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CBD side effects: What are the dangers of Cannabidiol oil drops?

Oct 11, 2023

Cannabidiol, better known as CBD, has become increasingly popular for its potential health benefits in recent years. It belongs to the group of cannabinoids, of which more than 100 varieties have been discovered in the cannabis plant. In Switzerland, CBD oil is officially allowed and sold as a chemical (for example, for aromatherapy) or as a cosmetic product, but it is not formally approved for oral consumption. This raises the question of what risks or dangers CBD drops may have. Are CBD drop side effects potentially dangerous to health? You can find all the valuable information about taking CBD and the side effects of CBD oil in this article. This way, you can buy products with peace of mind from our online CBD shop.

What are the side effects of CBD?

Although CBD is widely known for its potentially beneficial effects, educating yourself about its impact on your safety and health is essential before adding CBD oils or flowers to your cart. It is also important to note that the side effects of hemp-derived CBD products are infrequent and usually occur when exceeding the recommended dosage. Here are some observations of cannabidiol side effects.

Headaches and migraines

Even though the cannabinoid CBD is often used to combat headaches, excessive consumption can sometimes have the opposite effect. The reason can be as simple as incorrect dosage. The dosage should then be adjusted to reduce the side effects of CBD oil. Before that, we recommend discontinuing CBD consumption in case of side effects and consulting a doctor if necessary. CBD oils are supposed to help you and not lead to side effects.

Dry mouth

Cannabinoid receptors can be found throughout the body, including the oral cavity and salivary glands. Cannabidiol interacts with these receptors and can sometimes cause a dry mouth by inhibiting salivary secretion. Although this can be uncomfortable, drinking juice or water can quickly alleviate this CBD side effect. It is more of a minor side effect of CBD drops. Besides the mode of action via the endocannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system, a dry mouth can also occur naturally from smoking.

Loss of appetite: Less appetite than usual

Unlike its psychoactive counterpart, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), known to induce feelings of hunger, CBD can paradoxically do the opposite and lead to a reduced appetite. While few studies point to this effect, the corresponding mechanisms are not yet fully understood. This side effect has raised hope that CBD could help with weight loss.

Digestive problems: diarrhea, stomach, and digestive discomfort

Although Cannabidiol is recommended for fighting digestive problems, the opposite can happen, and users may experience side effects from its intake. In sporadic cases, CBD can lead to constipation or diarrhea. If these symptoms persist, adjust the CBD dosage or frequency of information. Ideally, stop consumption entirely until the side effects have subsided.

These types of complaints can occur, particularly after excessive consumption of Cannabidiol. Therefore, consuming only high-quality products that private laboratories check is essential. It is all the more important to buy CBD products exclusively in a certified CBD shop, which usually has the best selection of products with CBD from Switzerland. Many other shops offer inferior products.

Fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness

Depending on the dosage, the use of CBD can lead to feelings of fatigue. Therefore, experts often recommend taking it before bedtime to shorten the time it takes to fall asleep. However, drowsiness can also be undesirable so this effect can be understood as a side effect. It depends on whether the applications are combated or induced sleep disturbances.

CBD oil side effects including fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness
CBD oil: Understanding its side effects like fatigue, drowsiness, and dizziness

Other and rarer side effects of CBD oil

As mentioned earlier, side effects of CBD oils are already relatively rare. In addition, when side effects are noted, they are usually as listed above. Therefore, they are generally mild to barely present, especially compared to the existing benefits. Remember as a rule of thumb that high doses or long-term use tend to trigger these CBD overdose side effects. So stick to the recommended dosage and pay attention to your body’s signals. It is also advisable to consult a doctor beforehand, mainly if preexisting conditions exist.

Lowering of blood pressure

Hemp oil can act as a blood thinner. It can increase the blood-thinning compound called Coumadin in the body. This means individuals with low blood pressure should seek medical advice. This also applies to individuals with certain blood disorders or bleeding disorders.

Allergic reactions

Like any product, an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in CBD oil is possible. In such cases, the body perceives specific components of CBD oil as harmful and attempts to neutralize them through inflammatory reactions. For example, a case report in the journal “Frontiers in Pharmacology” described how several women developed skin rashes from using CBD cosmetics.

Elevated intraocular pressure

This infrequent side effect can only occur when consuming high amounts of CBD. In such extreme cases, it can lead to an increase in intraocular pressure. However, conflicting research recommends CBD for glaucoma, as excessive intraocular force can cause problems.

Although these are some of the reported and known CBD oil side effects, CBD affects each person differently. The side effects are often mild to minimal, especially with the existing benefits. As a general rule, remember that high doses or long-term use are more likely to trigger these CBD overdose side effects. So, adhere to the recommended dosage and pay attention to your body’s signals. It is also advisable to consult with a doctor beforehand, especially if you have preexisting conditions.

Side effects of CBD as a medication

Side effects of Epidiolex CBD medication
Epidiolex: A CBD medication and its associated side effects.

After successful clinical trials, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States recognized its first medication with CBD as the active ingredient: Epidyolex. This medication is now also approved in the EU. This medicine is intended to treat seizures and rare forms of epilepsy in children and adults. These severe forms include Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, among others. Studies have shown that the number of drop attacks could be reduced by up to 64% and the number of convulsive seizures by up to 61%.

Of course, this only FDA-approved prescription drug containing CBD medicine has potential adverse effects. It can lead to drowsiness, decreased appetite, diarrhea, fever, fatigue, and vomiting. The most common reason for discontinuing treatment was elevated liver enzyme levels in the blood.

Contraindications: Who should avoid taking CBD?

As a medicinal preparation, CBD has gained significant recognition in recent years. However, it is essential to be aware that even with therapeutic use, there can be potential side effects. Therefore, if in doubt, you should always consult a doctor and discuss the use of CBD.

First and foremost, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should avoid taking CBD. The effects of this cannabinoid on the baby have not been adequately researched, making it advisable to err on the side of caution.

Individuals with heart and arterial issues are also advised against CBD unless their doctor recommends otherwise. Due to potential fluctuations in blood pressure, CBD could be risky for these individuals.

People taking blood-thinning medications or those with other blood-related issues should consult their doctor before using CBD. The same applies to individuals who need to take drugs, whether on a long-term or acute basis. Your doctor should be able to explain whether CBD interactions are expected.

Interactions with other medications

Caution is necessary when taking CBD simultaneously with other medications. Studies have shown that hemp extract can influence the effectiveness of certain drugs. Open communication with the treating physician is essential before starting CBD. Your doctor is knowledgeable about the mechanisms of medications and CBD in detail so that they can assess potential intersections.

CBD can also interact with certain medications, especially those containing anti-inflammatory agents, by affecting drug metabolism in the liver. Excessive CBD dosage can temporarily affect cytochrome P450 enzymes, altering how the body metabolizes certain substances. Thus, it’s crucial to consult a doctor before using CBD with other medications. This is particularly important if your pharmacist has contraindicated the use of drugs with fruit juice, citrus fruits, or fermented products. While Cannabidiol has a minimal effect on the immune system, it can interfere with the action of some medications. Since it’s challenging for individuals to keep track of this, your doctor should take care of it for you.

Interaction of Cannabidiol with other medications
How does Cannabidiol interact with other medications? A closer look.

Health issues: Liver dysfunction and low blood pressure

Individuals with preexisting conditions should exercise extra caution. Studies have shown that taking CBD can increase the burden on the liver. This does not mean CBD is directly harmful, but regular high-dose usage can elevate the risk of liver damage. Furthermore, “CBD oil side effects racing heart” can be problematic for individuals with pre-preexisting blood pressure. In these cases, a consultation with a physician is advisable. Your doctor can assist you in monitoring the effects of CBD and oversee its use.

Worsening Parkinson’s disease symptoms

While many Parkinson’s patients report relief of their symptoms through CBD, there is also evidence that high doses can potentially worsen symptoms.

Research on Cannabidiol as a treatment for movement disorders is promising but has pitfalls. CBD can sometimes help with spasticity but may exacerbate it in other situations. Research suggests that high doses of CBD could intensify spasticity, although this is not a scientific consensus. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult a doctor or medical professional, especially when considering CBD as a therapy for Parkinson’s. Patients with Parkinson’s often have limited treatment options, making CBD a potentially beneficial addition for some patients.

CBD use during pregnancy

The safety of CBD consumption during pregnancy is still unclear. There could be potential risks to the fetus. Risks naturally increase when CBD is smoked or inhaled. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid consumption.

There aren’t many studies on CBD use in pregnant women due to the legal challenges of administering CBD to pregnant subjects. However, existing research raises concerns that taking Cannabidiol could reduce the placenta’s protective function. The risk is too high, so women should avoid CBD consumption during pregnancy altogether.

CBD contraindications for pregnant women
Is CBD safe during pregnancy? Understanding the contraindications.

For allergies to hemp products

Of course, individuals with a known allergy or intolerance to hemp products should avoid using CBD oil. Although such allergic reactions are relatively rare, they can occur in some cases and cause unpleasant symptoms.

Sometimes, the allergic reactions may not be to CBD oil. Instead, it may be due to additives or impurities in CBD products that trigger the side effects. Therefore, it’s worth purchasing high-quality products from a certified specialty store. Additionally, it’s recommended to check the ingredients, which we at uWeed, for example, make possible through self-funded and independent lab tests.

What causes side effects?

When examining the causes of CBD side effects, we first need to clear up some common misconceptions.

1) Caused by other Cannabinoids, such as THC

The hemp plant contains over 60 cannabinoids, including CBD and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both have differing effects on our bodies. While CBD is often praised for its therapeutic properties, THC is the cannabinoid that induces psychoactive effects.

Many people mistake equating “CBD oil side effects” with THC. CBD is a chemical component extracted from the hemp plant Cannabis Sativa. This component differs from THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol, which is present in cannabis. CBD has no psychoactive effects, but THC does. So, when consuming cannabis with THC, it’s essential to differentiate appropriately between the cannabinoids. Some individuals may have a THC intolerance, in which they do not respond well to THC. Additionally, side effects of THC oil may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Drowsiness
  • Euphoria
  • Forgetfulness
  • Red eyes
  • Dry mouth
  • Anxious states
  • Increased heart rate
Increased heart rate as a side effect of CBD oil
CBD oil and its potential to increase heart rate: What you need to know.

2) Taking excessive amounts of CBD

Another factor that can significantly influence CBD oil side effects is the dosage. Like with any substance, an excess of CBD can lead to an unpleasant reaction. This makes it especially important to ensure that you consume CBD products responsibly and in appropriate doses.

3) Poor-quality or expired CBD products

Finally, poor-quality or expired products can also contribute to the occurrence of side effects. When purchasing, you should trust high-quality brands and pay special attention to the manufacturer’s indications regarding the expiration date.

Buying from reliable sources and using safe methods can help minimize the risk of CBD side effects. But, like with any product, always be cautious and know your body well.

As a result, we at uWeed double-check every product. We taste-test it within our team, and we must approve a product before it’s included in our range. Additionally, we send every product for independent lab tests at our own expense. We add it to our inventory only when a product exhibits the desired purity and quality and the manufacturer’s specifications align with the lab results.

The debate on the dangers of CBD

With the increasing popularity of Cannabidiol (CBD), discussions about potential risks and dangers have emerged. Some claim that CBD is safe, while others highlight possible side effects. But how dangerous is CBD?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published a report stating, “To date, there is no evidence of recreational use of CBD or any public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.” In the same report, the WHO also declares that there is no evidence that CBD oil, with or without THC, has any potential for physical or psychological dependence. This makes it an excellent option for many seeking long-term (complementary) treatments. This report is primarily based on new findings from several studies, showing that Cannabidiol is not toxic and not psychoactive. Furthermore, it has proven effective in alleviating symptoms for many patients, even with chronic use at high doses of up to 1,500 mg/day.

Current research on the safety of CBD

The current state of research on CBD suggests that it is generally well-tolerated and safe. According to the World Health Organization’s 2017 report, “CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.” However, it is stressed that further research is needed.

  1. Various studies have found that CBD can be helpful, particularly for chronic pain relief and muscle relaxation. At the same time, high doses of CBD may lead to side effects, including fatigue or diarrhea.
  2. It is established that pure CBD can be used safely and does not produce psychoactive effects like THC. It is also explained that the harmful effects of CBD on the brain are not definitively proven.

Before using any of these products, caution is still necessary. Unfortunately, not all available products contain the stated amount of active Cannabidiol.

It’s also essential to raise public awareness about counterfeit or low-quality products. One should always pay attention to potential contaminants and accurate labeling of the Cannabidiol content.

In the end, there is still an ongoing debate regarding the safety of CBD. Despite numerous positive reports, it remains a fact that further studies are necessary for the definitive clarification.

Conclusion: Should you be afraid of CBD side effects?

Everyone has distinct needs, a health profile, and a unique body. As a result, each person metabolizes CBD in their way, leading to varying effects from person to person. This means that some people may experience mild side effects. People taking medication or suffering from chronic illnesses should consider using CBD only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Always consult your doctor before beginning treatments, even with natural products like CBD oils. By taking some precautions, you can easily prevent CBD side effects. This way, you can enjoy the beneficial effects without concerns. If you need more information about the products or the effects of Cannabidiol, you can contact our customer service (you can find it in the menu on the uWeed website).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about CBD side effects

This section presents some of the most frequently asked questions about “CBD side effects.” This is solely to expand your knowledge on the topic and possibly address any concerns.

What should you do if you suddenly experience CBD side effects?

If you experience unexpected CBD side effects after taking CBD products, the first step is to discontinue use immediately. It’s essential to consult your doctor and report any suspected reactions to CBD. Not all symptoms and the timing of their occurrence provide your doctor with a precise description.

How to prevent side effects with CBD oil?

Specific prevention of CBD oil side effects can be ensured by following some basic rules. Most importantly, in case of any doubts about consumption, consult a doctor. Your doctor can consider your situation and determine if CBD is your proper treatment. Apart from this basic rule, you should follow these three steps.

First, ensure that high quality is always on board; high-quality products contain fewer impurities that could lead to issues. Second, it’s advisable to start small and gradually increase the dosage. Finally, always stay hydrated, which can help with side effects like dry mouth.

Do CBD drops cause side effects in pets?

Yes, like in humans, CBD side effects can occur in pets. These may range from diarrhea and nausea to drowsiness and unusual behavior. It’s essential to pay attention to the dosage and consult a veterinarian before using the product. The application should generally be external in animals, such as for skin inflammations or similar issues.

Is too much CBD harmful?

An overdose of CBD can intensify side effects but is not life-threatening. Studies suggest that “too much” is relative and influenced by age and body weight. In case of doubt, always start with a low dose and increase it only under medical guidance. This allows you to monitor the results of your treatment.

Is CBD harmful to the brain?

Current research findings suggest that CBD side effects do not significantly affect the brain. CBD may possess neuroprotective properties. However, it does not mean that it is entirely risk-free. Long-term effects are still poorly understood, so responsible usage remains essential.

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