Interaction of Cannabis (CBD/THC) and Medications
How do medications and cannabis interact?
Cannabis consumption is also set to be legalized in Germany. This is on the agenda of the new federal government. It is known that the consumption of marijuana and hashish is widespread in the population even without legalization. Therefore, we would like to anticipate and draw attention to possible interactions.
Interaction of Cannabis (CBD/THC) and Medications: CBD and THC are the two most well-known active ingredients of more than a hundred cannabinoids in the hemp plant
It is already known, for example, that there is an interaction with the "anticoagulant" Marcumar and its generics that is, with drugs that have the same active ingredient composition but a different name. The consumption of cannabis during Marcumar therapy can result in an increased risk of bleeding. This can be dangerous, as Marcumar patients know that bleeding during Marcumar intake is difficult to stop. This applies not only to external bleeding but also, for example, to bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. A corresponding interaction with cannabis is also possible for another group of anticoagulant medications, the direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) such as Pradaxa (Dabigatran), Xarelto (Rivaroxaban), and Eliquis (Apixaban).
Conversely, when the anticoagulation is induced by Plavix (Clopidogrel), there can be a reduced antithrombotic (blood-thinning) effect. The risk of blood clots forming increases in this case due to cannabis consumption.
Similar interactions are described for a variety of other medications and are partly only suspected. We have taken the example of anticoagulants because this is considered proven, and anticoagulants are often prescribed for cardiovascular diseases for example, after having experienced heart attacks and strokes.
To ensure that the high does not turn into a headache, please do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist about any possible interactions with your medications if you wish to consume cannabis.
Sources:
By Sabine Croci.
This article is medically reviewed. Last updated (03/2024).
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