Although it might be used to treat a variety of health problems, marijuana is still a drug, through and through, and should be treated in the same manner as any other type of pharmaceutical compound. In that light, like any other medication, you have to consider whether or not it can interfere with more valuable drugs. Can it potentially put a damper on prescription medications while also (in a particularly dangerous twist) amplifying the effects of others? What risks are pot smokers taking when they decide to take their valuable meds and take a puff of the little green plant in the same day? Let’s take a closer look at how marijuana interacts with other medications on your daily list.
Drug Interactions Do Occur
In answer to the previous question, we can tell you “yes.” Marijuana’s active cannabinioids (like THC and CBD) can and will interact with a variety of medications. Still, how does this take place specifically? How can pot prevent your drugs from taking proper effect?
Simply put, the process begins in the cytochrome P450 system (a network of enzymes in the liver), which fully metabolizes an estimated 60% of all pharmaceutical drugs. However, keep in mind that this same system also processes THC and CBD in unique ways, too. Ultimately, the problems with drug interaction take place when the cannabinoids and prescription drugs attempt to latch onto these enzymes, resulting in a medication clash. Interestingly, though, Dr. Jordan Tishler (president of InhaleMD) explains that the P450 system’s receptors for CBD act differently than the THC receptors, meaning CBD is more likely to clash with meds than its more potent cousin.
More Than You Bargained For
On the flipside, some medications can actually manipulate the effects of THC. In this case, people may experience a weaker or stronger high than they normally would feel after consuming the little green plant.
Drugs that can boost THC’s effects include:
- Amiodarone
- Antidepressants (ex: Fluoxetine)
- Calcium antagonists
- Protease inhibitors for HIV
- Anti-mycotics
- Proton Pump inhibitors (ex: Cimetidine)
- Macrolides (ex: Clarithromycin)
For people who do use medical marijuana, some drugs might actually put a damper on THC’s effects. These substances include:
- Saint John’s Wort (herbal)
- Phenobarbitals
- Rifabutin
- Primidone
Seeking Treatment for Marijuana Use Disorder
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
