The Interaction of Prescription Drugs with CBD
In general, CBD is considered safe, but it is a biologically active compound, so it may cause side effects or interact negatively with supplements, over-the-counter medication, and prescription drugs in your system. Several factors determine CBD's interaction with medication - your health condition, the type and dose of CBD, the drug concentration, and the type of medication.
What Can Happen if you Take CBD with Prescription Medication?
The mild side effects of CBD can be amplified when taken with prescription medication that has similar side effects. Prescription drugs are metabolized by enzymes in the liver (particularly CYP3A4). CBD may inhibit the enzymes from breaking down the drugs, which could alter the concentration of medication. Not enough or too much of the drug could reach your system, with negative consequences.
Which Prescription Drugs Interact Negatively with CBD?
Studies are still ongoing, but a variety of prescription drugs may interact with CBD. Some medications can be affected by the THC in cannabis products rather than CBD. Drug and CBD interaction can have potentially serious implications. These are some of the prescription drugs that may interact negatively with CBD, but there are many more:
- Blood thinners, particularly Warfarin.
- Antinausea medication such as Marinol, Syndros, and Cesamet.
- Muscle spasm medication, such as those prescribed for MS.
- Thyroid medication, such as Levothyroxine.
- Antiarrhythmic medication, such as Amiodarone.
- Antiseizure medication, such as Clobazam, Valproate, and Lamotrigine.
- Steroids and corticosteroids.
- Certain antibiotics.
- Certain antidepressants and antipsychotics.
The Grapefruit Warning
CBD should not be taken with prescription drugs displaying a "grapefruit warning" on the label. Like CBD, grapefruit has an inhibiting effect on CYP3A4 that results in the slower metabolization of some prescription medications.
CBD has the potential to interact with prescription drugs, so it is vital to talk to your healthcare provider before going off your meds or trying CBD for the first time.