Cannabidiol is an effective drug for the treatment of several health conditions. However, research on the substance is still limited. This is why experts are concerned about how safe it actually is despite available studies confirming that it is relatively less risky. The maximum adverse side effects that you can expect from the use of this cannabinoid include dry mouth, nausea, and diarrhea.
This doesn’t mean that you can take CBD oil with another med carefreely though. You see, professionals agree that CBD can interact with other medications which is supremely risky. Basically, cannabidiol interacts with how other drugs do their job by blocking a group of liver enzymes known as cytochrome P450. By doing so it can increase or decrease the effects of that drug.
This is not the case only with CBD but all chemical compounds – they tend to interact with one another and influence the effect they have on your health. So, how does CBD in particular impact your health by interfering with other medications?
CBD and Blood Thinners
Cannabidiol can interact with how coumadin and warfarin do their job in your body. It increases their effectiveness and ups the risk of bleeding and even hemorrhage. This is a pretty risky scenario. CBD can also interact even drugs that come with a risk of blood thinning such as ibuprofen.
CBD and Sedatives
The herbal component also interacts with sedatives. It makes them way more effective which means by taking CBD with a sedative, you’re likely to feel more awake even though calm. On the flip side, THC has a different effect of interacting with sedatives; it makes you sleepier and drowsier.
CBD and Benzos
Benzos, or benzodiazepines, are drugs that are used for the treatment of anxiety. Cannabidiol can interfere with them as well. Resultantly, you’re likely to feel more sedated. In some cases, taking cannabidiol and benzos together can also be dangerous. It can affect your respiratory system.
CBD and Anti-Seizure Meds
You must be aware that CBD-based drugs can legally be used for the treatment of epileptic seizures. The combination of CBD and anti-seizure meds can do the opposite job of what both the drugs separately can – it causes way worse seizures. Thus, it is crucial to consult a professional in this regard.
Factors That Affect How CBD Interacts With Medications
How CBD interacts with medications and affects you depends on a number of factors. First off, the concentration of both the drugs counts. Some research shows that low concentrations of CBD do not have a strong enough affect on your body’s processes. However, there’s no research on how much of a dosage is safe.
If or not CBD interferes with the meds you take also depends on the form in which you take CBD. The more bioavailable the delivery mode, the higher the risk of interaction. The time difference between when you take both the drugs matters as well. Furthermore, genetics, weight, and age have an influence.
Due to how CBD can interact with other meds, you should always consult your doctor regarding this. If you are taking any other meds, be honest to get the right guidance.
