Can I consume CBD while taking Amoxicillin and steroids?

CBD has grown in popularity recently as it is seen by many experts as a remedy for pain and inflammation. It is not a surprise that anyone with pain or chronic inflammation will want to try out CBD. However, this is a path you should tread with caution especially if you are currently on a prescription medication.

Antibiotics are drugs prescribed for combatting several bacteria infections while steroids are prescribed mostly for inflammation. Both Antibiotics and steroids are metabolised in the cytochrome P450 enzyme pathway. About 60% of the drugs we use pass through this pathway. Antibiotics, antidepressants, beta-blockers, steroids etc. all pass through this pathway.

CBD is also metabolised in the cytochrome 450 pathway. The CYP3A4 enzyme is one of the enzymes that is involved in the metabolism of CBD. This enzyme is also responsible for the metabolism of steroids. CBD acts as a competitive inhibitor of this enzyme. This means that if you take CBD, it will reduce the action of this enzyme, making it metabolise other drugs like steroids slowly. This will lead to the accumulation of steroids in the system, and this may lead to further complications.

The grapefruit warning symbol present on the label of some drugs is the best guide to drugs that can interact with CBD. If your doctor prescribes a drug for you and tells you to avoid taking it along with grapefruit, you should also avoid CBD since both grapefruit and CBD inhibits the same enzymatic pathway.

This does not directly mean that those taking antibiotics or steroids should not take CBD at all. However, what it means is that it should be done with utmost caution, and with the clinical advice of a doctor. The doctor might find a way to time your dose or reduce it in such a way that it does not interact with CBD. If you want to stop steroids or antibiotics, you should also see a doctor. Stopping medications without expert advice from a doctor may cause further complications. The solution is to consult your doctor before taking any further step.