In (popular) literature, cannabidiol (CBD), the main non-intoxicating compound in cannabis, is commonly hypothesized to reduce the adverse effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive and analgesic component of cannabis. We have put this hypothesis to the test in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial comparing the psychoactive and analgesic effects of oral THC alone, compared to THC combined with different doses of oral CBD. We found that CBD did not reduce the adverse effects of THC, but rather increased them by means of a pharmacokinetic interaction. Furthermore, CBD did not enhance the analgesic properties of THC. These results provide evidence against the hypothesis that CBD attenuates THC effects, highlight the potential for drug interactions even at low doses of CBD, and add to the understanding of cannabinoid analgesia. Read more in our new publication.
With this publication, we underline CHDR’s vision to contribute to societally important pharmacological topics. We are thankful for the funding we received from The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMw) to support this study (grant number 848120001).
