By Amy Hansen, The Fresh Toast
There is nothing worse than being sick, no only do you bad, but you miss out on doing some fun things.
Being sick is no fun for multiple reasons. No matter what time of year, you feel you are going to miss out on fun things including seeing friends, sleeping well and imbibing. Often when sick, antibiotics are prescribed. They treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection. Their superpower is killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing and spreading. They are not effective on viral problems like the flu. But for them to be effective, you have to take them regularly and not do anything to interfere with their work. Alcohol is always a big no no when on antibiotics. Drinking alcohol can lower your energy and slow how fast you get better from illness. So it’s a good idea not to drink alcohol until you finish your antibiotics and are feeling better. But can you consume marijuana while on antibiotics?
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There hasn’t been much research on the interactions of cannabis and antibiotics, but commons sense comes into play. Research indicates marijuana use can increase the pain-relieving effects of opioids without increasing the levels of opioids found in plasma. This seems to reduce opioid use. The same research review noted children taking clobazam, an anti-seizure medication, and cannabidiol, experience increased levels of clobazam in their blood. And, those who are taking valproate and using medical marijuana appeared to be at higher risks for abnormalities in liver function.
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Unlike alcohol, there is still needed research to be done examining individual medications and how of marijuana use could change how they work in the body. Patients taking medication for chronic health conditions need to talk with their medical professional before using marijuana, but what if you’re on a short treatment using antibiotics? Can you use marijuana while taking antibiotics and kick your infection to the curb without complications of delay?
When it comes to taking antibiotics and using marijuana at the same time, currently, there is no research indicating it isn’t a safe practice. Some medical professionals have expressed concerns taking THC with antibiotics could increase the risk of unpleasant side effects of both. If you use while taking antibiotics, it’s best to keep an eye out for increased side effects and to stop using THC if you experience any. Currently, it is not on the list of drug interactions with antibiotics.
Another issue is marijuana impact on the immune system. In taking antibiotics to fight off an infection, the body has to do its part to get well. Early research suggests CBD may aid some antibiotics. But there is debate about how cannabis affects the immune system. Some research indicates marijuana may suppress the immune system, but there is also conflicting information suggesting it may make your immune system stronger and help it fight illness.
Ultimately, there don’t appear to be real risks associated with consuming marijuana while on antibiotics. If it a serious issue, always talk to your medical professional and monitor the situation. It is always a good idea to pay close attention to your body, noting adverse reactions and making changes if necessary.
The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.
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