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Does CBD have side effects?

11.August 2021 | Manuela

On a yellow background are a number of CBD products

When was the last time you held a package insert in your hand? Once unfolded, they are often hard to get back into the package. This is usually due to the long list of side effects. Today, we'll unpack the imaginary package insert of CBD and see if the side effects here cause just as much paper jam.

Individual effect

With CBD, you're sending a molecule from the cannabis plant into your body. It interacts with part of your nervous system. The effect is different in every body, because every body has different conditions and needs. Thus, any side effects are also very individual. Basically, the WHO, the World Health Organization, classifies CBD as safe. Nevertheless, side effects can occur, especially at high doses.

Chemical formula of CBD against green background

What is CBD?

Find out here

Possible side effects of CBD

  • Dry mouth

  • Headache

  • Drowsiness

  • Nausea

  • Dizziness

  • Diarrhea

  • skin rashes

  • insomnia

  • loss of appetite

  • decrease in blood pressure

  • increase in heart rate

  • Increase in intraocular pressure

  • Increased frequency of infections

CBD is generally well tolerated

Not the longest package insert, but still a considerable list. It may be put into perspective at this point. We have listed here all side effects that are mentioned in the current literature. Not all are equally frequent. Drowsiness and malaise have been reported most often, and often only at very high doses. The accompanying symptoms caused usually subside quickly. The effect of CBD diminishes after 4 - 6 hours. Nevertheless, a feeling of uneasiness should not be ignored and in case of doubt we advise against further use of CBD.

Someone holds the lid of a pipette and a drop comes off

Tips and tricks for CBD dosing

Learn more about CBD dosage

Drug interactions

CBD can alter the metabolism of some medications in your body. The way your liver breaks down chemicals can be affected. The liver is a kind of factory of the body; it pulls substances from the blood, sorts, removes, and redistributes them. In this way, it also makes enzymes that the body needs to break down drugs. CBD can inhibit such enzymes and alter the effects of drugs. According to the German Medical Journal, grapefruit can have a similar effect. You should consume CBD only under consultation with medical professionals if you are taking medication.

CBD during pregnancy?

There are studies that provide evidence that cannabis use can negatively affect pregnancy. For example, a 2013 cell experiment showed that CBD alters the action of proteins responsible for the protective function of the placenta. Safety first: If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid CBD.

Conclusion: Should I or shouldn't I?

  • Basically, CBD is considered safe and most consumers will not experience any side effects.

  • If you experience any kind of discomfort, you should avoid CBD.

  • Special caution should be taken with: Taking medication, known pre-existing conditions and during pregnancy/breastfeeding.

  • Basically, we always recommend consulting with your trusted physician.

Sources and further links

Dr. med. Grotenhermen, Franjo. Die Heilkraft von CBD und Cannabis. 2020. Hamburg. Rowohlt Verlag GmbH.

Mag. pharm. Hofmann, Susanne. Mag. pharm. Ehrmann, Alexander. CBD – die wiederentdeckte Naturmedizin. 2020. Murnau am Staffelsee: Mankau Verlag.

Leinow, Leonard. Birnbaum, Juliana. Heilen mit CBD – Das wissenschaftlich fundierte Handbuch zur medizinischen Anwendung von Cannabidiol. 2019. München. riva Verlag.

Huestis, Marilyn a. et al. Cannabidiol Adverse Effects and Toxicity. 2019. Current Neuropharmacology.

World Health Organization. Cannabidiol (CBD): Critical Review Report. 2018.

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