Health information to help you understand symptoms. It isn't a diagnosis.
Check symptoms

Dronabinol

Brand names: Marinol, Syndros

Dronabinol is a prescription form of THC. It treats nausea from chemotherapy and appetite loss in AIDS.

Brand namesMarinol, Syndros
Type of medicineCannabinoid
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's a controlled substance.

What it's used for

  • Nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy
  • Weight loss and poor appetite in AIDS

How to take it

  • Take it as prescribed, often before meals.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling 'high'
  • Fast heartbeat
Call your provider todaySeeing things, paranoia, or confusion
Call your provider todayFainting when standing

Warnings

  • Don't drive after taking it.
  • Use caution with a history of mental illness or substance use.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Alcohol and sedating medicines add to drowsiness.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.