Continuing with our most frequently asked questions theme – here’s a biggie.
Does Beta Caryophyllene (BCP) clash with other medications?
If you can imagine, two roads heading towards the same destination trying to reach the same location – they are just getting there via different paths. This can be said for most pharmaceutical medications and BCP. Two separate pathways trying to bring about the same outcome, they don’t cross over, or interact with each other, so both can be working effectively at the same time. This is because BCP works via the pathway of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and big pharma meds work through other pathways.
The precaution would be that if you are experiencing benefit from BCP (which is highly likely), the other meds may need to be reduced or stopped. A classic example is thyroid meds. A lovely lady once told us that her thyroid was feeling different after taking our BCP, so she went to see her GP, who was happy for the positive changes BCP had given her and just said that he needed to reduce her meds – she didn’t need as much any more!!!
If you are on blood thinners, you may want to check out this Blog from last year – click here.
All that being said – BCP doesn’t CLASH with other medications – here’s some additional advice from that Blog:
“Nonetheless, it is important to be cautious, as certain compounds found in plants, including BCP, can have potential interactions with medications. Interactions can vary depending on the specific medication, dosage, and individual factors. That’s why consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to assess any potential risks or interactions.
In summary, while there is no direct evidence of BCP interacting negatively with blood pressure medications [or other medications], it is important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine….”
So please hear me loud and clear – do not stop taking or reduce your prescribed meds unless you have verified with your GP or specialist first!!!
But on a positive note, I found a great study from 2020 that confirms that BCP may assist with reducing or eliminating other meds (link below):
“It [BCP] can also enhance the effects of other pain medications like morphine, making it a promising candidate to reduce effective drug dose and therefore potential drug dependence and tolerance. In this way, it modulates pain signalling pathways in a manner that may enhance, and not compete with, the benefits of other pain-or inflammation-relieving substances” I’m doing a little jig right now!!! This is awesome!!
The bottom line is, always monitor how you are feeling. Let your GP, Specialist and even your naturopath know if there are any changes in the way that you are feeling. There’s a good chance that you will need to adjust your dosage – woo-hoo.
I just need to say that I am NOT a medical professional, so please seek professional advice as needed.
Hope you have an exceptional week.
TERPENES: https://www.canna-oils.com.au/week-3-what-are-terpenes/
ECS: https://www.canna-oils.com.au/the-ecs-essential-mysterious/
BCP: https://www.canna-oils.com.au/week-2-so-what-is-bcp/
BLOOD PRESSURE BLOG: https://www.canna-oils.com.au/bcp-blood-pressure-meds-can-i-take-both/
INFLAMMATION: https://www.canna-oils.com.au/cytokine-expression/; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7692661/
STUDY :https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2020/8035301/Volume 2020 | Article ID 8035301 | https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/8035301
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for reference purposes only and not intended to constitute or replace professional medical advice or personal research. Please consult a qualified medical professional before making any changes to your diet, medications or lifestyle. Effects are provided as a guide only. Statements have not been evaluated by the TGA.