Can you overdose on CBD?
CBD is everywhere
Numerous effects on the human body have been attributed to cannabidiol, in most cases as a result of research. Only a few have been confirmed, such as anxiolytic, antinausea, anti-inflammatory and antipsychotic effects. However, user reviews suggest that CBD can help with chronic pain, inflammation and infections, autoimmune diseases, anxiety and skin problems, and sexual difficulties. The currently most popular compound from cannabis affects everyone differently. While there are contraindications such as pregnancy or trying to conceive, and health complications related to the liver, heart or low blood pressure, CBD is commonly referred to as a safe substance, as confirmed by the WHO.
CBD is an ingredient in many products. Oils and capsules are the mainstay, but the market is much richer and offers sprays suitable for use in reflux, discreet patches, topical products to alleviate the symptoms of eczema, lubricating gels, chewing gum or sweets for those who do not like hemp oil. CBD is almost everywhere and the number of people taking it in multiple forms at once is increasing. This raises the question of whether it is possible to overdose on cannabidiol.
Ideal amount of CBD
The exact daily dose is difficult to determine. Each body has different requirements and reacts at different amounts of cannabidiol. The result depends on body weight, hormones, immune system or stress, which strongly influence the body and its functioning. A 2017 review study shows that a person is able to ingest up to 1500 mg of CBD per day without serious side effects. This corresponds to roughly one 10 ml bottle of CBD oil with 15% concentration, or half a bottle (5 ml) with 30% oil and vice versa. It is unlikely, however, that anyone would consume such a quantity even in a single bump.
When following the recommended amounts for all CBD products, a few drops of cannabidiol in your salad won't hurt and will still only be a small fraction of the 1500 mg limit above. With the normal use of CBD products, it is almost impossible to ingest such a large amount of cannabidiol that serious side effects will occur. Non-life-threatening (mild and common) ones include dry mouth, nausea, dizziness (light-headedness) or redness of the eyes. On the other hand, the use of CBD should be preceded by a consultation with a physician who will set the appropriate dose and also identify possible contraindications.
Watch out for grapefruits
Consumption of grapefruit is not recommended for certain medications, such as those to support the immune system after transplants, to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, to reduce allergic reactions, or for contraceptives. Cannabidiol should also be avoided for the same drugs.
Risks associated with CBD
Apart from mild side effects, which the body is able to cope with and which subside relatively quickly, more serious ones, such as excessive drowsiness, severe diarrhoea and vomiting, may occur, however small their prevalence.
Two case studies from recent years describe situations where CBD overdoses have occurred. The first case concerns a fifty-six-year-old man who, in order to relieve his severe back pain, consumed two packs of CBD gummy bears. Although it was "only 370 mg", which is about a quarter of the limit the human body should be able to handle, shortly after consumption he began to speak unintelligibly, become less articulate and vomit. After administration of antiemetics, there was a significant improvement in his condition within 24 hours. The second case concerns a child who received his first dose of CBD. A few hours later, his parents found him unresponsive. From urine tests, doctors found large amounts of THC in the young patient's system. The hospital intubated the child, but managed to stabilize him and today he is without consequences.
In both cases it is not clear what was behind the strong reactions of the organism. However, the sudden complications were probably due to the poor quality of the CBD products. Contamination from toxins and substances that cannabidiol comes into contact with during cultivation or production is relatively common. However, companies should have all products analysed and certified. And users should only choose from a range that is transparent in all respects.
Summary
The WHO considers cannabidiol to be safe and the daily dose of CBD that should not harm a person is about 1500 mg. Contamination by foreign substances and inappropriate reactions of the body that cannot be predicted in advance are unnecessary health risks if the manufacturer knowingly exceeds the recommended amount.
PHOTO: Shutterstock
"All information provided on this website, as well as the information provided through this website, is for educational purposes only. None of the information contained herein is intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis and such information is not to be considered medical advice or recommended treatment. This website does not promote, endorse or advocate the legal or illegal use of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances or the commission of any other illegal activity. Please see our Disclaimer for further information."