CBD (Cannabidiol) Oil has gained attention in recent years due to its numerous wellness benefits, but the important question arises for those with prescribed medications: Can you safely take it with antibiotics? Can both of them be consumed together?
Considering the interaction of prescribed drugs with CBD is essential, as mixing two different substances can lead to serious consequences. While CBD is generally well-tolerated, its interaction with prescription drugs, including antibiotics, requires caution. In this article, we will learn about the potential antibiotics and CBD oil, the effects of CBD oil on the body, and the side effects to watch for.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a natural extract derived from the hemp plant. It contains Cannabidiol (CBD), which is a non-psychoactive compound. This oil is widely used for its potential health benefits, such as providing relief and comfort, reducing stress, improving sleep, and promoting overall wellness. Unlike THC, it does not cause intoxication or a high, making it a popular choice among natural relief seekers.
Understanding the Potential Interaction
The main question is how the body processes the interaction of any substance with prescription medication. Both antibiotics and CBD oil are metabolised (broken down) by the same family of enzymes in the liver, known as the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) system.
You can imagine these enzymes as a limited source to process substances, so when you consume CBD, it can temporarily inhibit the activity of these enzymes, which means if you take an antibiotic at the same time, these may not effectively work as your body might not be able to metabolise the antibiotics efficiently. This potential interaction can lead to two main outcomes:
- Increased Antibiotic Levels
The antibiotic may remain in your body at a higher concentration for a longer period, which can increase the antibiotic’s effect and, more importantly, its side effects, potentially leading to toxicity.
- Reduced Antibiotic Effectiveness
In some cases, the interaction changes how antibiotics work and reduces their effectiveness. It’s essential to learn that not all antibiotics are metabolised by the same specific enzyme; the severity of the interaction depends on the specific antibiotic prescribed.
Effects of CBD Oil and How They Play a Role
To understand the interaction of CBD with antibiotics, it’s essential to know the general effects of CBD oil. Unlike THC, CBD is non-impairing and does not cause intoxication (high). CBD promotes relaxation and a calm state of mind. It supports managing everyday stress and helps you maintain a balanced profile.
When CBD combines with antibiotics, the concern is not only about the effects but also how it influences drug metabolism, as mentioned earlier.
Side Effects of CBD Oil and Antibiotics: A Combined Risk
Both antibiotics and CBD have side effects; however, when they are combined, the risk of experiencing side effects may increase.
Common Side Effects of CBD Oil:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Changes in appetite
- Diarrhea
Common Side Effects of Antibiotics:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset or pain
- Dizziness
CBD slows the metabolism of the antibiotic, subsequently increasing the concentration of the antibiotic in your blood, which causes side effects like nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea.
What Should You Do? Practical Advice
The safest option is to proceed with caution and look out for potential interactions. Consult with your doctor first before combining CBD oil with any antibiotic. Your health care provider checks the specific antibiotic metabolism pathways and your health profile before providing personalized advice.
They might suggest consuming CBD and antibiotics several hours apart to minimise the competition between liver enzymes. Must monitor side effects, and if you feel dizziness or headache, stop using CBD oil until you have finished the entire course of antibiotics.
You may have heard the advice to avoid grapefruit with certain medications. This is because grapefruit inhibits the same CYP450 enzyme as CBD. If your antibiotic has a grapefruit warning, it is a strong indicator that CBD could also cause an interaction. Start with the low dose and see how your body reacts.
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