Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in marijuana plants, and it does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a high. CBD is usually formulated as an oil, but it can also be sold as an extract, vaporized liquid, and oil-based capsule. It is used in a variety of products, including foods, beverages, and beauty products. However, it is important to be aware that CBD can interact with certain medications, as it can change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications.For example, CBD could decrease how quickly the liver breaks down clobazam, eslicarbazepine, rufinamide, topiramate, zonisamide, brivaracetam, everolimus, tacrolimus, methadone, carbamazepine, sirolimus, stiripentol, lithium, tamoxifen, caffeine and citalopram.
This could increase the levels of these medications in the body and increase their side effects. Taking higher doses of CBD could also increase lithium levels and increase the risk of lithium toxicity.The FDA recognizes the potential benefits of CBD but more research is needed to understand its effects on the body. It is important to be aware that some CBD products may contain less CBD than what is stated on the label. Therefore, it is important to choose a quality product when using CBD.CBD-containing prescription drugs have been approved by the FDA after determining that the benefits outweigh the risks for the particular population for which they are intended.
However, other unapproved CBD products have not been evaluated by the FDA to determine if they are effective in treating a particular disease or if they have other effects that may be asserted.It is important to be aware that CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall within the legal definition of marijuana and are illegal at the federal level but legal under some state laws.
