Cannabidiol, often shortened to simply CBD, is a chemical compound from the cannabis plant touted for its many health benefits such as a treatment for epilepsy, inflammation, stress, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, arthritis, and more. CBD has now made it mainstream and anyone can pick up a CBD coffee or CBD-enhanced smoothie on the way to work. It’s also easier than ever to buy CBD online so you can medicate at home. Like any new health regimen, it’s important to take the correct dosage and understand any potential side effects or health risks such as other medication that shouldn’t be taken in combination with CBD. This article provides information regarding the most common questions about CBD side effects, but please consult a medical professional before using CBD to treat any serious health conditions.
What are side effects of CBD oil?
In most cases, CBD is very safe and just like marijuana, no one has died from an overdose of this natural drug. In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) did an extensive study which compiled scientific research on everything from the chemical make-up of CBD, administration and dosage, toxicology, adverse effects to humans, and abuse potential, to therapeutic applications, industrial use of CBD, and much more. The study identified that “In general, CBD has been found to have relatively low toxicity, although not all potential effects have been explored.” The WHO did not believe that CBD has any major side effects or any risk of abuse and dependence.
Negative Side Effects of CBD
The overall consensus among the WHO and most medical professionals is that CBD is not a dangerous drug even at very high doses. That doesn’t mean that there are no CBD oil side effects at all. If you have any allergies, be sure to check the carrier oil and ingredients on the CBD oil bottle before purchasing to avoid any allergic reactions. Coconut oil, hemp seed oil, avocado oil, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, and olive oil are some of the most common types of CBD carrier oils used commercially. If you are allergic to any of these common carrier oils, you can also make CBD oil at home. The following is a list of potential CBD oil side effects that have been reported by users:
- Tiredness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Diarrhea
- Lightheadedness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Low blood pressure
CBD side effects liver
One important consideration is the effects of CBD on the liver. It is recommended that people with liver disease be cautious, take only low doses of CBD, and discuss with a doctor prior to use. This is because some epilepsy patients who were treated with Epidiolex, a legal prescription CBD drug, were found to have high levels of liver enzymes in their blood samples, which suggests liver inflammation or damage. Those with preexisting liver disease prior to CBD treatment may have a higher risk of liver damage, especially at high doses such as those found in prescription Epidiolex.
CBD during pregnancy
CBD and marijuana use is growing in popularity with pregnant women as a means to treat nausea and other symptoms of morning sickness, however there may be side effects to the unborn baby. Though not specifically about CBD, the American Academy of Pediatrics did a study in 2018 on marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which concluded that women should not consume marijuana due to possible risks to child development. It is known that THC does pass into breast milk and cannabinoids such as THC and CBD pass through the placental barrier of pregnant women. While there is no definitive answer or specific studies on the topic, it is best to refrain from CBD and marijuana use while pregnant or breastfeeding.
What drugs should not be taken with CBD?
While it is safe to take most common medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen in combination with CBD oil, consult your healthcare professional if you are on medication and are thinking about starting CBD treatment. There are some types of medications that were found to be incompatible with CBD by making those medications less effective or that cause mild interactions, however there are a few drugs that can cause potentially serious problems when taken with CBD. These are listed below, but please do not assume this is a complete list:
- Some blood thinners
- Heart rhythm medications
- Some thyroid medications
- Drugs for seizures and epilepsy
- Opioid painkillers
- Some types of immune-suppressives
Conclusion
Overall, reported CBD side effects are very minor and consuming CBD, even in high doses, has been deemed safe. While there are a few instances where CBD may not be recommended such as for people with liver disease and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, most adults will have no problem treating health issues naturally with CBD. If you have any doubts or questions about CBD oil side effects or want to learn more before starting at home CBD treatment, speak with your doctor.
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