Common consultations

Appetite stimulation (palliative care, oncology, AIDS)

Significant appetite loss in cancer or AIDS palliative care.

Overview

Severe appetite loss and unintentional weight loss (cachexia) are common in advanced cancer and AIDS. Portuguese law recognizes medicinal cannabis as an option to stimulate appetite in patients receiving palliative care related to oncological treatments or HIV/AIDS.

Common symptoms

  • Significant unintentional weight loss
  • Persistent loss of appetite
  • Muscle wasting

When to seek care urgently

  • Standard appetite stimulants are not effective
  • Weight loss is affecting your treatment or quality of life

How we can help

The doctor will assess your underlying condition and current treatments, and may prescribe medicinal cannabis if clinically appropriate.

The information above is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. If you have an emergency, call 112.

Other common consultations