CBD is all the buzz these days. Certain CBD companies like to say that it’s an effective cure for a variety of ailments. But, what is CBD? CBD is the acronym for cannabidiol, which is a type of chemical compound found in cannabis plants.
Pure CBD produces no psychoactive effects or the “high” or “stoned” feelings that are common with marijuana use. Many people tout CBD as a near miracle cure for everything from childhood epilepsy to migraines to cancer. However, there is a need to proceed with caution.
CBD is available in enough forms to make your head spin. You can get drops or tinctures, topical creams or patches, shampoo, deodorants, bath bombs, vapes, gummies or chocolates, honey, coffee or water, capsules, and even suppositories to help with menstrual cramps.
Do you need to know more about substance abuse treatment? Call us today at 833.551.2304.
A Brand Name Doesn’t Insure Quality Control
Even reputable companies that sell CBD products, however, warn that many cannabis products including CBD may have had environmental contamination due to pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers used in production. They also warn that some products may contain heavy metal or solvent contamination that occurs during the process of extracting the oil from the plants.
CBD is a substance that the liver must process. Remember that it can interact with over-the-counter or prescription medications that the liver must also process. A system within the liver called the Cytochrome P-450 is responsible for metabolizing 90% of the foreign substances we consume including drugs and medications and eliminating toxins. This process can be inhibited or stimulated by drugs creating interactions that can cause adverse reactions or therapeutic failures.
CBD can slow the process of some medications and increase the value of others. It is important to know if medications you take may be affected by CBD.
Potentially Troublesome Interaction
Any drug metabolized by Cytochrome P-450 enzymes could potentially interact with Cannabidiol.
According to the Indiana University Department of Medicine, drugs known to use the Cytochrome P-450 system include:
- Steroids
- HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (Statins)
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Antihistamines
- Prokinetics
- HIV Antivirals
- Immune Modulators
- Benzodiazepines
- Anti-Arrhythmics
- Antibiotics
- Anesthetics
- Anti-Psychotics
- Anti-Depressants
- Anti-Epileptics
- Beta Blockers
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
- NSAIDs
- Angiotensin II Blockers
- Oral Hypoglycemic Agents
- Sulfonylureas
Products that are labeled as pure CBD should contain no THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. THC is the part of the plant that creates the psychoactive “high” and is also is what tests positive on drug screens. There is some belief that THC improves the analgesic properties of CBD. Consequently, some less-than-reputable businesses may leave some THC to potentially improve the performance of their products.
The Lack of Standardization
Standardization and nationwide quality assurance testing are lacking. In 2015 and 2016, the FDA issued warning letters to some CBD hemp oil retailers for making medical claims that were unproven or for their CBD content not being as labeled. Some products tested by the FDA had no cannabidiol at all.
The CBD Cannabidiol Regulatory Agency (CBDRA) recently tested 37 products and found that:
- 10 failed to meet their claimed level of CBD
- 12 were listed as “Warned by the FDA”
- A mere 15 products passed their test
Price doesn’t seem to be a determining factor in whether a product meets testing standards. One item that sold for $6.99 passed the test. Remarkably, another item that sold for $90.00 failed the test. Clearly, this is cause for concern.
Get the Help You Need
At Gulf Breeze Recovery, we make it a priority to stay informed about products that can impact individuals dealing with substance abuse issues. CBD alone is not addictive. However, it’s a substance that must be metabolized through the liver and may interact with other medications. Additionally, it is not always pure or as labeled. It is wise to always research products thoroughly and clear their use with a doctor.
If you or someone you care about has an ongoing history of substance use and relapse, don’t wait, contact us today at Gulf Breeze Recovery or call 833.551.2304 to speak to an addiction expert to learn more about our program that has helped so many people overcome their addiction and embrace life.
