Thalidomide for Anorexia
Thalidomide was used in the 1960s as an anxiolytic and antiemetic agent for pregnant women and was withdrawn from use because of its teratogenic effects. Because of its antiangiogenic properties, it has resurfaced as an antineoplastic drug and currently is indicated for the treatment of multiple myeloma.Thalidomide reduces the production of tumor necrosis factor alpha.
Progestins for Anorexia
Progestins are synthetic hormones that stimulate progesterone. Progestin is a type of steroid structure and is the main component of contraceptive medications. Progestins have been evaluated alone and in combination with other medications for their effect in patients with cancer for anorexia, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, hot flashes, and fatigue.
Oral Nutritional Interventions for Anorexia
Oral nutritional interventions involve the provision of dietary advice or education with or without dietary modification or nutritional supplements. Nutritional supplements included in this type of intervention are those involving general protein-calorie supplements and multiple combinations of vitamins, minerals, and other compounds. Specific herbal supplements and some highly specific supplements such as carnitine and individual vitamins are considered as separate interventions.
Mirtazapine for Anorexia
Mirtazapine is in a class of medications called antidepressants. It also has been used as an antianxiety medication, antiemetic, and appetite stiumulant. It works by enhancing adrenergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter activity in the brain. Mirtazapine is also an antagonist of 5-HT3 and histamine receptors. Mirtazapine is available as a tablet and an oral disintegrating tablet.
Cannabis/Cannabinoids for Anorexia
Cannabinoids are compounds present in the Cannabis plant that bind to cannabinoid receptors and exert pharmacologic effects that stimulate appetite, act as antiemetics, and have analgesic effects. Cannabinoids approved for use in the United States include dronabinol and nabilone. Cannabis compounds studied for symptom management in patients with cancer have been in oral forms, oral spray, or ingested through smoking. It should be noted that not all Cannabis formulations or methods of ingestion necessarily provide the same effects and results.