Will CBD replace antibiotics?

During the treatment of both serious and minor ailments, antibiotics are increasingly being used. However, these are slowly becoming less effective as bacteria adapt to their use. As a result, more and more studies are emerging to examine whether CBD can be used to support antibiotic treatment.

Is CBD a breakthrough in infection treatment?

Antibiotic resistance is a growing problem as dangerous bacteria and viruses continually mutate and evolve. Persistent infections and the use of antibiotics accelerate the development of resistant strains. Therefore, finding an alternative has become necessary, and CBD may be a solution, at least partially replacing antibiotics. Often, preparations with cannabidiol are used to support standard treatment of bacterial and viral infections. CBD for flu or cold proves effective in alleviating symptoms such as sore throat. However, all this should be discussed with a doctor, as we do not know if the components of the oil will interact with prescribed drugs. CBD for a cold will only be effective as a supplement, not as a primary remedy, it should be used as an addition that can support the body in fighting the disease. But it's worth consulting a doctor here. CBD will be most effective as support in boosting our immunity before illness, so the body is adequately strengthened before getting sick.

CBD and its effect on other drugs

The action of CBD can affect the inhibition of other drug effects. It is an inhibitor of liver enzyme classes such as cytochromes P450. The result is an increase in the concentration of drugs in the blood, as they are not metabolized, which adversely affects the body. CBD oil and painkillers may therefore have an unfavorable relationship, as the accumulation of excess substances affecting pain can be toxic. CBD can affect the metabolism of drugs related to, among others CYP2C19 such as:

• Antiepileptic drugs (e.g. bupropion, phenobarbital, benzodiazepines),
• Proton pump inhibitors, i.e. drugs for gastroesophageal reflux, ulcers and heartburn,
• Beta-blockers (e.g. propanol),
• Antidepressants (e.g. amitriptyline, clomipramine, bupropion, citalopram, imipramine, moclobemide),
• Antiplatelet drugs (e.g. clopidogrel),
• Others (antiviral drugs, warfarin, gliclazide, or indomethacin).

CBD is often used as a supplement for people struggling with stress, depression, or anxiety. However, in the case of more serious diseases, appropriate drugs are mainly used, and CBD is only an additional action. Its calming effect and improving sleep quality can positively affect our well-being. However, remember that CBD and psychotropic drugs are not the same. They can even mutually inhibit their action. What's more, drugs prescribed by a doctor should be the basis of therapy, and any additional supplements are used after consultation. This rule especially applies to CBD, which can inhibit the action of cytochrome P450 in such a way that it is metabolized first. This causes other drugs to not be broken down at that time, which weakens their action. We do not know the exact dose of CBD that affects the action of P450 so a doctor's opinion is always necessary.

CBD and antibiotics

Due to the growing popularity of cannabidiol, questions about "whether CBD can be combined with an antibiotic" appear on many forums. It is associated with its beneficial effect on immunity. CBD cannot replace antibiotics. At the moment, the use of CBD as an additional therapy planned by a doctor remains. Under no circumstances can we discontinue previously prescribed drugs to try cannabidiol. An option is also the topical application of CBD in the form of creams, ointments, or balms. This will be safer than oils, vaporizing agents, or food products that enter the bloodstream.