CBD gummies
Sales of CBD products and gummies have rapidly become a popular and convenient method of ingesting cannabidiol. CBD gummies are frequently sold as a “natural” remedy for a huge range of uses, from anxiety and chronic pain to insomnia and sleep issues, and are almost always marketed as originating from “innocuous” sources. As is the case with any supplement or substance, adverse effects can occur, whether that is simply a mild upset stomach or more serious or unusual unintended effects.
Though most individuals will experience little to no adverse effects, it is important to understand that adverse effects are a possibility when taking CBD gummies, especially in the context of the CBD industry still largely being unregulated in the United States. Therefore, the primary focus of this blog post will be on the more overlooked realities that come with using CBD gummies with a focus on general side effects and drug interactions, as well as a discussion on product quality and additives.
Negative side effects CBD gummies
The side effects are generally related to individual variation in your body and variability in physiology.
Dry Mouth
One of the most commonly reported side effects referred to as “cottonmouth,” or dry mouth, is due because the compound CBD (cannabidiol), interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which modulates saliva. More specifically, CBD interacts with the receptors in submandibular glands that secrete saliva. This causes inhibition of the secretion of saliva resulting in a dry, sticky mouth. While this side effect isn’t dangerous, noticeable, uncomfortable, but not dangerous. It is easily remedied with hydration.
Drowsiness
Many CBD gummy users have told us they felt relaxed and drowsy. If you are not treating for sleep, you might not want the drowsiness effect, especially at higher dosages. It is true that CBD can relax your nervous system and provide assistance with sleep, but it may also inhibit someone’s performance, or provide lethargic or groggy feelings, particularly during the day, and especially if, for example, you have to drive or operate a machine. If you are new to gummies, the experts suggest taking your dosage evenly and at bedtime night, to see how your body might react.
Gastrointestinal Complaints
Gastric complaints are some of the most frequent complaints from gummies as well, but typically diarrhea, nausea or appetite disturbance. While the CBD might potentially be making that happen in the digestive systems, it is more likely to be caused by the carrier oils that were used in the gummies, such as an MCT oil or some edible oil that will tend to use in their gummy, and which could create that issue if it is larger than amounts that you would digest without CBD.
Additional Serious Concerns
While the aforementioned potential side effects are generally unremarkable, there are some additional serious concerns, which should be included, in the ongoing conversation and collaboration with your health care provider.
Liver Damage
One of the most concerning side effects of CBD is liver damage. In clinical trials of a high-dose, prescription-only CBD product called Epidiolex, elevations in liver enzymes were noted; elevations in liver enzymes may indicate liver damage. Keep in mind that the doses used in the Epidiolex studies are much greater than doses in the gluten free over-the-counter CBD gummies. Regardless of the dose differences, this is a concern, especially if you have a prior liver disease, liver injury, liver damage or are taking medications that will be metabolized by the liver; after all, the liver metabolizes CBD, and higher doses of CBD over time may impair the metabolic function of the liver.
Drug Interactions
This is another important point to emphasize. CBD has high potential to interact with medications and inhibits a class of enzymes in the liver.
CBD may interact with many types of prescription drugs, including the following classes:
Blood thinners: CBD could raise blood thinner levels and may represent an increased risk of bleeding.
Antiepileptic medications: CBD affects the pharmacokinetics for some prescribed seizure medications and may in turn need a dose change.
Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications: Co-use with these classes of medications could potentially have an additive sedative effect and other unknown effects.
Blood pressure medications: CBD can reduce blood pressure. If used with a blood pressure medication, you may be at increased risk of low blood pressure.
You should check with your doctor or pharmacist for any drug therapy you are taking prior to using or taking CBD gummies along with prescription medication.
Consumers need to be aware of:
Inaccurate labeling: A recent study of 84 CBD products purchased online revealed that over one fourth of the products contained no CBD at all, and some products contained much more than was claimed on the label which could lead someone to accidentally have too much and make themselves feel sick.
Contamination: Without regulation and third party testing, there is a risk that CBD products are contaminated with unwanted substances. The hemp plant is a “bio-accumulator” which means it absorbs unwanted contaminants (including heavy metals, pesticides, and toxins) from the soil at a great rate, especially if raised in unhealthy soil.
Unlabeled THC content: For individuals who want to avoid THC (the psychoactive component of cannabis), this can be a large complaint. Many products which advertise as “THC-free”, and “broad-spectrum” may still illicit illegible properties containing affected traces of THC. Although this probably wouldn’t be enough to get high, this could be a violation of Employment policies for individuals who have job screening tests to avoid THC.
Final Thoughts
It is wrong to accept that CBD gummies are harmless and totally free from risk. There are side effects like dry mouth, sedation, and gastrointestinal disturbances, along with the serious risks of liver damage, and drug interactions should be considered. The unregulated nature of the industry makes trusting the purity and potency even more difficult.
There are many considerations before joining the CBD gummy trend, such as; doing your research, purchasing from reputable manufacturers with third-party lab testing, and most importantly, the need for an open and honest dialogue with your provider. Consideration of all the knowledge you build, good, bad, and unknown, is your first step to making an informed health and wellness decision.
FAQs
What are CBD gummies?
CBD gummies are edibles that contain cannabidiol oil. These gummies come in different strengths , flavors and formulas.
How long does it take for CBD gummies to start working?
CBD gummies usually take from 30 to 90 minutes to start giving you the effect to the user. It depends on your metabolism and dosage. It lasts for 4 – 8 hours.
What is the dosage for CBD gummies?
An ideal amount to start would be to take 5 to 10 mg of CBD per gummy if you are a beginner. Then wait and see how it reacts on your body before raising the level of dosage.
About the Author
