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Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant and is sometimes included in prescribed medical cannabis products in the UK. CBD does not produce a “high,” but it can still have effects on the body, which is why its use is considered within a clinical framework.
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available in the UK when prescribed by a specialist doctor through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf. You can find out if you’re eligible for a medical cannabis prescription by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website.
Please note: Cannabis-based medicines are prescription-only medicines. They may not be suitable for everyone, and eligibility is determined by independent clinical assessment. Treatment is not first-line and outcomes vary; benefits are not guaranteed, and side effects and risks exist.
As with many medicines, patients may experience side effects, and understanding these in a clear, balanced way is an important part of informed treatment decisions.
What Is CBD and Why Can It Cause Side Effects?
The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are just two of these natural compounds, and they’re what you’ll see most often when researching medical cannabis. Although THC and CBD can potentially interact with the body in similar ways, they can also have different potential effects. But, they both work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabinoid system, or the ECS, is a messenger and receptor system that plays a big role in homeostasis. Research suggests that the ECS influences and modulates things like mood, appetite, sleep, and more. One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. Many experts believe that, by consuming compounds like CBD and THC, it’s possible to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body.
And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
Although CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high,” it can still cause physiological effects, which is why side effects may occur in some patients. Physiological effects are biological and functional changes within the body to help maintain homeostasis.
In the UK, prescribed CBD is supplied as a pharmaceutical-grade product within a regulated medical framework, whereas over-the-counter CBD products are not licensed medicines and are not held to the same clinical standards.
Common CBD Side Effects
While the majority of patients experience little to no side effects from medical cannabis, patient experience does vary. And scientists are still studying the long term effects.
Below are some common side effects of CBD and THC that usually go away on their own. These short-term side effects aren’t usually concerning, but if they don’t improve over time, or they bother you, speak to your clinician.
- Dry mouth and dry eyes
- Irritation to the eyes
- Feeling sleepy or tired
- Dizziness
- Increased hunger
- Thirsty
- Coughing when inhaled
We’ve got more information on the side effects of medical cannabis here.
CBD and Drug Interactions
CBD is broken down in the body by enzymes in the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) system. All you really need to know about this is that it’s a system that also processes many other medicines. Because of this, CBD may affect how certain medicines are metabolised, potentially altering their effects and may contribute to CBD oil side effects in some patients.
For this reason, patients are advised to inform their prescribing doctor about all current medications before starting CBD, so any potential CBD and medication interactions can be considered. This can potentially minimise side effects, such as CBD drowsiness, and can help your clinician prescribe medication that is most suited to you and your needs.
What To Do If You Notice Side Effects
If you’re new to medical cannabis, we always recommend you start low and go slow, to avoid any unwanted side effects. You might also want to consider consuming food before and/or after medication and drinking lots of water to stay hydrated.
We recommend you speak to your clinician if short-term side effects don’t improve over time, or they bother you, and especially if they get worse or interfere with daily activities. Your doctor may change your dose or suggest other treatments. Dosage should only be adjusted under clinical guidance and most side effects ease as the body adjusts. It could also help to talk to your registered GP, as the symptoms might be caused by something else.
You should call 999 or go to A&E, and contact Alternaleaf as soon as possible, if you experience any severe side effects such as:
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Psychosis, which is where you see or believe things that aren’t real, feel paranoid, or feel extremely powerful
- Chest pain, trouble breathing, or irregular heartbeat
- Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) which is severe vomiting after long term cannabis use
Does CBD Cream Cause Side Effects?
Topical CBD products, such as creams, are generally associated with minimal absorption into the bloodstream, so any side effects are usually limited to the area where they are applied. In rare cases, this may include mild skin reactions such as redness or sensitivity. We recommend patch testing a small area of skin before applying the cream in larger amounts.
If any symptoms occur and persist, you should stop using the product and speak with a healthcare professional.
FAQs
Can CBD make you feel drowsy?
CBD may cause drowsiness at higher doses. To avoid unwanted side effects, it’s best to consume medical cannabis in line with your clinicians recommendation.
Can CBD interact with my current medication?
Yes, CBD can potentially interact with some medications because it affects how the body processes certain drugs. The best thing to do is inform your doctor or clinician about all medicines you’re taking ahead of prescribing.
What should I do if I experience side effects from CBD?
Stop consuming and speak to your clinician as soon as you can, and especially if symptoms persist or worsen. You should always follow your clinician’s guidance.
When should I contact my clinician?
If short-term side effects don’t improve over time, or they bother you, and especially if they get worse or interfere with daily activities.
Summary
If you’re considering medical cannabis, the best thing to do is seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.