CBD and Birth Control: Does CBD Affect the Birth Control Pill?

As we’ve covered in the past, CBD may interact with various medications, over the counter or otherwise. 

When examining the specific interaction between CBD and birth control, keep in mind that individual responses may vary. Personal physiology, exercise patterns, eating habits, metabolism, and more can alter CBD’s digestion. As various substances are added into the mix, your mileage may vary.

Additionally, more research is warranted on the subject before any conclusive statements can be made. The information we have now indicates that there should be a decrease in effectiveness when taking CBD with birth control pills. However, these studies have not identified the extent of this decrease, so we cannot say if the effect is meaningful. 

At this time, we cannot definitively state how cannabidiol will interact with other compounds. Still, as this information is valuable, we will dive into the available data and discuss the possible contraindication between CBD administration and the use of birth control.

CBD Oil and Oestrogen

Cannabidiol may alter the effects of various birth control preparations. Most importantly, contraceptives that feature oestrogen or synthetic oestrogen (ethinyl oestradiol) are likely to cause adverse reactions when combined with CBD.

When administered simultaneously, cannabidiol could decrease the contraceptive potential of oestrogen-based birth control formulas. Additionally, oestrogen could reduce the elimination of cannabinoids from the body, changing how these natural compounds influence our health. Together, these substances may also induce drowsiness and breakthrough bleeding. 

Since the cannabinoids will not leave the body properly when this combination is taken, uncommon side effects may present themselves. These include fatigue, dry mouth, changes in blood pressure, and digestive issues. This combination may also induce drowsiness and breakthrough bleeding. 

These side effects are likely to be uncomfortable but not dangerous. As always, more data is needed on the subject to be certain.

Which Contraceptives Work With CBD?

Cannabidiol should not impact the use of many contraceptives, such as IUDs and condoms. When selecting an oral birth control pill to combine with CBD, progesterone-only preparations may be the best choice. Please speak with a medical professional to identify the best option for you.

Keep in mind that additional substances could further complicate the situation, causing more adverse reactions or a greater risk of pregnancy. Smoking tobacco and frequent alcohol use are also likely to dull the effectiveness of birth control.

The CYP 450 Enzyme System

This liver enzyme system is partially responsible for the breakdown of a wide variety of medications. It just so happens that CBD inhibits the activity of these enzymes. This inhibition results in the slow breakdown and elimination of various drugs when they are taken with cannabidiol.

In many cases, this CYP 450 interaction is innocuous, causing no noticeable effects. In the case of other medications, the impact can be drastic. Blood thinners, anti-epilepsy drugs, and anti-cancer treatments are valuable medications that can turn dangerous when taken with cannabidiol. When these meds build up in the body, their common side effects get blown out of proportion, potentially causing life-threatening symptoms.

While the interaction between CBD’s CYP 450 inhibition and oestrogen-based birth control formulas is not fatal, a surprise pregnancy can be quite dramatic! Plan accordingly by speaking to your doctor before changing up your supplemental routine.

CBD, Oestrogen, and the Endocrine System: Does CBD Oil Help Balance Hormones?

Cannabidiol has a close link to the human endocannabinoid system. This network of endogenous cannabinoid components relates to various aspects of the human body, such as our immune network, nervous systems, and hormonal functioning. 

In fact, the ECS is intimately connected to hormone production on many fronts. The endocannabinoid network relates to growth hormone, oxytocin, and prolactin production, as well as the functioning of the sexual organs and the adrenal axis. 

As you care for the endocannabinoid system, it can effectively regulate this hormonal system, leading to healthy production of these vital hormones. All of the benefits associated with balanced hormonal levels can be expected as a result.

At this time, more research is needed to identify CBD’s potential to support hormonal function and production. With time and proper study from the appropriate administrative UK agencies, the properties of CBD will be unveiled. As soon as this information is released, we will be the first to share the details with our valued clientele. 

What Drugs Should Not Be Taken With CBD

While there may be other examples, the following list should cover the most critical medications that should not be taken with CBD:

• Warfarin
• Clobazam/Norclobazam
• Etoposide/Teniposide
• Oestrogen or Synthetic Oestrogen Birth Control
• Sedatives

There are a wide variety of other substances that may interact with cannabidiol’s enzyme inhibition. To see a comprehensive list of all drugs that interact with the CYP enzymes, please click here. Remember that not all of these interactions imply that CBD will cause trouble when co-administered with the medicines in question.

When in doubt, speak with a qualified medical practitioner before combining any substances, over-the-counter or otherwise. For the best information regarding safe CBD use and the latest news regarding the industry, please review our exclusive articles.
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