Tylenol (acetaminophen) is one of the most widely used over-the-counter pain relievers. It's used for mild to moderate pain, including headaches, muscle aches, and fevers.
Cannabis is also used by many to manage discomfort, leading some to wonder whether it’s safe to use both at the same time. As access to cannabis grows, so does curiosity about how it may interact with common medications like Tylenol.
While both substances are available without a prescription, combining them isn’t always straightforward. This article explores what’s currently known about their interaction. We'll explore what to consider before using them together.
What Is Tylenol?
Tylenol is a brand-name medication containing acetaminophen as its active ingredient. Acetaminophen is classified as a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer (antipyretic), and these are the two primary reasons people turn to Tylenol for relief.
Acetaminophen can also be found labeled as:
- Panadol
- Actamin
- Feveral
- Temra Quicklets
Other common cold medications, like DayQuil and NyQuil, also contain acetaminophen in concentrated amounts.
The most common uses of medication like Tylenol include treating muscle aches, headaches, backaches, mild arthritis, menstrual cramps, toothaches, colds, and sore throats.
Acetaminophen’s ability to treat various ailments makes it a common medication that is prescribed and kept on hand by many adults. The Consumer Healthcare Products Association reports that roughly 23% of U.S. adults use medication with the active ingredient acetaminophen every week.
Products containing acetaminophen are over-the-counter medications, making them easily obtainable by consumers, even if a physician didn’t prescribe them. Although generally regarded as safe, some side effects may occur when taking acetaminophen, including:
- Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat)
- Trouble breathing
- Skin reddening, blisters, or rash
- Severe dizziness
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
These types of medications are processed through the liver. In small doses, they don’t cause significant damage to the organ, but they can in high doses. Patients should speak with a doctor if they plan to take Tylenol or acetaminophen products if they:
- Have liver disease
- Are breastfeeding
- Are taking other medications with acetaminophen as an active ingredient
Combining Tylenol and Cannabis: What the Latest Research Says
Tylenol and cannabis are both used to manage mild to moderate pain. Some might use them together, but research into how these substances interact is still limited and sometimes conflicting.
Early studies suggest a few important considerations:
Acetaminophen may influence the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is also where cannabis has its effect.1
In animal studies, combining acetaminophen with other medications showed increased pain relief linked to ECS activity. However, it's unclear how this translates to humans.2
A 2021 review on CBD and drug interactions raised concerns about how cannabis and acetaminophen might affect the liver when used together. Findings were mixed.3
The liver processes both substances and may affect similar biological systems. As a result, experts advise caution. This goes especially for people with liver conditions, those taking other medications, or anyone pregnant or breastfeeding.
Most available evidence suggests that some can tolerate Tylenol and cannabis together without major issues. This doesn’t mean the combination is risk-free. If you're considering using Tylenol and cannabis at the same time, speak with a healthcare professional.
Tylenol is commonly used for headaches and general aches, but it may not be strong enough for chronic or severe pain. Overuse also carries a known risk of liver damage.
Cannabis may provide relief from pain, nausea, and migraine symptoms for some people. One study found that it reduced headache and migraine intensity by about 50%, though its effectiveness appeared to decrease with long-term use. Cannabis may also affect focus and daily functioning, especially in higher doses.
Ultimately, the best option depends on your symptoms, goals, and medical history. A healthcare provider can help guide you toward a safer and more effective pain relief plan.
Are You Considering Using Cannabis and Tylenol?
Combining cannabis with any substance or medication carries its own risks. Cannabis research is still in its earliest stages, and there is a lot that researchers still don't know. That leaves the door open for unexpected interactions with other substances. If you are considering combining cannabis with any other substance or medication, speak to your doctor for proper medical guidance.
Likewise, stopping the use of a prescribed medication can lead to unintended consequences. Many medications take time to build up in the body. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant and potentially serious or even fatal side effects. If you'd like to stop using or replace a medication, you need to follow the guidance of your medical provider to make any approved adjustments safely.
References
- Klinger-Gratz PP, Ralvenius WT, Neumann E, et al. Acetaminophen Relieves Inflammatory Pain through CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors in the Rostral Ventromedial Medulla. J Neurosci. 2018;38(2):322-334. doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1945-17.2017 ↩︎
- Hama AT, Sagen J. Cannabinoid receptor-mediated antinociception with acetaminophen drug combinations in rats with neuropathic spinal cord injury pain. Neuropharmacology. 2010;58(4-5):758-766. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2009.12.010 ↩︎
- Balachandran P, Elsohly M, Hill KP. Cannabidiol Interactions with Medications, Illicit Substances, and Alcohol: a Comprehensive Review. J Gen Intern Med. 2021;36(7):2074-2084. doi:10.1007/s11606-020-06504-8.
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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.
