Understanding CBD Side Effects: A Comprehensive Overview

Understanding CBD Side Effects: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction to CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits. Derived from the cannabis plant, CBD is non-psychoactive and is often used to alleviate various health issues, including anxiety, chronic pain, and inflammation. While many users report positive effects, it is essential to understand the potential side effects of CBD and how they compare to common over-the-counter medications.

Common Side Effects of CBD

Research indicates that CBD is generally well-tolerated by most individuals. However, some users may experience mild side effects. According to a study published in Neuropsychopharmacology (Chesney et. al, 2020), the most commonly reported side effects of CBD include:

  • Fatigue: Some users may feel tired or lethargic after taking CBD.
  • Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal discomfort, including diarrhea, has been noted in some cases.
  • Changes in Appetite: CBD may lead to increased or decreased appetite in certain individuals.
  • Dry Mouth: A common side effect associated with many cannabinoids, including CBD.

While the study found abnormal liver results in childhood epilepsy patients, these were likely due to drug interactions and not CBD alone. When these patients were removed from the data, a low incidence of diarrhea was the only side effect.

CBD vs. Over-the-Counter Medications

When comparing the safety profile of CBD to that of common over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, the differences are striking. Research indicates that both ibuprofen and acetaminophen can lead to serious side effects, including liver damage, gastrointestinal bleeding, and cardiovascular issues, especially when used long-term or in high doses.

A study in Health Psychology Research emphasizes that while CBD has a favorable safety profile, the risks associated with over-the-counter pain relievers can be significant (Shehata et. al, 2022). For instance, acetaminophen overdose is a leading cause of acute liver failure in the United States, while long-term ibuprofen use can result in kidney damage and increased risk of heart attack.

The Safety of CBD

Numerous studies support the assertion that CBD is one of the safest substances available. The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential. Furthermore, a comprehensive review in Current Neuropharmacology concluded that CBD is well-tolerated in humans, with a low incidence of adverse effects (Madeo et al., 2023).

Conclusion

In summary, while CBD may cause mild side effects in some individuals, it is overwhelmingly regarded as one of the safest substances available, especially when compared to common over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen. As always, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

For more information on CBD and its effects, explore our resources or consult with a healthcare provider to determine if CBD is right for you.

References

Chesney E, Oliver D, Green A, Sovi S, Wilson J, Englund A, Freeman TP, McGuire P. Adverse effects of cannabidiol: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2020 Oct;45(11):1799-1806. doi: 10.1038/s41386-020-0667-2. Epub 2020 Apr 8. PMID: 32268347; PMCID: PMC7608221.

Shehata I, Hashim A, Elsaeidy A, Nair A, Urits I, Viswanath O, Kaye AD, Habib M. Cannabinoids and Their Role in Chronic Pain Treatment: Current Concepts and a Comprehensive Review. Health Psychol Res. 2022 Oct 4;10(4):35848. doi: 10.52965/001c.35848. PMID: 36628124; PMCID: PMC9820704.

World Health Organization. Cannabidiol (CBD): Critical review report. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2018 May.

Madeo G, Kapoor A, Giorgetti R, Busardò FP, Carlier J. Update on Cannabidiol Clinical Toxicity and Adverse Effects: A Systematic Review. Curr Neuropharmacol. 2023;21(11):2323-2342. doi: 10.2174/1570159X21666230322143401. PMID: 36946485; PMCID: PMC10556379.