| Common Brands | Epidiolex, Charlotte's Web, CBDistillery, Medterra, Joy Organics |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Cannabinoids |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Over the counter |
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a naturally occurring chemical compound of the cannabis plant. It has garnered much attention in the last decade due to its potential therapeutic applications, ranging from the reduction of anxiety to pain relief. In contrast to its more famous cousin, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, CBD is non psychoactive; it does not induce a “high” upon consumption.
CBD is thought to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is a highly complex cell-signaling system, involved in regulating a variety of physiological processes such as mood, sleep, appetite, and pain sensation
CBD can be use in various ways depending on the desired effect and its formulation. Here are the common ways of using CBD.
Oils and tinctures: These are liquid extracts of CBD that one usually takes sublingually, under the tongue. This method allows for the faster absorption into the bloodstream, and effects are often felt within 15 to 45 minutes. The dosage can be easily altered by increasing or decreasing the number of drops.
Capsules and Pills: The capsules of CBD deliver a definite dose, hence easy to manage the CBD consumption. It is easy to insert into your daily routine, but takes a little time to set in compared to tinctures.
Topicals: CBD creams, balms, and lotions can be applied topically to the skin. Such products are commonly used when pain is localized, and also for skin-related diseases such as acne or eczema. CBD has not been absorbed in the bloodstream via the skin so that its effects would appear only at the place of administration.
Vaping: CBD can be inhaled through vaporizers to quickly absorb into the body through the bloodstream. However, vaping is still relatively unsafe and so should be taken carefully.
CBD inhibits FAAH (Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase), an enzyme that breaks down anandamide (a natural cannabinoid in the body). Higher levels of anandamide lead to improved mood and reduced pain sensations.
May be CBD is relatively harmless, some users may still observe side effects, especially upon taking higher doses. Some usual side effects include:
Drowsiness or Fatigue : CBD has a sedation effect, causing drowsiness or tiredness to some users, especially among those who take high dosage.
Dry Mouth: To some users, consuming CBD causes dry mouth. There is a known side effect of smoking cannabis products.
Changes in Appetite or Weight: CBD may cause some alterations in appetite, including increased or decreased appetite. This can be associated with weight changes.
Diarrhea: There are possible gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, especially when consuming CBD in large amounts.
Nausea: This is an infrequent side effect of CBD, generally when taken together with other medications or at elevated dosages. If any of these adverse effects worsen or do not go away, a health care provider should be consulted.
While CBD is considered relatively safe, there are specific precautions one should take: Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding: There is little evidence of exposure to CBD for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, and one must be cautious during such times unless the treating doctor permits its use.
Drug Interactions: CBD can interact with many drugs, which may alter their effects. Always consult a doctor if you are on prescription medications.
Liver Health: CBD may affect liver enzymes and liver function in some individuals. Patients with liver disease should use CBD with extreme care and under a healthcare provider’s supervision.
Quality Control: Not all CBD products are created equal. Some contain contaminants, while others have inconsistent dosages. Choose a reputable brand that provides third-party lab testing for quality and purity.
This can interact with a variety of drugs, so this is a significant consideration for people on pharmaceutical treatments for other conditions. Some of the most common interactions are with drugs that are metabolized by the liver. In particular, CBD can impact the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which metabolize many drugs. This means that CBD may either enhance or inhibit the effects of certain medications, leading to increased or reduced efficacy.
For example, when a patient is on blood thinner medication such as warfarin, the level of that drug in the blood can be increased.
But again, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before the use of CBD, mainly for those who are on prescribed medications. They can give us close monitoring of potential interactions and adjust dosages in time.
The perfect dose of CBD differs with the individual. This would be a function of the individual’s weight, the severity of the condition being treated, and even the tolerance level. One cannot give a general or a standard dose but normally begins at low and gradually increases to reach an effective level.
The common dosing starts at around 5-10 mg of CBD per day.
In case the subject does not feel the effect after a few days, the dose can be gradually increased by 5-10 mg. Keeping track and noting the dosage and change in symptoms will be useful in determining the right amount for one’s needs.
CBD products that have less than 0.3% THC are available in many countries without prescription. Still, in some regions, CBD is considered a prescription medication if it is used to cure specific diseases like epilepsy. It would always be a good idea to look into the laws of your jurisdiction on whether CBD is legal, or at least available by prescription, in your region.
If you are considering using CBD as part of a treatment plan for a medical condition, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to guide you on the right dosage, possible interactions with other medications, and any contraindications.
Answer: Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive chemical compound found in the cannabis plant, known for its potential therapeutic properties without causing a “high.”
Answer: CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various physiological processes such as mood, pain sensation, and immune response, potentially helping to maintain homeostasis.
Answer: CBD may offer various benefits, including relief from anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, and seizures. It is also being studied for its effects on conditions like epilepsy and PTSD.
Answer: The legality of CBD varies by country and state. In the U.S., hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC is federally legal, but some states have specific regulations.
Answer: No, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the euphoric effects associated with THC, another well-known compound in cannabis.
Answer: CBD can be taken in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and vapes.
Answer: There is no standard dosage for CBD; it can vary based on individual factors like body weight, age, and the condition being treated. It’s best to start with a low dose and adjust gradually.
Answer: Some people may experience side effects such as fatigue, diarrhea, changes in appetite, or interactions with other medications. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting CBD.
Answer: CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly those that are metabolized by the liver. Consult your doctor before combining CBD with other treatments.
Answer: CBD is not considered addictive, and it does not produce the dependence associated with THC or other drugs.
Answer: Yes, CBD has been shown to reduce the frequency of seizures in certain types of epilepsy, particularly in children, and is FDA-approved in the form of Epidiolex for this use.
Answer: Some studies suggest that CBD may help alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms, but more research is needed to establish its effectiveness and safety for these conditions.
Answer: CBD products should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat, to maintain their potency and shelf life.
Answer: No, the quality of CBD products can vary significantly depending on the source, extraction method, and manufacturing practices. Look for reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing.
Answer: Yes, many pet owners use CBD for their animals, with potential benefits for anxiety, pain, and other conditions. However, consult a veterinarian before giving CBD to pets.
Answer: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive component of cannabis that causes a high. CBD, on the other hand, does not have psychoactive effects and may counteract some of the effects of THC.
Answer: Check for the ingredient list, CBD concentration, THC levels (if applicable), a certificate of analysis (COA) from a third-party lab, and expiration dates.
Answer: The onset of CBD’s effects can vary depending on the method of consumption. Inhalation methods (like vaping) may have effects within minutes, while edibles may take 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Answer: Current research suggests that CBD is generally safe for long-term use, but ongoing studies are needed to understand its long-term effects fully.
Answer: For more information, consult healthcare professionals, visit reputable medical websites, or explore literature from cannabis research institutions.
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