Who Can Take CBD?

In Italy, especially since 2017, doctors can prescribe cannabis-based preparations for specific clinical conditions, such as chronic pain, the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. But what do doctors and their patients know about the therapeutic use of hemp? In fact, currently, medical training in our country is insufficient. Those who prescribe, and even those who consume, medical or recreational cannabis should not ignore the potential risk of interference with other medications used as therapy or anesthesia. Some are known and are already subject to medical indications, but little is known about others or they are the subject of ongoing studies. To clarify the situation, an article published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal: the three authors, affiliated with St Michael’s Hospital at the University of Toronto and McMaster University in Canada, summarized what is known about the interactions between cannabinoids and other medications in five key points.

Medical cannabis in Italy

In Italy, it is remembered (here the legislation explained on the Luca Coscioni association page), prescriptions can be made in different cases. The uses, reported by the Ministry of Health, concern chronic pain and, in general, pain associated with multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries. Doctors can prescribe it if the patient has nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and anti-HIV treatments. But also as an appetite stimulant in cachexia, anorexia (also mental anorexia) and for all cancer patients or those treated with antiretrovirals for HIV who are losing their appetite. It can then be used to treat the hypotensive effect due to treatments for glaucoma. And finally in reducing involuntary body and facial movements in Tourette syndrome.

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5 things to know about drug interactions and cannabinoids

Today, Canadian scientists emphasize how the use of medical cannabis, as well as smoking marijuana (legal in Canada since October 2018) can have interactions with other medications. And they focus on the main issues related to cannabis consumption with medications. All in a sort of reminder in 5 points, to consider if you are taking cannabis. Here are the 5 things to know.

1. Cannabis, enhanced effect

Sometimes, taking certain medications can increase the effects of cannabis for medical or even recreational purposes. Ketoconazole, an antifungal agent for fungal skin infections, nearly doubles cannabinoid levels. A similar effect also occurs when taking commonly used antibiotics, such as macrolides, which increase the risk of adverse effects associated with cannabinoids.

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2. Cannabis, side effects

The second point of the document states that not only do some medications enhance the effect of cannabinoids, but they can also influence the effect of other medications. For example, they can increase their concentration and the risk of side effects.

3. Cannabis, reduced effect

Thirdly, regularly smoking marijuana can increase the clearance of certain drugs. Clearance provides a measure of the extent to which our body can eliminate the substance, in this case, the administered drug. And this factor must be taken into account as it can alter the effects of the drug on our body.

4. Cannabis, cumulative effect

Fourthly, marijuana can have a “cumulative effect” with certain medications, which increases their side effects and adverse effects. It can thus cause tachycardia, high blood pressure, and depression of the central nervous system.

5. Beware of warfarin and asthma and epilepsy medications

Finally, an important point concerns the consumption of marijuana in association with warfarin, an anticoagulant that thins the blood. The alert also concerns certain asthma medications and those for controlling seizures. Although further research is needed, experts point out that marijuana could have potentially serious interactions if you are taking these medications.

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