Delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol delays the gastric emptying of solid food in humans: a double‐blind, randomized study

Background: Delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active constituent of marijuana, is an effective agent in the prevention of chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting. Aim: To determine the effect of THC on gastric emptying of a radiolabelled solid food in humans. Methods: Thirteen healthy volunteers underwent gastric emptying studies after receiving THC and placebo in a randomized double‐blind fashion on 2 separate days. THC, at a dose of 10 mg/m2 of body surface area, or placebo were administered. Results: Gastric emptying after THC was slower than placebo in all subjects. Mean percentage of isotope remaining in the stomach was significantly greater than after placebo from 30 min (85.5 ± 4.3% vs. 94.2 ± 1.4% placebo and THC, respectively, P