By Dr. Morgan Camp, MD
Though CBD is likely very safe and used by millions of consumers daily, it is important to note that CBD has the potential to interact with certain medications, so consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD if you are taking other medications.
In my practice I have not seen any major reactions to CBD other than sedation and for some people a paradoxical increase in energy.
CBD can interact with medications in a few different ways:
Enzyme inhibition: CBD can inhibit the activity of certain enzymes in the liver that are responsible for metabolizing many medications. This can result in higher levels of the medication in the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of side effects.
Enzyme induction: CBD can also induce the activity of certain enzymes in the liver, which can cause the body to metabolize medications more quickly. This can result in lower levels of the medication in the bloodstream, which can reduce its effectiveness.
Some of the medications that have been found to interact with CBD include:
Blood Thinners | CBD has the potential to increase the effects of blood thinners like warfarin, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
Antidepressants | CBD can interact with certain antidepressants, including SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants, potentially increasing their effects and causing side effects like dizziness and confusion.
Benzodiazepines | CBD can interact with benzodiazepines, which are commonly used to treat anxiety, potentially increasing their sedative effects.
Antipsychotics | CBD can interact with antipsychotic medications, potentially increasing their effects and causing side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth.
Conclusion
It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other medications that can interact with CBD. If you are considering using CBD and are taking other medications, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional first to determine if CBD is a safe option for you. Your healthcare provider can help you monitor for potential interactions and adjust your medication regimen as needed.
