Ask an MD: Can I Take Edibles When Sick?

Since the coronavirus pandemic unfurled across the globe in March 2020, people are becoming more cautious about their health. According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), 62 million cases of the common cold in the U.S. result in medical attention or severe life disruption annually, and a case of the flu causes up to 41 million illnesses annually. 

Although various over-the-counter medicines are designed to combat runny nose, lingering cough, phlegm, and full-body lethargy associated with common sicknesses, their efficacy is often contested. 

Cannabis is emerging as a potential antibacterial and painkiller that may provide a whole host of benefits for people who are feeling under the weather.^1,2 Edibles hold the largest share of the market and are anticipated to generate $20.60 billion by 2028. 

Can I Take Edibles When Sick? 

If you don’t want to exacerbate respiratory symptoms, edibles while sick might be a good alternative to smoking. More in-depth research into the long-term effects of cannabis is necessary to outline the potential impact on pulmonary and respiratory diseases, immune system function, transmission risk, and immune dysfunction in chronic cannabis users.³

One study delved deeper into the effects of cannabinoid-based treatments on virus-host cell interactions. Researchers learned that, whether in cell lines or animals, said treatments had a monumental impact on the virus-host cell interactions.⁴

Various cannabinoids harbor potent antimicrobial and antiviral properties, including: 

• Cannabidiol (CBD)
• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
• Cannabigerol (CBG)
• Cannabichromene (CBC)
• Cannabinol (CBN)

A separate body of research exploring cannabis’ effects on COVID-19 patients found that cannabinoids have a suppressive and anti-inflammatory effect on the cytokine storm in lung injury. Collectively, these findings suggest that cannabis may be a safe addition to a person’s routine, even if sick.⁵ However, the existing evidence is not enough for the use of cannabinoids as pharmacotherapy against SARS-CoV-2, as well as other viral infections.⁶

“If you’re consuming cannabis while sick, edibles may be an optimal choice to avoid inhaling any smoke that may irritate the lungs and throat,” answered NuggMD medical practitioner Dr. Brian Kessler when asked if consuming edibles when sick is a good option.

Before you ingest a cannabis-infused treat, it’s worth understanding some basic edible safety tips. If you're using cannabis for fast symptomatic relief, edibles may not be the right option since the onset time is typically longer.

What Happens If I Take Edibles While Sick?

Science does not support the use of cannabis to treat a cold, but there's also nothing to say that it will make your cold worse, either. The body endures extra stress while sick, and just as your senses may respond differently, so may your body's response to cannabis.

Keep in mind that cannabis use may cause blood pressure to plummet suddenly, thus increasing the risks of fainting or lightheadedness. That said, large doses of cannabis edibles while sick may exacerbate symptoms if you already experience weakness or dizziness while suffering a common cough, cold, or flu.

“Consuming cannabis edibles isn’t likely to pose a significant risk to your health." says Dr. Kessler. "For some people, and in the right doses, cannabis can help alleviate feelings of nausea. However, it should be noted that if you are already feeling unwell, the intoxicating effects of the edibles may not alleviate your symptoms and could potentially make you feel worse."

Consuming edibles with a cold may increase the severity of cold- or flu-related stomach symptoms, particularly if you typically have this reaction when using cannabis. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a rare condition associated with long-term cannabis use that results in stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. 

The development of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome consists of multiple different pathways regarding CB1 receptors and other mechanisms.⁷ Depending on strain choice, cannabis use may result in stomach pain and inflammation. A lower dosage may be the answer (or refraining from cannabis use until you recover). Conversely, the plant may offer analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Some research even shows that cannabis may ease COVID-19 symptoms.

Cannabis edibles don't carry the same respiratory risks as smokable cannabis. There's ample evidence highlighting smokable cannabis' adverse respiratory-triggering effects. Reports emphasize that smoked cannabis may amplify asthma, cough, phlegm, throat inflammation, lung inflammation, wheezing, and shortness of breath. 

Due to the heat of the smoke, irritation occurs in the fragile respiratory tissue found in the airways and lungs. Regular smokers may suffer more than irregular smokers, whereas sporadic smoking is unlikely to cause long-term damage. However, when sick, smoke can worsen respiratory symptoms.

Do Edibles Help With Coughing?

If you consume edibles when you have an underlying cough, it won’t necessarily ease your coughing.

“I haven’t seen any evidence that supports the idea that cannabis edibles can alleviate cough symptoms. However, it is worth noting that consuming edibles may be a better option for individuals who wish to avoid irritating their cough by inhaling smoke,” said Dr. Kessler.

Do edibles help with coughing? The frequency of coughing may be reduced if you choose edibles over smoking. And since cannabinoids impact the nervous system and play an essential role in immune system regulation on a cellular level, cannabis-infused edibles could kickstart health if you’re feeling under the weather.⁸ An alternative method of ingesting cannabis is by drinking an herbally-infused tea, which may soothe a cough and provide temporary comfort from coughs and colds.

Do Edibles Make You Cough? Why Do I Cough After Eating Edibles?

Unlike cannabis smoke, edibles carry no respiratory risk. Because of this, they present a distinct advantage for patients who want to avoid a coughing fit to get their cannabinoid fix. Studies demonstrate a link between smoking and various respiratory conditions, so it makes sense that long-term cannabis smoking (blended with tobacco) may result in coughing, shortness of breath, and other respiratory issues.

The findings of a 2020 study highlighted how cannabis smoke contains 110 potentially toxic compounds. It's not the cannabis itself that causes toxicity but also the combustible matter. a 2013 review found that cannabis smokers experience tiny injuries in their large airways (bronchi), thus increasing the risk of developing chronic bronchitis.⁹ Edibles are non-combustible, so they won’t cause you to cough.¹⁰

“Edibles are unlikely to induce a cough. If a cough does occur, drinking water can help clear the throat,” said Dr. Kessler.

What Type of Edible Is Suitable If I’m Sick? Are There Edibles to Help With a Cold or the Flu?

Choosing from the vast array of decongestants and sinus relief tablets can cause a headache in itself. Fortunately, when it comes to choosing from the many different types of edibles on the market, the choice is yours. Aside from the potency, flavor, and strain differences, most cannabis edibles all work in the same way, so it’s really a case of preferences. Some nano-infused products may have a quicker onset, which may be a good option for some users.

“There aren’t any edibles marketed as being better for you while sick. Instead, avoid edibles with large amounts of sugar that may increase inflammation and slow the healing process. Opting for an infused drink may be best if you have a cold or flu,” says Dr. Kessler.

Can Edibles Interact or Interfere With Cold Medicine?

There are numerous medications that may interact with cannabis and potentially interfere with their efficacy by influencing their metabolism.¹¹ Practicing caution before introducing cannabis into your routine alongside weed and cold medications is crucial to prevent unwanted side effects.

“Cannabinoids like CBD do have the potential to interact with medications that are commonly used when you have a cold or flu. These medications may become less effective or, when combined with THC, could have enhanced intoxicating effects,” Dr. Kessler notes. 

Here are a few interactions worth considering:

• Vitamin C and Cannabis - It's a well-known myth that vitamin C consumption may neutralize cannabis' intoxicating effects. However, the evidence is merely anecdotal, and researchers believe that the placebo effect may be responsible for the phantom metabolic impact that vitamin C has on cannabis absorption.
• Codeine and Cannabis - Receptors scattered around the brain and body are on the receiving end of substances like codeine and cannabis. Considering the overdose risks of opioids, dependence, and sometimes fatal side effects, codeine should not be mixed with cannabis. Doing so may dangerously amplify the effects.
• Benadryl and Cannabis - Confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment and motor coordination may arise when combining Benadryl and cannabis. The effects of both medications may be more pronounced.

What Should I Stay Away From While Sick?

Drinking alcohol is a no-go when sick, especially if you are taking medication. Alcohol can interfere with antibiotics and cause some nasty side effects. There have even been cases of damage to the stomach and liver among people who dismiss this advice, so take heed. Although it's important to drink liquids when sick, make sure it's not another type of dehydrating beverage, such as coffee, green or black tea, soda, or energy drinks.

“Alcohol, fatty foods, excess sugars, and processed foods may all impact the healing process when sick," notes Dr. Kessler. "It is best to avoid these types of products. And consumers can avoid further irritation to the lungs by using edibles instead of smoking, dabbing, or using a vape pen."

If you consume edibles responsibly, you can potentially alleviate the symptoms of lethargy (with a CBD-rich strain), induce a good night's sleep (with a THC-rich strain), and ease pain (with a mix of both).

References

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2. Mabou Tagne A, Pacchetti B, Sodergren M, Cosentino M, Marino F. Cannabidiol for Viral Diseases: Hype or Hope? Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. 2020;5(2). doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2019.0060 ↩︎
3. Maggirwar SB, Khalsa JH. The Link between Cannabis Use, Immune System, and Viral Infections. Viruses. 2021;13(6):1099. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/v13061099 ↩︎
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6. Mahmud MS, Hossain MS, Ahmed ATMF, Islam MZ, Sarker ME, Islam MR. Antimicrobial and Antiviral (SARS-CoV-2) Potential of Cannabinoids and Cannabis sativa: A Comprehensive Review. Molecules. 2021;26(23):7216. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26237216 ↩︎
7. Russo EB, Spooner C, May L, Leslie R, Whiteley VL. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Survey and Genomic Investigation. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. 2021;7(3). doi.org/10.1089/can.2021.0046 ↩︎
8. Almogi-Hazan O, Or R. Cannabis, the Endocannabinoid System and Immunity—the Journey from the Bedside to the Bench and Back. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020;21(12):4448. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21124448 ↩︎
9. Tashkin DP. Effects of Marijuana Smoking on the Lung. Annals of the American Thoracic Society. 2013;10(3):239-247. doi:https://doi.org/10.1513/annalsats.201212-127fr ↩︎
10. Graves BM, Johnson TJ, Nishida RT, et al. Comprehensive characterization of mainstream marijuana and tobacco smoke. Scientific Reports. 2020;10(1):7160. doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-63120-6 ↩︎
11. Doohan PT, Oldfield LD, Arnold JC, Anderson LL. Cannabinoid Interactions with Cytochrome P450 Drug Metabolism: a Full-Spectrum Characterization. The AAPS journal. 2021;23(4):91. doi:https://doi.org/10.1208/s12248-021-00616-7 ↩︎

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.