Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has been marketed as a therapeutic treatment for a variety of ailments. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the use of CBD from hemp to treat epilepsy, but research is still ongoing regarding how effective CBD is in treating other ailments.
The legalisation of marijuana and cannabis products is sweeping the nation. Hemp-derived CBD in particular is gaining mainstream interest for its purported health benefits, and its use is now legal and widespread in many states. CBD is a cannabinoid derived from cannabis. It has gained popularity recently because of its potential health benefits. But cannabidiol also comes with potential risks even when used in other medications.
Blood Thinners
CBD is an oil extracted from the cannabis plant, and it has become increasingly popular as a supplement or natural remedy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first drug containing cannabidiol, Epidiolex, in June 2018 for the rare forms of childhood epilepsy. However, CBD is still considered a Schedule I drug, which categorises it as a substance that has no accepted medical use, a high risk that it may be abused, and no accepted safety or effectiveness. While CBD is typically safe when taken as directed, people taking blood thinners should be careful when consuming it.
Epilepsy Drugs
Current research suggests that the cannabis-derived drug CBD should be beneficial for a number of conditions, including epilepsy. However, the FDA does not currently allow the use of CBD as a treatment for epilepsy. People who struggle with seizures, epilepsy, and other brain-based disorders are potentially at risk for serious side effects from the use of CBD, including liver damage or increased blood pressure. So, while it can have positive effects on some patients, it can also lead to serious health issues in others.
Chemotherapy Drugs
Chemo works. However, those who undergo chemotherapy often experience unpleasant side effects, including hair loss, nausea, and vomiting. While THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, is known to cause these effects, CBD, the non-psychoactive chemical compound found in hemp, is known to have the opposite effect, making it an appealing option for those undergoing chemotherapy.
Changes In Appetite
CBD may help ease the pain or nausea of chemotherapy, but appetite loss is a common side effect. In a study of 23 women with breast cancer, researchers found that 46% of patients had problems with appetite, more than usual or “not at all.” However, only 29% reported issues with weight loss, so appetite loss seemed to be more common than weight loss.
Changes In Mood
Most people who take cannabidiol do not experience adverse reactions, but side effects can include changes in mood. These changes can include feeling anxious, agitated, paranoid, irritable, or depressed. If you experience mood changes in taking cannabidiol, be sure to talk to your doctor or psychiatrist.
Diarrhoea
As people embrace cannabis as a medicinal plant, many are wondering if CBD oil may help treat their ailments. Like consuming other medications, CBD needs to be taken properly, which means avoiding known side effects. Nausea is the most common side effect associated with CBD oil, and up to four per cent of people who take it will experience diarrhoea. But as with anything, it can be serious if you’re experiencing diarrhoea, so it’s a good idea to check with your doctor before increasing your intake.
Dizziness
When taking CBD, you might notice a sensation of dizziness; in fact, dizziness is the most common side effect reported by people who take it. However, since it’s a common and expected side effect, you should experience it less frequently as you become more accustomed to taking CBD.
