CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits. It is available in a variety of forms, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and topical products. While CBD is generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated, it is important to consider the potential interactions it may have with other medications.
One of the main concerns with CBD is its potential to interact with medications metabolized by the liver. The liver is responsible for breaking down and eliminating drugs from the body, and certain enzymes in the liver are responsible for metabolizing CBD. If CBD is taken with a medication that is also metabolized by these enzymes, it could potentially interfere with the metabolism of the medication and alter its effectiveness.
One example of a medication that may interact with CBD is warfarin, a blood thinner. In a case report, a patient taking warfarin experienced an increased INR (a measure of blood clotting) after starting CBD. Another case report described a patient taking clobazam, a medication used to treat epilepsy and anxiety, who experienced an increase in sedation and decrease in seizure control after starting CBD.
It is important to note that these case reports are limited and do not provide definitive evidence of an interaction between CBD and these medications. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential interactions between CBD and other medications.
It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including CBD. They can provide guidance on whether CBD is appropriate for you and if there are any potential interactions with your current medications.
References:
Grotenhermen, F. (2018). The therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabinoids. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International, 115(3), 349-355.
Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364.
Fischedick, J. T., Overholser, B. R., & Fischedick, A. R. (2019). Drug-drug interactions with cannabis and cannabinoid-based therapies. Expert Opinion on Drug Metabolism & Toxicology, 15(3), 209-223.