understood. It is used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by medicines used in the treatment of cancer (chemotherapeutic agents). This medicine is reserved for use in individuals who do not respond to the more commonly used anti-emetics. This is mainly because cannabinoids have potential adverse effects similar to that of cannabis and may cause changes in mood and behaviour.

What is it used for?

Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy medicines used to treat cancer

Warning!

Dependence may occur. This means that the patient finds it very difficult to stop using the medicine.

For use only under specialist medical supervision

The effectiveness of this medicine may decrease if used for long periods of time (tolerance).

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. These effects may persist for a length of time after the medicine has stopped.

This medicine may cause mood and behavioural changes which can persist for two to three days after stopping treatment.

Use with caution in

Elderly people

Heart disease

High blood pressure

History of psychiatric illness

Not to be used in

Allergy to cannabis-like medicines

Children or adolescents under 18 years of age

Nausea and vomiting induced by any cause other than cancer chemotherapy

Severely decreased liver function

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during pregnancy, therefore it is not recommended for use during pregnancy, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. For this reason, the manufacturer states that it should not be used during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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