Surprising Side Effects Of CBD

CBD (cannabidiol) is gaining popularity for an array of benefits that include reduced anxiety, the easing of physical pain, and increased quality of sleep (via Healthline). While it is considered safe for most of the population, that does not mean it is without side effects. Whether you take it in the form of an oil, tincture, or gummy, it does have some side effects of which you should be aware so you aren't taken by surprise the first time you take it. 

There is limited research on the side effects of CDB, but one side effect worth noting by the Food and Drug Administration is liver damage. Health risks may also increase when using other drugs that CBD may negatively interfere with. Dry mouth is more likely to occur if you take CBD with THC, but you can also experience it with non-THC CBD. Ordinarily, drowsiness is considered a benefit of CBD but it is also a side effect you should consider if you are already taking drugs to help you relax. Some people also experience nausea when taking CBD. Of course, some of these side effects depend on how much CBD you are taking and how you ingest it (via Verywell Mind). 

Another surprising side effect of taking CBD involves other medications you might be taking. CBD contains an enzyme that prevents the body from fully metabolizing some medications. To help you decide if you should try CBD, look for a grapefruit warning on the bottles of any medications you are currently taking. Grapefruit contains this same enzyme as CBD. In fact, the enzyme may bind with certain parts of the gut and liver, intensifying the effects of the drug. To add to this, it could take several days for enzymes to perform as normal (via Forbes). Medications affected by this enzyme include antibiotics, blood thinners, antiepileptic drugs, medications for lowering blood pressure or cholesterol levels, drugs to treat erectile dysfunction, medications to manage pain or anxiety, and drugs prescribed for GERD or other gastrointestinal problems (via Healthline).

One way to be sure if CBD is right for you is to discuss it with your doctor.