CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound from hemp plants known for its therapeutic benefits. Many people use CBD for relief from issues like pain and anxiety but some wonder about potential side effects. Fortunately, it is generally well-tolerated, with only mild side effects in some cases. In this article, we will explore potential side effects, how CBD interacts with medications, and long-term risks.
What are the Common Side Effects of CBD?
Many times, using CBD products can have several effects. This information will enable you to make better decisions on whether to use CBD products or not.
Dry Mouth and Low Blood Pressure
Dry mouth is probably one of the most commonly reported side effects of CBD. It happens because CBD can affect your salivary production. The other one is low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness. Especially when you are getting up and feel lightheaded.
Drowsiness and Lightheadedness
Do you feel drowsy or lightheaded? Do not worry, as this is something that is very commonly reported when CBD is taken. If you want to relax, this could be beneficial; otherwise, it may interfere with your daily activities.
Drowsiness can make it difficult to keep awake or attentive, and if you stand up too fast, you might even feel lightheaded.
Liver Injury at High Doses
High concentrations of CBD may be associated with liver disorders. Although this can sometimes be linked to drugs like Epidiolex, it's always something to be on the lookout for. If you are on a high dose, your doctor may want to check into your liver function. Watch out for symptoms such as dark urine or yellowing of the skin.
Skin Reactions if Applied Topically
CBD, being applied topically at times, may interact with the skin. Though many take CBD oil for its benefits, there is a bit of caution needed. Here's what you should watch out for:
- Rashes or Irritation: You may get rashes or some form of irritation on the skin.
- Allergic Reactions: In case you experience any strange reaction, discontinue the use of the product and contact a doctor.
Remember that though CBD is regarded as safe in all accounts, it may still cause side effects. Always seek medical advice before you take on a new product.
How Does CBD Interact With Other Medications?
CBD can change how your body metabolizes drugs that exist inside the body. This means that using a CBD product can change how effective other drugs are or how strong their side effects are. So, talk to your doctor before you start using CBD if you take other medicine.
Effect on Liver Enzymes
Your liver is the factory that digests all the medications. CBD will affect just how fast that factory works. If you have CBD, it can slow down or speed up the breakdown of other drugs, which will change how they work in your system. CBD can slow down the breakdown of certain medications, leading to higher levels in your system. This may increase the effects and side effects of those medications. Always consult your doctor before combining CBD with other drugs.
Interaction with Blood Thinners
When you are on blood thinners, be careful! CBD can raise the levels of these drugs in your body, and this may expose you to the risk of bleeding.
- Warfarin: CBD may elevate its levels and may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Monitor your dose if you use both of them.
- Discuss your medication with your doctor if you ever have to lower your dose of either or both of them.
Effects on Anti-Epileptic Drugs
CBD is prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy, but it also interacts with other anti-epileptic drugs. The level of effectiveness can change. Here is a brief summary.
- Clobazam: CBD tends to increase its effects that may raise the risk for adverse effects.
- Eslicarbazepine: CBD may cause a slight rise in its levels within your system.
- Always consult with your doctor if you do change your prescription medication.
Interactions with Antidepressants
If you are on antidepressants, CBD may also alter the way these work. Here is what to be aware of:
- Citalopram: CBD can increase the levels of citalopram, which may cause some increased side effects.
- Fluoxetine: As with citalopram, CBD slows down the breakdown of fluoxetine.
- You should monitor your mood very closely or any adverse effects with this treatment combination.
Always consult your healthcare provider prior to starting CBD, especially if you're on other medications. This can help avoid any unwanted surprises and ensure your treatment is safe and effective.
What Unique Factors Should Be Considered for Vulnerable Groups?
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also exercise caution with CBD. There is scant literature for use in pregnancy and breastfeeding making its use best consultative on a healthcare provider. There is little potential risk of the fetus and infant, but caution must prevail.
How Can CBD Be Used to Treat People with Parkinson's Disease?
CBD may be helpful to people with Parkinson's, but it can also be hazardous. Always consult a doctor before doing so.
- Possible benefits: There are some studies that show that CBD can help with tremors and rigidity in people with Parkinson's.
- Side effects: Understand the meaning of side effects, for instance, sleepiness and mood change.
- No one is the same. You may find something that works for someone, but not all people will have the same reaction due to each person's reaction.
Find a professional health care provider before trying a new treatment if you fall into a vulnerable group.
What are the Possible Long-term Dangers of CBD Product Use?
It should come to your mind that it may relate to some risks of long-term effects when you consider using CBD. Though more and more individuals use cannabidiol to control pain, researchers are conducting studies of its long-term effects. Several reports have shown that CBD may lead to liver injury, especially at higher doses.
Gastrointestinal Problems
There is also a risk of side effects on the gastrointestinal side. Some say they suffer from nausea, diarrhea, especially when they take it in high dosages, anorexia, or polyphagia.
Side Effects on Mood and Alertness
Long-term use of CBD may have some impacts on your mood and alertness as well. Here are some of what to expect:
- Drowsiness: You may feel more tired than usual.
- Anxiety: Even though CBD is widely used for the treatment of anxiety, some people say that they experience an increase in anxiety when it is used repeatedly.
- Cognitive effects: Research is still being conducted to know how CBD affects memory and attention.
Contamination Issues
Lastly, there's the problem of contamination in the products that contain cannabis. Not all CBD products are of the same quality, and some products may be comprised:
- THC: This psychoactive compound causes effects that can lead to unwanted effects.
- Heavy metals: Some have been found to contain harmful substances.
- Pesticides: Pesticide residues are another concern.
Choose quality CBD. Also, see a doctor if you are concerned about long-term usage.
Conclusion
Products containing cannabidiol can be helpful, but they may come with side effects like dry mouth, dizziness, and sleepiness. while kids can use FDA-approved Epidiolex for seizures. Its safety in other forms is still uncertain. People with liver issues or conditions like multiple sclerosis or chronic pain should be cautious. Medical cannabis, including CBD, can interact with medications, so consult a doctor first. Not all CBD products are equal, so choose ones that are tested and safe.