Marinol Is a Prescription Synthetic THC — Here's Everything You Need to Know

Marinol is a prescription medication that contains Dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol). It's FDA-approved to treat appetite loss in people with AIDS and nausea caused by chemotherapy. Unlike medical marijuana, Marinol is a standardized, FDA-regulated capsule with a precise dose of synthetic THC.

If you've been prescribed Marinol or are wondering whether it might help you, this guide covers what it is, how it's used, what it costs, and what to watch out for in 2026.

What Is Marinol?

Marinol is the brand name for Dronabinol. It was first approved by the FDA in 1985, making it one of the earliest cannabinoid-based medications available in the United States.

Dronabinol works by activating cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the brain. This produces two main effects: it reduces nausea by acting on the vomiting center in the brainstem, and it stimulates appetite through the hypothalamus. For a detailed explanation, see our guide on how Marinol works.

Marinol is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. This means it has recognized medical uses but also carries some risk of dependence.

What Is Marinol Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

Marinol has two FDA-approved indications:

1. Appetite loss and weight loss in patients with AIDS. Dronabinol helps stimulate appetite in people living with AIDS who are experiencing significant weight loss (AIDS-related anorexia/cachexia).
2. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Marinol is prescribed for patients who haven't responded well to standard antiemetic medications like Ondansetron (Zofran).

Off-Label Uses

Some doctors prescribe Marinol off-label for:

• Chronic pain management
• Neuropathic pain
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Agitation in patients with dementia
• Migraine

Off-label use means the FDA hasn't specifically approved the drug for that condition, but a doctor may determine it's appropriate based on available evidence.

How Is Marinol Taken?

Marinol comes in two forms:

• Marinol capsules: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg
• Syndros oral solution: 5 mg/mL (a liquid form of Dronabinol)

Dosing for Appetite Stimulation (AIDS)

The usual starting dose is 2.5 mg taken by mouth twice daily — once before lunch and once before dinner. Your doctor may increase the dose based on your response, up to a maximum of 20 mg per day.

Dosing for Chemotherapy Nausea

The typical dose is 5 mg/m² (based on body surface area), taken 1 to 3 hours before chemotherapy. Additional doses are given every 2 to 4 hours after chemo, for a total of 4 to 6 doses per day.

Important Tips

• Take Marinol with food if you experience stomach upset.
• Swallow capsules whole — do not crush or chew them.
• Store capsules in a cool place. Refrigeration is recommended.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose. Never double up.

Who Should Not Take Marinol?

Marinol is not right for everyone. You should not take Marinol if you:

• Are allergic to Dronabinol, cannabinoids, or sesame oil (Marinol capsules contain sesame oil)
• Are taking disulfiram or metronidazole (if using Syndros, which contains alcohol)
• Have a history of severe psychiatric illness, unless your doctor determines the benefits outweigh the risks

Use with caution if you:

• Have heart disease or blood pressure issues
• Have a history of substance use disorder
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are elderly (increased sensitivity to psychoactive effects)

For a complete list of medications to watch out for, read our Marinol drug interactions guide. For side effect details, see Marinol side effects.

How Much Does Marinol Cost?

Cost is one of the biggest concerns for Marinol patients. Here's what you can expect in 2026:

• Brand-name Marinol: $300 to $800 for 30 capsules, depending on the dose strength
• Generic Dronabinol: Around $380 retail, but $58 to $150 with discount coupons
• With insurance: Often covered, but may require prior authorization or step therapy (trying other medications first)

There's no current manufacturer savings program for Marinol, but third-party services like Prescription Hope offer it for around $70 per month. You can also find coupons through GoodRx, SingleCare, and other platforms.

For the full breakdown of how to lower your costs, see our complete savings guide.

Alternatives to Marinol

If you can't take Marinol or can't find it, there are alternatives your doctor may consider:

• Nabilone (Cesamet) — another synthetic cannabinoid for chemo-induced nausea
• Ondansetron (Zofran) — a widely used antiemetic that is not a controlled substance
• Megestrol Acetate (Megace) — an appetite stimulant for AIDS-related weight loss
• Medical Cannabis — available through state programs with varying THC/CBD ratios

Learn more in our guide to Marinol alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Marinol is a proven medication that has helped patients manage appetite loss and chemotherapy-induced nausea for decades. If your doctor has prescribed it, understanding the dosage, potential side effects, and cost options will help you get the most from your treatment.

If you're having trouble finding Marinol at a pharmacy, MedFinder can help you locate it near you. And if you need help finding a prescribing doctor, check out our provider guide.