Can CBD Gummies Be Used to Quit Drinking?

Key Takeaways

• Alcohol addiction is a chronic condition with increased mortality rates, affecting health and social relationships.
• CBD, a non-intoxicating compound from Cannabis sativa, interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and may have therapeutic effects.
• CBD gummies provide a convenient, discreet way to consume CBD, with potential benefits for pain, anxiety and sleep issues.
• Early research suggests CBD may help reduce alcohol cravings and protect against alcohol-related liver damage.
• Combining CBD with alcohol may amplify effects like drowsiness and sedation and should be approached with caution.
• Potential side effects of CBD gummies include drowsiness, stomach upset and dry mouth and they may interact with other medications.
• Legal and health considerations are important when using CBD gummies for alcohol addiction recovery, including FDA regulations and potential drug interactions.

Alcohol Addiction and Its Impact

Alcohol addiction, also known as AUD, is a chronic condition characterized by an inability to control drinking habits despite negative consequences. It involves a preoccupation with alcohol and continued use even when it causes harm or distress. The condition can have far-reaching effects on personal safety, health and social relationships.

The impact of alcohol addiction extends beyond the individual to the broader community. Alcohol-attributable conditions include liver disease, pancreatitis and various forms of cancer. Moreover, alcohol use is a causal risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Public health strategies are needed to address this trend, including comprehensive approaches to discourage excessive drinking and promote early intervention and treatment.

What is Cannabidiol?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound found in Cannabis sativa, distinct from its psychoactive counterpart, THC. Extracted primarily from hemp due to legal considerations, CBD has gained prominence for its potential therapeutic effects, although it does not induce a ‘high’. Research indicates that CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating various physiological processes such as pain, mood and appetite.

Unlike THC, CBD is not considered addictive and may even exhibit anti-addictive properties against substances like opioids. Its interaction with the body involves various mechanisms, including influencing ion channels and enzyme activity, which can affect the metabolism of other drugs. 

Potential Uses

CBD’s efficacy in treating conditions such as anxiety, depression and chronic pain has been the subject of various studies, with some reporting positive outcomes while others indicate mixed results. It’s important to note that factors like dosage, administration method and individual characteristics can significantly influence CBD’s therapeutic potential.

While the science of CBD is promising, it is crucial to approach its use with caution due to potential drug-drug interactions and the need for more comprehensive clinical trials to fully understand its effects.

CBD Gummies: Composition and Consumption

CBD gummies are edible candies typically made using CBD oil or CBD isolate, with additional ingredients such as sweeteners, flavors and sometimes vitamins or herbal supplements. The potency of CBD in each gummy can range from as low as 5 mg to as high as 50 mg or more, allowing consumers to tailor their intake to their specific needs. The gummies are designed to be chewed and swallowed and they must pass through the digestive system before the CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours.

When selecting CBD gummies, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of CBD used — full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate — the presence of a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and whether the product is organic, gluten-free, or vegan, based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Consumers should also be aware of the legal status of CBD in their area, as regulations can vary.

Benefits of CBD Gummies

CBD gummies offer a discreet and convenient way to consume CBD, often preferred for their ease of dosing and portability. CBD gummies come in various shapes, flavors and concentrations, making them an appealing option for both new and experienced users. While research on their potential health benefits is limited, CBD has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat certain types of epilepsy and ongoing studies are examining its broader health impacts.

Users often consume CBD gummies to manage pain, sleep issues and anxiety, although it’s important to note that effects may vary and onset time can be longer due to the digestive process. Always ensure the purchase of CBD gummies from reputable sources to guarantee quality and safety.

The Role of CBD in Alcohol Addiction Treatment

The relationship between CBD and alcohol addiction is a subject of increasing interest in the medical community. Research indicates that CBD may offer potential benefits in managing symptoms associated with AUD. Studies have shown that CBD can influence brain networks linked to addiction, suggesting a therapeutic role in alleviating AUD symptoms. 

However, caution is advised when combining CBD with alcohol. Mixing the two substances may amplify each other’s effects, leading to increased drowsiness and sedation, which could pose safety concerns. The full extent of the interaction between CBD and alcohol requires further exploration to understand the risks and potential benefits fully.

While promising, it is important to note that CBD should not be used as the sole treatment for alcohol addiction. It can be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medical supervision and support for individuals struggling with AUD.

CBD’s Impact on Alcohol Addiction

Recent research has been exploring the potential of CBD as a therapeutic agent in treating AUD. For instance, a study highlighted by MSN found that CBD could mitigate the compulsive behaviors and high impulsivity often seen in withdrawal by modulating the endocannabinoid system. A systematic review of neuroimaging literature suggested elusive neurobiological mechanisms by which CBD may ameliorate symptoms of AUD, prompting further investigation into its effects on the brain.

Clinical trials and human laboratory studies have yielded mixed results regarding CBD’s efficacy. Some evidence indicates that CBD may qualitatively reduce self-reported pain and anxiety, which could indirectly support AUD treatment by addressing comorbid conditions.

Additional research highlights CBD’s role in modulating dopaminergic neurotransmission and suggests it may influence drug reward pathways—a promising avenue for AUD intervention. Preclinical results also suggest that CBD could attenuate alcohol consumption and protect against alcohol’s harmful effects, such as liver and brain damage.

Taking CBD Gummies to Reduce Alcohol Cravings

Animal studies have demonstrated that CBD can significantly decrease alcohol-seeking behaviors and reduce impulsivity associated with withdrawal. Notably, these effects were observed to last for up to five months after the cessation of CBD treatment, even though CBD itself was no longer present in the system after three days. This suggests a long-term benefit of CBD in modulating addictive behaviors.

While human research is limited, the available studies indicate that CBD may help individuals with AUD by lowering their alcohol intake and cravings. CBD’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in stress, anxiety and addiction, is thought to be the key mechanism behind these effects. The endocannabinoid system’s regulation through CBD may provide physiological support during alcohol withdrawal, potentially easing symptoms like stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances and pain.

Real-Life Experiences with CBD Gummies for Alcohol Addiction Recovery

The journey to recovery from alcohol addiction is deeply personal and often filled with challenges and triumphs. Personal anecdotes from individuals who have used CBD gummies as a part of their recovery process provide valuable insights into the practicalities and effects of this approach.

For example, an online event titled ‘How CBD Care Gummies Changed My Life’ suggests transformative experiences that resonate with others seeking non-traditional paths to sobriety. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the complexity of addiction recovery and that CBD gummies may not be a universal solution for everyone.

Moreover, the varied onset time of CBD gummies due to individual metabolic differences, as noted in Forbes Health’s review of CBD products, implies that personal experiences with CBD can differ greatly.

Side Effects of CBD Gummies

Common side effects reported by users include drowsiness, stomach upset and dry mouth. In some cases, these side effects are mild and may be considered beneficial for those seeking relaxation or better sleep. However, they can be problematic when combined with other sedating medications. Given the regulatory landscape, some CBD products may be mislabeled or contaminated, posing additional risks.

Another concern is the interaction of CBD with other drugs, which can lead to adverse effects or reduced efficacy of medications. This is due to CBD’s influence on the body’s drug metabolism pathways. Moreover, long-term use of CBD raises questions about liver health, as some studies suggest a risk of liver injury.

Legal and Health Considerations for CBD Gummies in Alcohol Addiction Recovery

CBD’s status as an FDA-approved medication for certain conditions (Epidiolex) means it cannot be legally added to food or marketed as a dietary supplement unless deemed safe by the FDA, a determination that has not yet been made. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that any CBD gummies used comply with current FDA regulations.

Given the complex regulatory environment surrounding CBD, individuals interested in using CBD gummies to support recovery should consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in medical cannabis to navigate these considerations safely and legally. 

Overcoming alcohol use disorder might seem impossible. But that’s not the case. Many people can recover if they go to a specialized rehab center that uses proven treatments. Alcohol treatment uses various methods to help with withdrawal and addiction. With these interventions, people can find health and happiness in sobriety.

Alcohol addiction treatments may include:

• Medication-assisted treatment: This treatment uses medicines to reduce AUD symptoms like cravings and withdrawal.
  
• Individual and group therapy: Talking with therapists either one-on-one or in groups can help people recover. Methods include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
  
• Relapse prevention programs: These programs teach people how to avoid relapse, understand the process and develop healthy coping methods.
  
• Family therapy: AUDs affect the entire family. Working with a family therapist can start the path to healing the relationships damaged by alcohol misuse.

• Recreational therapies: These therapies help people in recovery find joy in their new, sober life, improving their physical and mental health.
  

At Orlando Recovery Center Drug and Alcohol Rehab, we offer many alcohol addiction treatment options led by train medical professionals. Our levels of care include medical detox, inpatient rehabilitation and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs). No matter where you are in your recovery journey, our team will be there every step of the way. Start your admission today.