Marinol

Marinol is a medicine used to treat loss of appetite associated with weight loss in people with AIDS. Marinol is also used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with cancer medicines in people who did not respond to other medicines.

Marinol is a federally controlled substance because it has abuse potential.

How does this medication work?

Marinol works in the area of your brain that controls nausea, vomiting, and appetite.

What are the beneficial effects of this medication and when should I begin to have results?

What: Marinol has been shown to improve appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

When: Everyone responds differently to treatment, so try to be patient and follow your healthcare provider's directions. It is important that you take Marinol exactly as your healthcare provider has prescribed.

How do I know it is working?

You may feel an improvement in your symptoms once you start taking Marinol. Your healthcare provider may also ask you questions from time to time to assess how well your symptoms are controlled.

The following is not a full list of side effects. Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Only your healthcare provider can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this medication.

More common side effects may include: a feeling of happiness and well-being, heightened awareness.

Less common side effects may include:

Changes in your mood, especially at the beginning of treatment or after dosage adjustments.

Do not take Marinol if you are allergic to it, any of its ingredients, or to sesame oil.

Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Marinol. Also, talk to your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart problems, have or have had drug or alcohol abuse, mental health problems (such as mania or depression), seizures, or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your healthcare provider uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your healthcare provider may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your healthcare provider's approval.

Loss of Appetite

Adults: The usual starting dose is 2.5 milligrams (mg) twice a day, before lunch and supper. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe 2.5 mg once a day, in the evening or at bedtime.

Nausea and Vomiting

Adults: Your healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate dose for you, based on your height and weight.

Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose as needed, until the desired effect is achieved.

If you are elderly, your healthcare provider may adjust your dose appropriately.

Take Marinol exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change your dose without first talking to your healthcare provider.

Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or engage in other dangerous activities until you know how Marinol affects you.

Do not drink alcohol, smoke marijuana, or take medicines that make you sleepy while taking Marinol.

If Marinol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Marinol may interact with numerous medications. Therefore, it is very important that you tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.

The effects of Marinol during pregnancy are unknown. Marinol can be found in your breast milk if you take it while breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Marinol. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Marinol should be taken under special circumstances determined by your healthcare provider. If you miss your scheduled dose, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

Store in the refrigerator or in a cool environment. Protect from freezing.

In the event of a medical emergency call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately. In the event of overdose, call your doctor or poison control for further instructions.
National Poison Control#: Call 1-800-222-1222

This PDR+ drug information has been developed by the Physicians’ Desk Reference Network (PDRN), a source of medication information trusted by doctors for over 65 years.

This monograph summarizes the most important information about your medication and does not cover all the information you may need. If you have any questions or concerns or want to learn more about your medication, ask your healthcare provider; he/she will be able to provide answers to your questions. This medication should only be used by the patient for whom it was prescribed and should not be shared with other people.

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