We always want to make sure we put safety first when using CBD.
Mixing CBD gummies with the medications you’re already taking definitely requires getting your doctor’s go-ahead.
Sometimes the combination isn’t good for you.
That’s why today we’re going to be talking about how CBD interacts with certain medications, focusing on heart meds, and provide guidance on which drugs should not be taken with CBD.
Does CBD Interact with Heart Meds?
CBD has been reported to have potential benefits for cardiovascular health, such as reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and improving blood vessel function.
However, it can also interact with certain heart medications, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced effectiveness of the medication.
Bloodthinners and CBD
One class of heart medications that may interact with CBD is blood thinners, such as warfarin.
CBD can inhibit the enzyme CYP2C9, which is responsible for metabolizing warfarin in the liver.
This interaction can lead to increased levels of warfarin in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising.
Calcium Channel Blockers and CBD
Another class of heart medications that may interact with CBD is calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine and verapamil.
These drugs work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload of the heart.
CBD has been shown to inhibit the enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, which are involved in the metabolism of calcium channel blockers.
This interaction can lead to increased levels of the medication in the bloodstream, potentially causing side effects such as dizziness, low blood pressure, or an irregular heartbeat.
It is essential to consult your healthcare provider if you are taking heart medications and considering using CBD.
They can help determine if CBD is appropriate for your situation and advise on any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen.
What Others Drugs Should Not Be Taken with CBD?
While CBD gummies are generally considered safe because they’re nonaddictive and you can’t overdose, there are other aspects too consider.
In addition to heart medications, several other drugs CAN potentially interact with CBD.
Some of these include:
Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications
By enhancing GABA activity, CBD may help regulate mood and stress levels, offering potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as anxiety and depression.
But you also need to be careful if you’re taking anti-anxiety meds.
CBD has been shown to inhibit the enzyme CYP2D6, which is responsible for metabolizing many antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and benzodiazepines.
This interaction can lead to increased levels of these medications in the bloodstream, potentially causing side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
Antipsychotic medications
CBD may interact with antipsychotic medications, such as haloperidol and clozapine, by inhibiting the enzyme CYP2D6.
This interaction can lead to increased levels of these medications in the bloodstream, potentially causing side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
Antiepileptic medications
CBD has been shown to interact with some antiepileptic medications, such as clobazam and valproate.
This interaction can lead to changes in the levels of these medications in the bloodstream, potentially affecting their efficacy and increasing the risk of side effects.
Gastrointestinal medications
CBD may interact with gastrointestinal medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 antagonists, by inhibiting the enzyme CYP2C19. This interaction can lead to increased levels of these medications in the bloodstream, potentially causing side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
HIV antivirals
CBD may interact with certain HIV antiviral medications, such as ritonavir and saquinavir, by inhibiting the enzyme CYP3A4.
This interaction can lead to increased levels of these medications in the bloodstream, potentially causing side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
Chemotherapy drugs
CBD may interact with some chemotherapy drugs, such as cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin, by inhibiting the enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2B6.
This interaction can lead to increased levels of these medications in the bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other medications may also interact with CBD.
If you are taking any prescription medications, please do yourself a favor and consult your healthcare provider before using CBD to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your situation.
Tips for Safely Using CBD with Medications
If you are considering using CBD gummies and other products alongside prescription medications, here are some tips to help ensure your safety:
Talk to your healthcare provider
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting CBD, especially if you are taking prescription medications.
They can help determine if CBD is appropriate for your situation and advise on any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen.
Start with a low dose
When starting with CBD, begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the dose that provides the desired effects.
This will help minimize the risk of potential interactions and side effects.
Monitor for side effects
Be vigilant in monitoring for any side effects or changes in the effectiveness of your medications.
If you notice any concerning symptoms, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Choose a reputable CBD product
Ensure that you are using a high-quality CBD product from a reputable source.
Look for products that have been third-party tested for potency and purity to ensure you are getting a safe and effective product.
Potential Benefits, Potential Interaction
CBD has many potential benefits, it is essential to be aware of potential interactions with prescription medications.
Always consult your healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if you are taking heart meds or other medications that may interact with CBD.
By being proactive and informed, you can safely and effectively incorporate CBD into your wellness routine.
