Side Effects of CBD: What You Need to Know
Author: Lucie Garabášová
CBD offers numerous potential benefits, but it's important to be aware of its side effects. While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience fatigue, nausea, and changes in appetite. Most side effects occur within the first few days of use.
What are the Side Effects of CBD?
CBD is well-tolerated by most people, even at higher doses or with long-term use. Unlike THC, CBD does not have psychoactive side effects. Most studies conducted on animals and humans have shown no significant side effects from CBD. However, some research reports mild side effects affecting a small percentage of users.
Common Side Effects of CBD:
- Fatigue
- Change in appetite
- Diarrhea
- Changes in liver enzyme metabolism
According to studies, CBD can be taken in higher doses without negative effects. Doses around 500 mg per day are considered safe. However, some individuals benefit from doses as low as 15 mg per day. It's crucial to find your ideal CBD dose.
Side Effects of CBD on Drug Metabolism
CBD can affect the liver's ability to process certain drugs. In a 2011 report, researchers found that CBD acts as a "potent inhibitor" of enzymes involved in drug metabolism in the liver.
Important Points:
- Cytochrome P450 enzymes: These liver enzymes are crucial for metabolizing many drugs. CBD inactivates specific types of these enzymes, reducing the liver's efficiency in processing certain medications. Consumption of grapefruit may have a similar effect on drug metabolism.
- Consult your doctor: If you are taking prescription medications, always check with your doctor before combining them with CBD.
Specific Side Effects of CBD
Fatigue
A 2014 study on medical cannabis users found that those receiving CBD-rich strains were more likely to report fatigue. However, the cannabis used also contained THC, which is known to cause drowsiness. A 2015 study on CBD's effect on epilepsy found fatigue to be the most commonly reported side effect.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea was reported as a common side effect in a 2015 study on CBD's use in treating epilepsy. However, other studies have found that CBD does not affect the digestive tract's transit time. It's important to note that the dose used in this study was extremely high.
Changes in Appetite
Several studies have noted changes in appetite among CBD users. A 2014 Dutch study reported minor appetite changes in participants using a high-CBD variety of marijuana. However, these changes were more pronounced in those also using THC-rich varieties. It’s challenging to determine whether CBD alone was responsible for these effects.
How to Mitigate the Side Effects of CBD
Tips for Reducing Risk:
- Correct dosage: Always take the right dose and check for potential interactions with any medications you are taking.
- Start low and go slow: Gradually increase the dose until you achieve the desired symptom relief with minimal side effects. If you experience side effects, reduce the dose and increase it slowly.
- Consult your doctor: Always check with your doctor about potential interactions between CBD and other medications you are currently taking.
Summary of CBD Side Effects
While the positive effects of CBD are well-documented, it can cause mild side effects in some people. These include fatigue, changes in appetite, diarrhea, and alterations in liver enzyme metabolism responsible for drug processing. People with certain conditions, such as HIV, should exercise caution.
To minimize side effects:
- Monitor your dosage: Start with a low dose and increase gradually.
- Consult with healthcare professionals: Especially if you are taking other medications.
Sources:
Always be mindful of the dosage to minimize side effects. Start with lower concentrations and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of CBD.