Medical Cannabis for HIV Wasting & Anorexia — Switzerland 2026
Dronabinol was one of the first cannabinoids approved — since 1992 in the US for AIDS anorexia. Much cheaper for members.
Dronabinol approved in the US since 1992 for AIDS-related anorexia (Beal 1995: +38 % appetite vs placebo). In Switzerland off-label for HIV wasting, cancer cachexia, chronic anorexia. Starting dose 2.5 mg before lunch and dinner. CannabisClub members: 50 CHF flat instead of 190.
What the studies show
Beal 1995 (RCT, n=139): Dronabinol 2.5 mg twice daily — appetite +38 %, weight stabilisation vs placebo.
In cancer cachexia: cannabis extract (Cannabis-in-Cachexia 2006) not significant — dronabinol works better in HIV than tumour.
Preparations & dosing
Dronabinol 2.5 mg 1 h before lunch and dinner, slowly increase to 2× 10 mg.
Alternative: THC-rich flower (Bedrocan) vaporised — faster effect, harder titration.
Save as a CannabisClub member
HIV centres and oncology rarely prescribe cannabis. External consult 190 CHF, member 50 CHF flat. Registration free.
FAQ
Does cannabis work in cancer cachexia?
Less clear than in HIV. Individual trial with dronabinol 2.5–10 mg/day worthwhile, especially if nausea is involved.
What does membership save?
50 CHF instead of 190 CHF per consultation. Registration free.
Does insurance cover dronabinol in HIV?
With art. 71a HIO coverage possible, if standard therapy ineffective.
Cannabis for HIV Wasting & Anorexia — Prescription Switzerland 2026 (Members 50 CHF)