How does CBD work?
CBD works by interacting with the body’s
endocannabinoid system. This is a network of receptors found throughout the
body. It plays a regulatory role in various bodily functions including pain,
mood, energy metabolism, sleep and many more. This regulatory process helps the
body maintain homeostasis.
In conjunction with the endocannabinoid system, CBD
may also bind to CB receptors in the body. There are two main types of
cannabinoid receptors; CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are mainly found in the brain
and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are primarily foun in
peripheral tissues such as the immune system.
Can I use CBD if taking medication?
When medication enters the body is goes through the
process of metabolisation. This means it is broken down into other chemicals
that are then excreted. The majority of of this metabolisation takes place in
the liver. It is carried out by a group of enzymes called Cytochrome 450 or
CYP450.
CBD inhibits a specific CYP450 enzymne, CYP3A4. The CYP3A4 enzyme is predominantly responsible for metabolising a large proportion
of clinically perscribed medications. Due to this inhibitation, medications may
not be broken down as fast as they normally would. This can lead to medication
stacking in the body, which can lead to undesired effects.
Grapefruit, Seville oranges and tangelos also inhibit
the CYP3A4 enzyme. This is due to them containing chemicals called
furanocoumarins. A general rule of thumb is not to take CBD with medication
that carries a “grapefruit warning”, unless medically advised.
