CBD Oil Interaction With Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

cbd and anti-inflammatory medication

Updated Date: February 23rd 2023

Inflammation is a normal part of the body’s healing process, but when chronic or uncontrolled, it can become dangerous. 

Anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain and swelling. Recently, CBD oil has been gaining popularity as an alternative therapy for inflammation. 

But does CBD oil interact with anti-inflammatory drugs? 

In this guide, we'll explore what you need to know about the interaction between CBD oil and anti-inflammatory medications.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound in cannabis plants like hemp and marijuana. 

It does not produce intoxicating effects like THC, so it does not get users high. 

CBD oil is made by extracting the active ingredient from cannabis, then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil. 

It can be taken orally, inhaled, or applied topically on the skin.

What Are Anti-Inflammatory Drugs?

Anti-inflammatory drugs are medications used to reduce inflammation and swelling caused by arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and other conditions. 

They come in various forms depending on the specific need: over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and COX-2 inhibitors.

Does CBD Oil Interact With Anti-Inflammatory Drugs?

The interaction between CBD oil and anti-inflammatory drugs is not well understood yet, but research does suggest that there is potential for interactions to occur. 

Studies have found that some medications, like specific NSAIDs and corticosteroids, can decrease the effects of CBD when taken together. 

On the other hand, some medications like COX-2 inhibitors may increase the effectiveness of CBD oil when taken together.

It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any combination of medications or supplements – including CBD oil – as they can work together in unpredictable ways depending on individual biochemistry and health history.

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Conclusion

CBD oil has been gaining popularity as an alternative therapy for inflammation, but does it interact with anti-inflammatory drugs? 

Research suggests that there is potential for interactions to occur between CBD oil and medications like NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and COX-2 inhibitors. 

It’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any combination of medications or supplements – including CBD oil – as they can work together in unpredictable ways depending on individual biochemistry and health history.

Written by Jenny Martin, CBD Journalist

Medically Reviewed by Kimberly Langdon, MD