In recent years, the soaring popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) has transformed it from an obscure compound into a household name. Found in various forms, from oils to gummies and creams, CBD has become synonymous with wellness and touted for its perceived therapeutic benefits, like its potential to help with stress, anxiety, and sleep.1
One of the primary reasons for CBD's widespread embrace is its generally acclaimed safety profile. Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn't induce the intoxicating effects or "high," making it an attractive option for those seeking relief without the mind-altering effects.2
However, the integration of CBD into daily life isn't without its complexities. Amidst the enthusiasm for its potential benefits, a lesser-known aspect emerges—the unintentional combination of CBD with another popular substance: alcohol.
As CBD finds its way onto store shelves in various forms and alcoholic beverages remain a prevalent choice for relaxation, the possibility of their combined use raises an important question: Is mixing CBD and alcohol safe?
Can You Mix CBD and Alcohol?
The interplay between CBD and alcohol has garnered significant attention, stirring questions about their compatibility and potential effects when combined. At this point in time, research indicates that mixing CBD and alcohol might not produce effects akin to the potent interactions observed with THC.
Unlike THC, CBD doesn't induce intoxication or a "high." However, this doesn't imply that mixing CBD and alcohol is devoid of any potential effects. When CBD and alcohol are consumed together, they may interact in ways that can affect the body, although the outcomes can vary among individuals.
Combining CBD with alcohol can potentially amplify the effects of sedation and drowsiness. Both substances have properties that slow down brain activity. This increased sedation could potentially result in impaired motor function and coordination, potentially raising the risk of accidents or injuries.
Still, the extent of these effects can vary based on numerous factors, including individual tolerance levels, dosage, the specific products consumed, and the method of ingestion.
Mixing CBD and alcohol may not mirror the intense, intoxicating outcomes associated with THC and alcohol. Still, the potential for increased sedation and drowsiness means consumers should be careful when combining these substances. Research into the precise interactions between CBD and alcohol is still ongoing. Further studies are necessary to understand their combined use's nuances and potential risks comprehensively.
So, can you mix CBD and alcohol? The research thus far has not indicated that there are severe risks that would warrant avoiding CBD and alcohol entirely. But, as is the case with all cannabis consumption (especially when combined with other substances), patients should always be mindful of the potential risks that come with consuming cannabis products.
What Happens When You Mix CBD and Alcohol?
While research into the effects of CBD and alcohol is still in its infancy, limited studies have begun to shed light on the possible outcomes of combining these substances.
One study suggests that CBD, acting as an agonist of the 5-HT1A receptors (brain receptors involved with mood and anxiety), may have the potential to actually reduce and weaken the effects of alcohol consumption while also providing some protection from some of the detrimental impacts of alcohol, such as liver and brain damage.
However, this same study claimed that the timing and dosage of CBD play a significant role in these potentially beneficial effects. For instance, when CBD was administered before alcohol intake, it demonstrated protective effects against hepatic injury and oxidative stress.3
When CBD and alcohol are consumed simultaneously, there might be an increased risk of experiencing intensified sedative effects, leading to heightened drowsiness. While it may not necessarily feel as intense as the phenomenon of "crossfading" (the simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis resulting in a combined effect), the intake of CBD and alcohol could heighten sedation and impair motor and psychomotor performances.
Consumers should also be conscientious of the potential risks of combining CBD and alcohol with other medications, particularly those that also impact brain activity or liver function. Mixing CBD and alcohol with certain medications used for anxiety, stress, or sleep disorders could further exacerbate sedation and drowsiness (on top of the increased effect posed by CBD and alcohol in itself), posing an increased risk of accidents or injuries.
Can I Take CBD Oil and Alcohol?
CBD oil, extracted from the cannabis plant, is celebrated for its potential therapeutic effects. It is available in various products and formulations, including full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate. Unfortunately, limited research is focused on the effects of mixing alcohol and CBD oil specifically.
Still, the effects of CBD oil combined with alcohol may differ from other CBD consumption methods. One study from 2020 highlighted the differences in subjective experiences based on how CBD is administered. For example, vaporized CBD tends to exhibit quicker effects and potentially more potent subjective drug effects compared to oral consumption.
The differences observed in this study might be attributed to bioavailability variations (how much gets absorbed after being consumed), with inhaled CBD potentially having higher bioavailability than oral ingestion. This difference in bioavailability may influence how alcohol interacts with CBD oil, which is a form of oral ingestion.4
Also, the differences between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolates may play a role. Full-spectrum CBD contains various compounds from the cannabis plant, including THC, albeit in trace amounts, potentially influencing the overall effects when combined with alcohol. On the other hand, broad-spectrum CBD contains multiple cannabinoids but lacks THC, while CBD isolate comprises pure CBD with no other cannabis compounds.5 These differences could impact the way CBD interacts with alcohol and its resulting effects.
How long after taking CBD oil can I drink alcohol?
The answer is unfortunately unclear. There is no scientific consensus regarding this question. If you're worried about the potential risks or side effects, it may be best to err on the side of caution and wait until the effects of CBD wear off (approximately 4 - 6 hours) before consuming alcohol.
What About CBD Gummies and Alcohol?
CBD gummies and edibles have gained popularity as a convenient and palatable way to consume cannabidiol. These products offer an alternative to traditional oil or vaping, presenting an easy and enjoyable method for individuals seeking the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD.
The effects of CBD edibles, including gummies, often differ from other methods of consumption due to variations in bioavailability. When CBD is ingested orally through edibles, a smaller percentage of the CBD consumed through edibles reaches the bloodstream, potentially resulting in delayed onset and milder effects compared to more rapidly absorbed forms like vaping.6
When considering the interaction between CBD gummies and alcohol, the effects may mirror the combined impact of CBD oil and alcohol, although with potentially delayed onset and a longer duration. Similar to other oral forms, CBD gummies might also contribute to intensified sedation and increased drowsiness when consumed alongside alcohol.
Remember that CBD gummies have extended and potentially strengthened effects that result from their slower absorption and longer-lasting presence in the system. The combined effects of CBD gummies and alcohol might persist for a more extended period compared to other forms of CBD consumption.
Are CBD-Infused Alcoholic Drinks Safe?
The emergence of CBD-infused alcoholic beverages, such as wines or beers, has piqued curiosity among consumers seeking novel ways to enjoy CBD and alcohol in a single drink. However, before jumping in, you should familiarize yourself with the regulatory landscape and safety considerations surrounding these products.
As of now, CBD-infused alcoholic drinks occupy a regulatory gray area. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emphasizes that CBD, as an ingredient in food and beverages, does not have regulatory approval, and the FDA continues to evaluate and gather information about these products. This lack of clear regulatory oversight means these products may not undergo the same rigorous testing and scrutiny as other consumable goods.
While some CBD-infused alcoholic beverages have entered the market, their safety and consistency remain a concern. The absence of stringent regulations implies there needs to be a standardized approach to ensuring dosage accuracy, quality control, or labeling accuracy in these products. As a result, the actual CBD content, the presence of contaminants, and other ingredients might not be accurately reflected on the labels.7
CBD-infused alcoholic drinks differ from merely taking CBD and drinking alcohol separately. The combination of CBD and alcohol within a single beverage might introduce unique interactions and effects that vary from consuming CBD oil or other forms of CBD and alcohol separately. These interactions could potentially amplify sedative effects, leading to increased drowsiness or impairments in motor functions.
Safety Tips When Taking CBD and Alcohol
There are several practical tips and considerations you should keep in mind to navigate the potential interactions between CBD and alcohol.
Start Low and Go Slow
You should always begin with low doses when combining CBD and alcohol. Starting with CBD doses between 2.5mg and 5mg allows individuals to assess their tolerance and observe how their bodies respond to the combination.8 Increasing the dosage over time, if needed, can help gauge the effects more accurately.
Know Your Limits
Understanding your personal tolerance levels is also key to ensuring a safe and healthy experience. Factors such as body weight, individual metabolism, and previous experiences with CBD and alcohol may significantly impact how these substances interact. Awareness of one's limits helps avoid potential overconsumption and its associated risks.
Avoid High Doses
Consuming excessive amounts of CBD or alcohol may intensify their effects and increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. Strive to stay within recommended dosage ranges and avoid excessive consumption of either substance.
Mind the Timing
Considering the potential interactions, it's best to space out the consumption of CBD and alcohol. This approach allows individuals to assess how each substance affects them separately before combining them. Avoid taking medications or substances that may slow brain activity, along with CBD and alcohol, to reduce the risk of intensified sedation and drowsiness.
Consider Medication Interactions
Be cautious when taking medications that interact with alcohol or affect brain activity. CBD itself can interact with certain medications, so it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before combining CBD with alcohol, especially if you're on prescribed medications. Medications for anxiety, sleep disorders, or other central nervous system depressants may have increased effects when combined with CBD and alcohol. Getting a medical cannabis card gives consumers access to qualified healthcare professionals who understand the potential interactions of various cannabinoids and medications.
Know When to Avoid Mixing
Certain situations warrant avoiding the combination of CBD and alcohol altogether. For instance, when operating heavy machinery, driving, or engaging in activities that demand full attention and coordination, it's best to refrain from combining CBD and alcohol due to their potential to impair motor skills and cognitive functions.
By being aware of these safety suggestions and taking into account personal reactions, one can effectively reduce possible hazards and guarantee a more measured and secure experience when consuming both CBD and alcohol.
References
- Moltke J, Hindocha C. Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. Journal of Cannabis Research. 2021;3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00061-5 ↩︎
- Britch SC, Babalonis S, Walsh SL. Cannabidiol: pharmacology and therapeutic targets. Psychopharmacology. 2020;238(1):9-28. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-020-05712-8 ↩︎
- Balachandran P, Elsohly M, Hill KP. Cannabidiol Interactions with Medications, Illicit Substances, and Alcohol: a Comprehensive Review. Journal of General Internal Medicine. 2021;36(7). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-020-06504-8 ↩︎
- Spindle TR, Cone EJ, Goffi E, et al. Pharmacodynamic effects of vaporized and oral cannabidiol (CBD) and vaporized CBD-dominant cannabis in infrequent cannabis users. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2020;211:107937. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107937 ↩︎
- Cather JC, Cather JC. Cannabidiol primer for healthcare professionals. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent). 2020;33(3):376-379. Published 2020 Jul 6. doi:10.1080/08998280.2020.1775437 ↩︎
- Chayasirisobhon S. Mechanisms of Action and Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis. Perm J. 2020;25:1-3. doi:10.7812/TPP/19.200 ↩︎
- Bonn-Miller MO, Loflin MJE, Thomas BF, Marcu JP, Hyke T, Vandrey R. Labeling Accuracy of Cannabidiol Extracts Sold Online. JAMA. 2017;318(17):1708-1709. doi:10.1001/jama.2017.11909 ↩︎
- MacCallum CA, Russo EB. Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. European Journal of Internal Medicine. 2018;49(49):12-19. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.004 ↩︎
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.
