CBD for Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is more common than many realize, affecting millions of people every year. According to the CDC, there were approximately 69,473 TBI-related deaths in 2021, with adults aged 75 and over being the most affected. These injuries can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from headaches and memory loss to severe cognitive and emotional difficulties.

As interest in natural and alternative therapies grows, many are turning to cannabidiol (CBD), but does using CBD for concussions and other forms of TBI really help?

What is Traumatic Brain Injury?

TBI occurs when a sudden force damages the brain, like a blow or jolt. TBIs are classified as either penetrating, where an object enters the brain, or non-penetrating, caused by blunt force.

Symptoms can range widely. Mild cases often result in temporary headaches, dizziness, and confusion, commonly known as concussions. More severe TBIs can have lasting impacts, including extended periods of unconsciousness, serious cognitive challenges, and even long-term disability or death. Symptoms can develop or change over hours or days.

Common causes of TBI include falls, car accidents, and sports injuries, with older adults and young children being most at risk. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury, ranging from rest and monitoring for mild cases to emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation for more severe injuries.

CBD has shown promise as a potential alternative treatment in TBI recovery. Its neuroprotective properties may help manage pain and inflammation. However, the effectiveness of CBD in treating TBI has yet to be definitively proven.

Benefits of Using CBD for Traumatic Brain Injury

Research into CBD's effects on TBI is still in its early stages, but the findings so far are worth exploring further. CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in neurological health, shows potential in several areas that could support TBI recovery.

Neuroprotection

One of the most exciting possibilities is CBD's neuroprotective properties. Studies suggest that CBD may help protect brain cells from the damage caused by TBI. This protection is mainly due to CBD’s ability to regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, helping maintain balance and prevent overactivity. This mechanism may improve cognitive function and reduce pain symptoms after an injury.¹

Neurogenesis

Another potential benefit of CBD is its ability to promote neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons in the brain. After a concussion or more severe brain injury, CBD may improve recovery and brain function over time by speeding up healing through these new, healthy neurons.¹

Anti-Inflammatory

CBD is also known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which may promote a speedy recovery from a TBI. After the injury, inflammation can cause additional damage to the brain. CBD's ability to reduce this inflammation could help minimize secondary injuries, such as those caused by oxidative stress and pain triggered by inflammation that often follows a TBI.¹

Serotonin Impact

CBD also interacts with specific serotonin receptors, which may help reduce some of the common symptoms of TBI, like anxiety, headaches, and pain. This makes CBD a potentially valuable supplement to traditional TBI treatments, though it’s not yet considered a replacement.¹

Patient Reports

In addition to these scientific findings, many people recovering from TBI have reported that CBD helps with managing pain, anxiety, and overall well-being. While these anecdotal reports are encouraging, more research is needed to understand CBD’s role in TBI treatment fully.

CBD and Traumatic Brain Injury: Are There Any Risks?

CBD shows potential in treating concussions and more severe TBI, but it’s important to be aware of the possible risks, especially when considering its use alongside other treatments.

Side Effects

One concern is the potential for side effects. Research, particularly in studies involving children with epilepsy, has shown that high doses of CBD (10-30 mg/kg/day) can cause side effects like drowsiness, sedation, and even liver issues.

However, it’s not entirely clear if these effects are due to CBD alone or its interaction with other medications.¹ This uncertainty means that while CBD is generally safe, taking higher doses over a long period might carry some risks. It’s best to proceed cautiously, especially incorporating CBD into your daily routine.

Drug Interactions

Another critical factor to consider is drug interactions. CBD may interact with certain medications commonly prescribed for TBI, such as blood thinners or anticonvulsants. These interactions might change how these medications work or increase the chances of side effects. 

For example, CBD may affect how the liver processes certain drugs, potentially leading to higher levels of those drugs in the system, which could cause problems.¹

Given these potential risks, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before adding CBD to a TBI treatment plan, especially if already taking other medications. A doctor can help patients understand the risks and monitor possible side effects.

CBD as a Treatment for Traumatic Brain Injury

While CBD has potential benefits in treating TBI, it’s not yet a replacement for traditional treatments. Most of the research, performed mainly on animal models, suggests that CBD could be helpful due to its neuroprotective properties. However, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

One critical way CBD may help is by supporting brain healing. It promotes neurogenesis, protects brain cells from damage, and reduces inflammation, which helps with TBI recovery. However, since much of the current research is based on animal studies, it’s too early to rely on CBD alone for TBI treatment.¹

That said, CBD might work well alongside existing treatments. It could help manage symptoms like pain, inflammation, and anxiety, enhancing the effectiveness of other therapies. Ongoing clinical trials hope to understand this better, including a double-blind, placebo-controlled study expected to be completed by late 2025. The trial will look at how broad- and full-spectrum CBD might improve cognition and other TBI-related symptoms.

In short, while CBD could be a valuable addition to TBI treatment, it’s best used as part of a broader approach rather than a standalone solution. As more research comes in, we’ll have a clearer picture of how CBD can fit into TBI care.

Tips for Using CBD for Traumatic Brain Injury

Using CBD for concussions and TBI requires careful consideration to ensure safety and effectiveness. Here are some guidelines to help optimize results while minimizing risks:

Start Low and Go Slow

It’s best to start with a small dose, around 2.5 to 5mg, and gradually increase it (2.5 to 5mg at a time). This cautious approach helps find the correct dose while minimizing the risk of side effects.

²If using inhalation methods, one inhalation is a good starting point, with the option to take more every 15 minutes until the desired effect is achieved. While CBD is generally safe, it’s recommended to keep the daily dose below 1,500 mg to avoid potential adverse effects.

Talk to a Doctor

Before adding CBD to any TBI treatment plan, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended. They can offer guidance on how to safely integrate CBD with other medications and monitor for any interactions or side effects.

Be Mindful of Risks

Although CBD is well-tolerated by most people, higher doses or long-term use can sometimes lead to issues like drowsiness or appetite changes. Additionally, CBD can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or anticonvulsants, which may require adjustments in treatment.

Choose High-Quality Products

Not all CBD products are created equal. Choose products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Check for a certificate of analysis (COA) to confirm that the product is free from contaminants and contains the amount of CBD listed on the label.

Experiment with Different Products

CBD can be found in various products, including gummies, baked goods, oils, drinks, and more. Experimenting with different types can help users find the one that best fits their needs and preferences. A healthcare provider or experienced budtender can provide a helpful starting point in the search for the proper CBD treatment.

Ask a Budtender: Which CBD Products are Best For Traumatic Brain Injury?

When choosing CBD products to promote brain healing after a TBI, certain types and qualities stand out based on patient reports. 

Products like CBD tinctures and edibles are often preferred by those who want a controlled and consistent dosage without the need to smoke or vape. Tinctures offer flexibility in dosing, while edibles provide a longer-lasting effect, which may be helpful for sustained symptom relief. 

For those seeking quicker onset, inhalation methods like vaping with extracts, cartridges, or disposable vapes may be more suitable, though the effects are generally shorter-lived.

When choosing CBD for TBI, look for items that have been third-party tested. A COA can confirm that the product is pure and effective.

Since the best dosing for TBI has yet to be established, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed is likely ideal. This method allows for adjusting the dose to manage symptoms effectively without overconsumption.

References

1. Aychman MM, Goldman DL, Kaplan JS. Cannabidiol's neuroprotective properties and potential treatment of traumatic brain injuries. Front Neurol. 2023;14:1087011. Published 2023 Feb 2. doi:10.3389/fneur.2023.1087011
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2. 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
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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.