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Aug 22, 2019 · Mayo Clinic Minute: Is CBD safe to use? CBD is being touted to help treat nausea, anxiety, cancer, arthritis and even Alzheimer’s. Does it work? Patients, such as those being treated with...
Dec 6, 2022 · Though it's often well-tolerated, CBD can cause side effects, such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications you're taking, such as blood thinners.
Oct 21, 2021 · CBD is a central nervous system depressant, so it can make you drowsy. However, its long half-life in the body of 50–60 hours makes it undesirable as a sleep aid. Half-life is defined as how long half of the drug is eliminated after one dose.
- Overview
- Common CBD Side Effects
- What Is Cannabidiol (CBD)?
- Are There Any Benefits Associated With Using CBD?
- CBD Is Still an Unregulated Substance
- Important Considerations
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Generally speaking, cannabidiol (CBD) is considered a safe substance when applied topically or taken orally. There are, however, some potential side effects to keep in mind when using this substance, the majority of which are mild.
This article discusses the most common CBD side effects and other factors you should consider before taking CBD products. It also covers some of the potential benefits CBD may offer.
According to federal law, all hemp-derived CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC. You should always check your state's laws before purchasing CBD or CBD-derived products.
Drowsiness
Drowsiness and sedation are among the most common CBD side effects. This is also considered a benefit for some people, but Jas Matharu-Daley, MD, a physician and chief medical officer for a CBD brand, notes that the effects might be too strong if you’re also taking CBD with other sedating medications.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Stomach upset or other gastrointestinal problems are another common side effect of CBD and CBD-derived products. Some people may get diarrhea or liver problems [when using CBD]. This is dependent on the individual and their medical history, so monitoring is important. — JAS MATHARU-DALEY, MD, PHYSICIAN AND CONSULTANT FOR A CBD BRAND The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that CBD may cause liver damage. In clinical trials on Epidiolex, a CBD-derived prescription medication used to treat seizures, was linked to an increased risk for high liver enzymes, a sign of liver damage.
Dry Mouth
Also known as “cotton mouth,” CBD can potentially cause your mouth and eyes to feel very dry. Though this side effect is more likely to occur with THC, it can happen with CBD as well. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common side effect of different medications and substances. The exact reasons why CBD causes this effect are not fully understood, but some research suggests that CBD's impact on the endocannabinoid system might affect how saliva is produced.
CBD—the abbreviation for cannabidiol, a substance that's generally derived from the hemp plant—has skyrocketed in popularity over the last five years. In fact, according to research, "CBD" as a Google search term remained stable from 2004 to 2014 but has since ballooned by up to 605%.
CBD is one of the many chemical compounds that is found in the cannabis plant—referred to as cannabis sativa. There are two primary parts of the plant that humans use. One is THC, or Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, and the other is CBD. Though they're from the same plant, THC and CBD are quite different from each other.
CBD is not an intoxicating substance, whereas THC is a psychoactive that can get you high.
— JAS MATHARU-DALEY, MD, PHYSICIAN AND CONSULTANT FOR A CBD BRAND
She adds, “[Another difference is that] CBD is derived from hemp and has been classified as a legal substance. Hemp has <0.3% THC. Conversely, cannabis plants such as marijuana are grown to have much higher levels of THC and are still illegal according to the FDA, although individual states vary as to their use.”
What to Know About Marijuana Use
There are several reasons why someone might want to use CBD. The substance can be found in a multitude of products ranging from pain-relieving creams to edible tinctures to skincare. Research is still underway, but over the last few decades, scientists have become more aware of how CBD might be beneficial when applied topically or ingested.
“Since discovering the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body in the 1990s, CBD has been researched more extensively. The ECS is a central regulatory system restoring normal balance and homeostasis in a range of human physiologic systems throughout the body and brain and has cannabinoid receptors and chemicals in its function,” explains Dr. Matharu-Daley.
CBD benefits include the following:
•CBD can have a positive impact on the brain. Dr. Matharu-Daley says the substance is legally prescribed in a specific medication for certain severe forms of epilepsy in children.
•It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which is why you often see CBD in topical products such as oils, creams, and lotions.
•Some research points to CBD’s ability to relieve stress and anxiety.
It's important to point out that CBD is not regulated by the FDA and therefore dosages might not be accurate. It’s also difficult to know the appropriate dose the first time you try a new product.
If the CBD is from a reputable source and one that has been inspected by a third-party independent lab, the content of CBD is more reliable.
— JAS MATHARU-DALEY, MD, PHYSICIAN AND CONSULTANT FOR A CBD BRAND
She also notes that, “The CBD should be organically grown, free of pesticides and heavy metals, and not sourced in food which can affect absorption. Generally, CBD is safe and side effects are few at low doses.”
CBD is technically an unregulated substance in the United States and therefore it ought to be used with caution. This is especially important for those taking additional medications and/or those with ongoing medical issues.
That said, preliminary research on CBD and its benefits are promising in relation to helping with mild to moderate health concerns and it is generally considered a safe substance. Health professionals do not consider CBD a cure-all for serious medical issues, including cancer.
As with any sort of supplement, talk to your doctor about whether using CBD makes sense for you. Your doctor can also recommend certain products that align with your needs and help ensure you get the correct dosage.
Is Cannabidiol (CBD) Addictive?
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- Wendy Rose Gould
May 14, 2023 · What Side Effects Are Possible With CBD? Although CBD is sold in many products, including edibles, beverages, beauty products, and more, it’s not without risk. You should be aware of possible side...
Aug 21, 2019 · Cannabidiol (CBD) oils are low tetrahydrocannabinol products derived from Cannabis sativa that have become very popular over the past few years. Patients report relief for a variety of conditions, particularly pain, without the intoxicating adverse effects of medical marijuana.
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Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: More common. Agitation. chest pain.
