Key Takeaways
- Sudafed is a common cold medicine that works by relaxing the blood vessels to relieve symptoms.
- There hasn’t been much research on Sudafed and weed, though a serious reaction appears unlikely.
- Cannabis may help with some cold symptoms but isn’t a great replacement for Sudafed.
Sudafed is a brand name for certain nasal decongestant drugs. Many people take it while they’re experiencing a cold or the flu. Most adults average 2-4 colds yearly, making it a prevalent condition.
If you’re currently experiencing a cold or the flu, you may wonder if you can safely take Sudafed and weed together. Are there any risks to using this combination? There are a few factors to consider when mixing these two medicines.
What is Sudafed?
While Sudafed is a brand name, it is also a drug that goes by the generic name pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in certain products from the Sudafed brand, like Sudafed Congestion. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is also found in Contac Cold, Drixoral Decongestant Non-Drowsy, and more. Pseudoephedrine shrinks enlarged blood vessels through the nasal passages, working to target blood vessels impacted by the common cold or flu. By soothing these blood vessels, individuals can get relief from their symptoms.1
Individuals often take Sudafed when they’re experiencing congestion in their noses or ears.
Possible side effects of Sudafed containing pseudoephedrine include:
- Headache
- Heightened blood pressure
- Heart palpitations
- Anxiety
If you’re concerned about the symptoms you’re experiencing after taking Sudafed, contact your doctor or a medical professional as soon as possible.
While Sudafed may be a common medication to take, it should be consumed mindfully. Be aware of other medicines that you’re taking and the effects that they can have on the body.
Sudafed and Weed: What are the Risks?
If you’re considering combining cold medicine like Sudafed and weed, then you should be aware of the potential complications and risks that can exist.
There is not enough research to say for certain what the effects of this combination may be. Although no major issues have been reported and there are likely no significant negative effects, that doesn’t mean that this medication combination is safe.
Some people may experience effects such as an increased heart rate when taking cannabis and Sudafed.
It is important to remember that Sudafed is both a brand name and the name for the generic drug pseudoephedrine. For example, Sudafed PE Nighttime Cold contains a blend of three drugs, one of which is diphenhydramine, which may also cause adverse side effects when combined with cannabis, including dizziness and confusion. However, this particular Sudafed medication does not contain pseudoephedrine.
Cannabis is known to make an individual’s heart rate increase. The same effect can be felt when taking Sudafed. This may not be the right combination if you have a pre-existing heart condition. Anyone with a heart or health concern should speak with their doctor before combining Sudafed and cannabis.
It’s essential to consider the dosage of both substances you consume. You may not experience any adverse effects if you take low amounts of both. However, if you take large amounts of both Sudafed and cannabis, you’re more likely to have unpleasant or potentially harmful symptoms.
If you’re combining these two substances and you notice that you’re experiencing concerning effects, don’t hesitate to get medical support.
Sudafed and Weed: Are There Any Benefits?
There hasn’t yet been enough research examining the effects of combining Sudafed and THC. However, one study found that cannabis users had a lower amount of sinonasal symptoms. This is possibly due to the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis, but it’s not possible to make any definitive claims without more research.2
Individuals who are experiencing a head cold may deal with a headache, which is a symptom that cannabis may help alleviate. When it comes to using cannabis to treat pain related to headaches and colds, anecdotal reports note a variety of different dosages are effective for individuals.3 Consider starting with a lower dose and then increasing your dose in the future if needed.
Tips for Using Pseudoephedrine and Weed Safely
If you’re going to be combining Sudafed and cannabis, there are a few different things you can do to make the experience as safe as possible.
One of the most important things is to consider your dosage. If you’re in doubt about the proper dosage, it’s always a good idea to start with a lower dosage and then work your way up if needed. Taking a higher dosage than appropriate could result in adverse effects, so it’s best to remain conservative when deciding what amount to consume.4
It’s always recommended that you speak with a medical professional before combining cannabis with another substance.
This may not be the right combination if you have a pre-existing condition. Especially if you’ve had heart problems in the past, this combination could result in adverse effects.
What about Sudafed and CBD?
If you don’t want to use THC, you may be wondering if it’s safe to combine Sudafed and CBD. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been much research to understand this combination.
The combination of Sudafed and CBD may have fewer adverse side effects than those that THC can provide since it is non-intoxicating. However, it’s not possible to make any definitive claims.
Another adverse effect for consumers to consider is that it’s possible to be allergic to CBD. Many of the symptoms that can arise from a CBD allergy are similar to the symptoms an individual would take Sudafed for.
If you combine CBD and Sudafed and notice your symptoms are worsening, speak with a doctor.
Can Weed Replace Sudafed?
Cannabis may not be the typical option for cold relief, but that doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be considered.
Cannabis may be a powerful option for fighting inflammation, which is often one of the most significant factors that can cause a cold.2 Because of this, some individuals choose to use cannabis to help relieve some of their cold and flu symptoms.
It’s also possible that cannabis may help with any potential pain that is experienced along with a cold, but this would likely depend on the individual’s symptoms, dosage, and other medications taken. Seek medical attention if you’re experiencing severe head or throat pain due to a cold or flu.
While cannabis may help with some cold or flu symptoms, it’s likely not going to have a strong enough effect for it to replace Sudafed completely.5 Speak with your doctor about alternative medications that can provide congestion relief.
If you have a pre-existing condition, be very cautious when combining cannabis and Sudafed—especially for individuals with heart difficulties, as this combination has the potential to raise someone’s heart rate.4
There isn’t yet enough research to fully understand the effects of combining Sudafed and cannabis. If you’re unsure if this is the right combination, consider speaking with a healthcare professional.
References
- Głowacka K, Wiela-Hojeńska A. Pseudoephedrine-Benefits and Risks. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(10):5146. Published 2021 May 13. doi:10.3390/ijms22105146 ↩︎
- Reyes Orozco F, Lin M, Hur K. Cannabis Use and Sinonasal Symptoms in US Adults. JAMA otolaryngology-- head & neck surgery. 2022;148(9):854-854. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoto.2022.2001 ↩︎
- Cuttler C, Spradlin A, Cleveland MJ, Craft RM. Short- and Long-Term Effects of Cannabis on Headache and Migraine. The Journal of Pain. 2019;21(5-6). doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpain.2019.11.001 ↩︎
- MacCallum CA, Lo LA, Boivin M. “Is medical cannabis safe for my patients?” A practical review of cannabis safety considerations. European journal of internal medicine. 2021;89:10-18. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejim.2021.05.002 ↩︎
- 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 ↩︎
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.
