Advil and weed are two substances that are often used to relieve pain and inflammation. Advil is a common over-the-counter medication, while cannabis is a plant that has been used for centuries for medicinal and recreational purposes.
But before combining these two substances, it’s important to delve into the possible interaction between Advil and weed, including their effects on the body, potential risks, current research, and insights into how consumers can combine these substances safely.
So, whether you’re a medical cannabis patient or simply looking for pain relief, read on to learn more about the interaction between Advil and cannabis.
What Is Advil?
Advil is a brand name for a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) called ibuprofen. NSAIDs are a type of medication that works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever.
Patients commonly use NSAIDs for pain relief, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, toothache, arthritis, and muscle pain. They are also used to reduce fever and swelling and to manage conditions like gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
NSAIDs are widely available over-the-counter and are some of the most commonly used medications in the world. Over 30 million people use NSAIDs every single day.1 As such, their use makes up 60% of the US over-the-counter analgesic market.2
The chemical characteristics of NSAIDs vary, but most work by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX).3 This enzyme plays a critical role in producing prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that cause pain and inflammation in the body.4
By blocking COX, NSAIDs reduce the production of prostaglandins and help ease pain and inflammation.
It’s important to note that while NSAIDs can help manage pain and inflammation, they can also have side effects, especially if taken for a prolonged period or at high doses.
NSAIDs can also interact with other medications, including cannabis, and should be used with care in specific populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Advil Risks
While Advil can be an effective medication for managing pain and inflammation, it is not without its risks. This is particularly true if taken in excess or combined with other drugs.
Some potential dangers of using Advil include:
Advil Side Effects
The most common side effects include stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms can be problematic for individuals with a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or Crohn’s disease.
Besides gastrointestinal issues, Advil can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly if taken in high doses or over a long period. This risk is particularly pronounced in individuals with a history of heart disease or high blood pressure and in those who are over the age of 60.
Advil can also cause liver and kidney damage, particularly if taken in excess or with other medications that can affect these organs.
Advil’s Potential Interactions with Other Drugs
It’s also important to note that Advil can interact with both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.5 For example, Advil can increase the risk of bleeding if taken with blood thinners.
It can also interact with certain antidepressants and other medications. Individuals need to speak with their healthcare provider before taking Advil if they are taking other medications to ensure no potential interactions occur.
Advil can also interact with alcohol and certain herbal supplements, such as St. John’s Wort.6
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to Advil or other NSAIDs can be severe and life-threatening.7 People who are allergic to aspirin are more likely to be allergic to NSAIDs, including Advil.
An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a foreign substance, in this case, Advil.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Advil can include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. In severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur, a medical emergency that can cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and a loss of consciousness.8
If you experience these symptoms after taking Advil or any NSAID, seek medical attention immediately.
It’s essential to always read the label and follow the recommended dosages when taking Advil or any other medication. If you experience any unwanted side effects or complications while taking Advil, speak with your healthcare provider immediately.
Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any other medications, supplements, or substances you are taking, including cannabis, to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Interactions Between Advil and Weed
While research on the specific interactions between Advil and weed is limited, the way they work in the body can shed some light on potential interactions.
Both ibuprofen and weed can affect the central nervous system and feelings of pain and inflammation in the body.9 Advil works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which can cause pain and inflammation. Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, which can also have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.10,11
While there are no clinical studies on human subjects regarding the combination of ibuprofen and cannabis, there is one particularly fascinating study to make note of. A 2021 study has shed light on the potential impact cannabis may have on the metabolizing enzymes in the liver and kidneys.12 According to the research, cannabis can impede these enzymes, resulting in a slower breakdown of drugs, such as Advil. It is possible, then, that using cannabis could prolong the presence of drugs like Advil in the body, increasing the risk of unintentional overdose because of a slower metabolic process.
However, this was shown only in kidney cells grown in laboratories. Further human trials are necessary to establish the full extent of the consequences.
Always speak with your healthcare provider before using Advil and cannabis together to ensure safe and effective treatment. Understanding the potential interactions between these substances can help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
Can Advil Enhance the Effects of Weed?
There is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that Advil may enhance the effects of weed, but research on this topic is limited.
One study found that NSAIDs like ibuprofen had the potential to mitigate the adverse cognitive effects (such as memory deficits) that may come with consuming marijuana.13 But, beyond this, the science remains relatively scarce.
Nevertheless, there is one mechanism that suggests (in theory anyway) that Advil could enhance the effects of cannabis. The human brain naturally produces chemicals similar to those produced by cannabis, called endocannabinoids, such as anandamide.14 This chemical is quickly broken down by enzymes or absorbed by nearby cells. Drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin, however, can prevent the breakdown of anandamide (thereby increasing its effects) by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for its metabolism. Perhaps, then, a similar mechanism of action takes place for THC (as both THC and anandamide bind to the same cannabinoid receptors).15
However, it’s important to note that combining Advil and cannabis may not always be safe or effective. Similar to ibuprofen’s potential to inhibit the metabolism of some endocannabinoids, it’s possible that cannabinoids may lengthen the time it takes for Advil to metabolize in the kidneys and liver. Thus, while it’s unclear if Advil can enhance the effects of cannabis, it may be such that cannabis can enhance the effects of Advil. As a result, combining the two may lead to an increased risk of side effects or complications.
It’s also important to consider individual factors when using Advil and cannabis (either separately or together). Age, weight, and overall health can each affect how the body processes and reacts to these substances.
Is It Safe to Combine Advil and Weed?
Combining Advil (ibuprofen) and weed (cannabis) can carry potential risks that consumers should be aware of. While research on the specific interactions between these substances is limited, it’s crucial to speak with your healthcare provider before combining the two to ensure safe and appropriate treatment.
Potential Drug Interactions
Both ibuprofen and weed can interact with other medications.
For example, Advil can interact with blood thinners, such as warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. It can also interact with other NSAIDs, such as aspirin, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage.
Therefore, always speak with your healthcare provider before using Advil and cannabis together.
Increased Risk of Side Effects
Both Advil and cannabis can have side effects, such as stomach upset, dizziness, and drowsiness. Combining these substances may increase the risk of these side effects or make them more severe.
Because Advil can increase the risk of bleeding or stomach ulcers, using it with weed may further irritate the stomach and digestive system.16
Mixed Effects on Pain and Inflammation
While cannabis and Advil can have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, they may not work in the same way or for the same pain.
Several studies suggest that cannabis may be effective for neuropathic pain.17 Whereas NSAIDs like Advil may be more effective for inflammatory pain.18
While there is limited research on the specific interactions between Advil and cannabis, it’s generally recommended to proceed with caution and consult your healthcare provider before using these substances together.
Your medical cannabis doctor can help you understand the potential risks and benefits, along with strategies for safe and effective use.
Advil or Medical Marijuana: Which is Better for Light Pain Relief?
When it comes to light pain relief, both Advil and medical cannabis are commonly used options. However, the effectiveness and side effects of each vary and can influence a consumer’s decision.
Advil is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain. Studies have shown that Advil can treat light pain relief, such as headaches or menstrual cramps.19 However, long-term use or high doses can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and other side effects, such as kidney damage.
On the other hand, medical marijuana contains cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce pain and inflammation.
Studies have shown that medical cannabis can be effective for chronic pain relief, such as that associated with cancer, multiple sclerosis, or neuropathy.20 However, it can also have side effects, such as impaired cognitive function, dizziness, and anxiety.
The decision between Advil and medical cannabis for light pain relief is ultimately up to the consumer and their healthcare provider. It’s necessary to weigh the effectiveness and side effects of each, as well as individual factors such as age, weight, and overall health.
If you’re considering medical cannabis to treat pain or inflammation, it’s crucial to obtain an MMJ card and consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in medicinal cannabis applications.
Conclusion
Few studies have been conducted that investigate the links, interactions, and effects of combining Advil and cannabis, and more research is needed to understand exactly how they may interact in the body.
For this reason, consumers should speak with their healthcare provider before combining these two drugs, especially if they have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.
If you have concerns or questions about cannabis laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician, or another licensed professional.
References
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2. York PG PharmD Candidate 2016 Marina Manniello, PharmD Candidate 2016 Michele Pisano, PharmD, CGP Assistant Professor Department of Clinical Health Professions College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences St John’s University Queens, New York Carmela Avena-Woods, BS Pharm, PharmD, CGP Associate Clinical Professor Department of Clinical Health Professions College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences St John’s University Queens, New. NSAIDs: Balancing the Risks and Benefits. www.uspharmacist.com. https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/nsaids-balancing-the-risks-and-benefits
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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
