Can I take Cannabis and Clarithromycin together?

Por qué sucede esto

Your liver uses a specific enzyme (called CYP3A4) to break down cannabis. Clarithromycin 'switches off' this enzyme, which prevents your body from clearing the cannabis. This leads to a buildup of the drug in your system. Additionally, both substances can occasionally affect your heart rhythm.

It is best to avoid using cannabis while taking a course of clarithromycin. If you do choose to use both, start with a much lower dose of cannabis than usual and be aware that the effects will last longer. Seek medical help if you feel your heart racing or feel extremely dizzy.

Trastornos del ritmo cardíaco (Síndrome de QT largo)

Clarithromycin can cause serious heart rhythm problems. You must not take it if you have a history of 'Long QT syndrome' or are taking other medicines that affect heart rhythm.

Drug-drug interaction

Clarithromycin is a strong enzyme inhibitor that can significantly increase the levels of cannabis in your blood, increasing the risk of severe side effects like extreme drowsiness, paranoia, or rapid heart rate.

Psychosis or Schizophrenia

You must not use cannabis if you have a personal or strong family history of schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders, as it can trigger or worsen these conditions.

Driving and operating machinery

It is an offence to drive if your ability is impaired by cannabis. Even if you do not feel 'high', the drug stays in your system and can result in a drug-driving conviction.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while using cannabis can significantly increase the sedative effects, leading to extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It may also increase the levels of THC in your blood, making the 'high' more intense or unpredictable.

Fatty meals

If you are taking cannabis in oral forms (like oils or capsules), eating a high-fat meal can significantly increase the amount of the drug absorbed into your system. This can make the effects much stronger than usual. It is best to be consistent with how you take it in relation to food.

Jugo de toronja

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interfere with how your body breaks down clarithromycin. This can lead to higher levels of the medicine in your blood, increasing the risk of side effects like an irregular heartbeat or stomach upset. Avoid large amounts of grapefruit products while taking this antibiotic.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interfere with how your body breaks down certain compounds in cannabis (particularly CBD). This can lead to higher levels of the medicine in your system, potentially increasing side effects.

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Descargo de responsabilidad

Esta información es solo para fines educativos generales y no debe considerarse como un sustituto del consejo médico profesional. Siempre consulte a su médico de cabecera, farmacéutico u otro profesional de la salud calificado antes de tomar decisiones sobre sus medicamentos. Las circunstancias individuales pueden variar, y solo un profesional de la salud que conozca su historial médico puede proporcionar orientación personalizada.