With all the different types of medication availiable, prescription or over the counter, many every day medications can interact with Cannabis. There are 82 identified drug interactions from caffeine to grapefruits. When it comes to Cannabis, most potential interactions that have been identified are relatively mild. In fact, some drugs seem to work together with Cannabis in a positive way.
Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, is an excellent anxiety fighting compound. It occurs in trace amounts in most varieties of cannabis, but recent years have seen an increase of high CBD strains and products. CBD isn’t psychoactive like THC – when isolated from its THC counterpart, it does not produce the obvious euphoria or the mind-altering ‘high’. It occurs in trace amounts in most varieties of cannabis, but recent years there has been an increase by many companies that product high CBD strains.
Though CBD does not produce the “HIGH” that THC does, it does appear to produce significant changes within the brain and body, which is what has prompted the research into its medicinal benefits.
How does it work?
CBD works by attaching to specific receptors. We know tthe human body produces certain cannabinoids itself called endocannabinoids. The body has two primary receptors for cannabinoids, which are the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
CB1 receptors are responsible for movement, coordination, pain, mood, emotions, appetite, memories, among other things. These receptors are mainly found in the brain and THC attaches to them.
CB2 is the other type of receptor in the body, and this aids with the immune system, affecting inflammation and pain. Previously, it was believed that CBD attached to these receptors in the body. Now it is understood that instead CBD encourages the body to use more of its own cannabinoids.
When is it Contraindicated?
CBD interacts with the body by being broken down by a chemical agent known as enzymes, meaning that CBD should not be taken with certain other medications, or should be taken at a different time of day. Since some medications are also broken down by the same enzymes as CBD, combining them can make them work against each other. This can result is a reduced effect of the medication you are taking or cause complications. Some of these medications should be completely avoided.
What Medications are contraindicated to be used in conjunction with CBD and why?
CBD can block the absorption of Blood thinners such as Warfarin, causing them to remain in higher concentrations in the blood. Higher concentration can lead to toxicity or cause other complications. Taking medications along with Cannabis could slow blood clotting and might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding. These patients should pay close attention to blood levels and adjust dosage as needed, as instructed by their doctor.
- Aspirin Advil
- Plavix Motrin
- Diclofenac Naproxen
- Voltaren Heparin
- Ibuprofen Coumadin
Sedative Medications
Barbiturates interaction rating is “Moderate”, cannabis might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Some Sedative Medications include;
- Clonazepam
- Ativan (Lorazepam)
- Zolpidem
- Ambien and others
Antidepressants Medications
Some of the antidepressant’s medications can cause an increase in nervousness, irritation and being more jittery, and nervous.
- Prozac – Moderate side effects
- Cymbalta – reduce effectiveness – since cannabis speeds up the absorption of some antidepressants.B
Benzodiazepines
The absorption of these medications could be affected in a similar way and could increase the side effects. This could mean, if you are taking these medications you may feel more sedated, drowsy and in some cases could become toxic and effect your breathing.
- Xanax
- Ativan
- Clonazepam
- Diazepam
Glycemic Control Medications
There is evidence to suggest cannabis may decrease insulin resistance, improve absorption and improve blood sugar control. These studies are based on Epidemiology studies, including the causes and effects of various health conditions. Although we don’t have conclusive evidence, its possible cannabis may work together with other drugs favourably, but also there could be a risk that cannabis combined with other drugs could lower glucose level too much. It is important that these people continue to monitor their blood sugar levels and continue to be supervised by their physician.
Conclusion
Most patient’s cannabis is relatively safe, well tolerated and carries fewer risks of adverse drug reactions than many other prescribed drugs. Cannabis is not a single drug, its complex plant comprised of numerous compounds from cannabinoids to Terpenes. Influenced by these cannabinoids’ potential interactions, both good and bad can vary from one stain of cannabis to another. Given its therapeutic versatility, one of the most compelling arguments for cannabis is that it can reduce the need to combine multiple medications that have a high-risk potential of producing adverse reactions. If you feel you may be experiencing a drug interaction, we highly recommend you speak with your Physician or your Cannabinoid Therapy Educator prior to dosing with cannabis and/or starting a new medications.