Cbd side effects
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Common Side Effects of Cannabidiol (CBD)
Clinical studies consistently report that the most common side effects of CBD include tiredness or fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite or weight. These effects are generally mild to moderate in severity and occur more frequently at higher doses of CBD 34. Sedation and somnolence (sleepiness) are also commonly observed, especially in studies involving patients with epilepsy or when CBD is used alongside other medications such as clobazam 126.
Serious Adverse Effects and Drug Interactions
Serious adverse effects from CBD are rare but can occur. The most notable serious side effects include elevated liver enzymes (transaminases), which are especially likely when CBD is used together with certain other medications like valproate, a common anti-epileptic drug 1245. Other rare but serious effects reported include pneumonia and upper respiratory tract infections, particularly in children with epilepsy who are taking multiple medications 12.
CBD can interact with other drugs by affecting how they are metabolized in the liver. This can increase the risk of side effects from both CBD and the other medications. For example, CBD can increase the sedative effects of clobazam and may require dose adjustments of other drugs metabolized by the same liver enzymes 2345.
Tolerability and Safety Profile
Overall, CBD is considered to have a favorable safety profile compared to other medications used for similar conditions, such as epilepsy and psychiatric disorders 34. Most people tolerate CBD well, and the risk of severe side effects is low when it is used appropriately and under medical supervision 136. However, monitoring is recommended, especially for people taking other medications or those with underlying liver conditions 125.
Special Considerations for Children and Epilepsy
In studies involving children with epilepsy, side effects such as abnormal liver function, sedation, and infections are more common, likely due to interactions with other anti-epileptic drugs 12. Careful monitoring and possible dose adjustments are important in these cases.
Potential for Counteracting THC Side Effects
CBD may also help reduce some of the psychotropic and psychiatric side effects caused by THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis. Research suggests that CBD can counteract THC-induced cognitive and affective disturbances, possibly by affecting specific brain signaling pathways .
Conclusion
CBD is generally well tolerated, with the most common side effects being tiredness, diarrhea, and changes in appetite or weight. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include liver enzyme elevations and drug interactions, especially in people taking other medications. Monitoring and medical supervision are recommended, particularly for children with epilepsy and those on complex medication regimens. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term safety of CBD, especially outside of clinical trial settings.
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