From the Guidelines
CBD gummies can have significant effects on the body, including potential risks for hepatotoxicity, particularly at high doses, and should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. When considering the use of CBD gummies, it is essential to be aware of the potential short- and long-term risks, as outlined in the ASCO guideline 1. The guideline highlights that while cannabis and/or cannabinoids are generally well-tolerated, they can cause common side effects such as dizziness, confusion, dry mouth, and fatigue, as well as more serious side effects like tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension, severe confusion, and paranoia.
Some key points to consider when using CBD gummies include:
- Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed to minimize adverse effects, particularly in older adults and those naive to cannabis and/or cannabinoids 1
- Being aware of the potential for hepatotoxicity, particularly at high doses, as reported in a meta-analysis 1
- Monitoring liver enzymes and considering the possible effects of CBD on hepatotoxicity in the cancer setting 1
- Understanding the potential long-term side effects of cannabis and/or cannabinoid use, including GI, cardiovascular, respiratory, oncologic, and psychiatric risks 1
It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before using CBD gummies, especially if you take prescription drugs, as CBD may interact with certain medications. Additionally, choosing products with third-party testing and clear labeling of CBD content can help ensure quality and safety. Overall, while CBD gummies may have potential benefits, their use should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider to minimize risks and maximize benefits.
From the Research
Effects of Cannabidiol (CBD) Gummies
- CBD gummies have been found to have potential therapeutic effects for various health conditions, including chronic pain, stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia 2, 3, 4.
- The combination of THC and CBD has been shown to enhance the analgesic effect and counteract some of the adverse effects of THC 2.
- CBD-only medication has substantial evidence for stress, moderate evidence for anxiety and insomnia, and minimal evidence for depression and pain 2.
- Low-dose CBD has been found to have a good tolerability and safety profile, with few adverse effects, and is appropriate as an initial treatment for chronic pain and mental health conditions 2, 4.
Adverse Effects and Interactions
- Common adverse effects of CBD include transaminase elevations, sedation, sleep disturbances, infection, and anemia 5.
- CBD has the potential for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic drug-drug interactions, and can inhibit several Phase I and II metabolism enzymes, increasing the exposure to a wide range of drugs 2, 5.
- CBD can interact with other drugs, and patients should be aware of potential safety issues with CBD use, especially in medically complex patients 5.
Efficacy and Safety of Low-Dose CBD
- Therapeutic benefits of CBD become more clearly evident at doses greater than or equal to 300mg 4.
- Increased dosing from 60 to 400mg/day does not appear to be associated with an increased frequency of adverse effects 4.
- At doses of 300-400mg, there is evidence of efficacy with respect to reduced anxiety, as well as anti-addiction effects in drug-dependent individuals 4.