CBD has started to garner the attention it deserves even for migraines with cannabis research and commercialization laws loosening up.
As one of the main compounds found in the cannabis Sativa plant, CBD is touted to have a vast range of medicinal properties. From fighting inflammation to curbing anxiety, CBD is at the epicenter of a growing body of scientific research. But, does it improve migraines? Are there any downsides and risks?
What Is Cannabidiol?
CBD is one of more than a hundred cannabinoids present in cannabis. However, it would be best if you didn’t confuse it with THC. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is also a cannabinoid, but it is psychotropic, i.e., causes a high. Depending upon the extraction means and source, CBD contains trace amounts of THC.
Because migraine headaches are such a widespread problem, researchers have tried to explore whether CBD can be used as a viable treatment to curb the frequency and intensity of migraines. Migraines have no reliable medication, and most prescription drugs either have a low rate of success or have adverse side effects.
Physicians consider the primary source of most migraine headaches the inflammation that results from excessive stimulation of sensory nerves in the brain as CBD is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, hence the link between the compound and this condition.
Therapeutic Qualities Of CBD That May Help with Migraines
- Potent analgesic properties
- Antiemetic (preventing nausea and vomiting)
- Powerful anti-inflammatory effects
Many studies have suggested that CBD possesses potent pain management properties. This research has especially started to stack up after the statewide legalization of cannabis.
In 2018, the FDA made a momentous announcement, permitting the first CBD-based prescription drug — Epidiolex— for the treatment of two severe epileptic disorders — Dravet and Lennox Gastaut Syndrome.
Research On CBD and Migraines
According to Frontiers in Pharmacy, a journal dedicated to cannabis research, there is not enough concrete evidence to suggest CBD is beneficial for migraine headaches. This is despite the positive sentiment regarding CBD in public forms and medical communities.
Existing research is preclinical and conducted on animal models. One 2016 study published in Pharmacotherapy demonstrated how CBD reduced the frequency of migraines with only a year of use in medical marijuana users. Another 2017 study that surfaced in the Congress of the European Academy of Neurology found CBD to have a significant positive impact on the pain associated with severe migraines.
Additionally, a 2017 critical review of available cannabis treatments analyzed the authenticity of existing surveys, reports, and cannabis research. It concluded that the cannabinoid is a safe and effective therapy for headache disorders, including migraines. A similar review published in 2018 provided experimental verification for the medicinal value of cannabinoids in treating migraines and chronic pain.
CBD Safety and Risks
The World Health Organization (WHO) published a critical review, citing CBD to have an excellent safety profile. It also added that CBD doesn’t show any substance potential whatsoever, meaning it is non-addictive.
Many studies have shown CBD to be a safe and effective treatment for Multiple Sclerosis, arthritis, and diabetes, among others, without little to no side effects.
Participants Of the CBD-based oral solution medication — Epidiolex— reported to have some concerning side effects, such as liver damage, at unrealistically high doses. But, these side effects subside when the dose normalize.
Although, the case is different for a combination of THC and CBD. In a study, when a 1:1 of CBD and THC was administered to patients, they experienced elevated heart rate, delirium, and hallucinations. On the other hand, subjects that took CBD void of THC didn’t report any side effects.
Should You Use CBD for Migraines
If you’re considering using CBD for migraines, there are some things you should keep in mind. First, it’s important to understand that the Cannabis industry is largely unregulated.
Most of the market products are sub-standard and may contain dangerous levels of contaminants, including pesticides and heavy metals.
Moreover, in most of these, the THC levels are not as advertised. State laws allow .3% of THC in a product, but according to one study, many CBD vendors constantly violate these thresholds.
Second, you should ensure that CBD is, in fact, legal in your state. There are still some states in the United States where CBD is illegal due it its close association with marijuana. And the FDA still categorizes CBD as a health supplement, not a prescription drug — with one exception: Epidiolex.
Even if CBD is illegal in your state, this shouldn’t mean you should stop your pursuit of an effective and safe treatment for those paralyzing migraine headaches. There are many other options you can explore with your doctor and see which one works for you best.
CBD and Drug Interactions
Certainly, incorporating a new regimen for migraines can be risky. CBD can interact with various medications, according to research. This is because of its effect on the Cytochrome CYP450 — the enzyme system responsible for processing 60% of pharmaceutical drugs available today.
You should especially look out for drugs that come with a grapefruit warning. CBD is thought to exhibit the same interaction as this substance. It’s best to consult your doctor before using. There is also a risk of possible allergies to marijuana and its constituent compounds.
From a legal viewpoint, there is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding CBD use. Marijuana doesn’t have the green light at the Federal level. However, the Farm Bill of 2018 has allowed for CBD production and distribution in states — under certain guidelines and regulations. CBD products sourced from hemp and that contain less than .3% of THC have federal approval. Just talk to a competent legal professional to avoid any potential complications.
The Takeaway
Bottom line: CBD is more than just high-inducing marijuana. It has a lot of medicinal value and may be used for migraines in the future. There is years of research to back this claim. But, more clinical evidence is the need of the hours.
Unless CBD’s role in preventing migraines is studied in human subjects, there’s little possibility the compound will make any headway. That said, if you’re interested in using CBD for migraine headaches, there are certified cannabis practitioners that can help you and nudge you in the right direction.
