What Blood Tests Can CBD Alter?

Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improved sleep. However, as with any supplement, it’s essential to understand how CBD may interact with various blood tests. This article explores the potential effects of CBD on different blood tests, helping you make informed decisions about its use.

1. Drug Screenings

One of the most common concerns regarding CBD is its potential to interfere with drug screenings. CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, which also contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. While CBD itself is non-psychoactive, some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC.

1.1 THC Blood Tests

THC blood tests can detect the presence of THC in the bloodstream. If you’re taking CBD products with trace amounts of THC, there’s a possibility that these tests may show a positive result for THC. However, it’s important to note that the concentration of THC in CBD products is typically very low, and most drug screenings have a cutoff threshold for THC detection.

1.2 CBD Blood Tests

CBD blood tests specifically measure the levels of CBD in the bloodstream. These tests are not commonly used, as they are expensive and not widely available. However, if you’re undergoing a medical evaluation or a legal proceeding, your healthcare provider or legal team may request a CBD blood test to determine your CBD use.

2. Liver Function Tests

CBD has been shown to have potential effects on the liver, and as a result, it may alter liver function tests (LFTs). LFTs measure the health of the liver by evaluating enzymes and proteins found in the blood.

2.1 Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

ALT is an enzyme found in the liver that can increase in levels when the liver is damaged or inflamed. CBD has been associated with a mild increase in ALT levels in some studies, although the clinical significance of this finding is still unclear.

2.2 Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

AST is another enzyme found in the liver that can increase in levels when the liver is damaged or inflamed. Similar to ALT, CBD has been associated with a mild increase in AST levels in some studies.

3. Kidney Function Tests

CBD may also have potential effects on kidney function, and as a result, it may alter kidney function tests (KFTs). KFTs measure the health of the kidneys by evaluating creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels.

3.1 Creatinine

Creatinine is a waste product produced by the muscles and filtered out by the kidneys. Elevated creatinine levels may indicate kidney dysfunction. Some studies have suggested that CBD may cause a slight increase in creatinine levels, but the clinical significance of this finding is still unclear.

3.2 Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

BUN is a waste product produced by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Elevated BUN levels may indicate kidney dysfunction. Similar to creatinine, some studies have suggested that CBD may cause a slight increase in BUN levels, but the clinical significance of this finding is still unclear.

Conclusion

While CBD has potential health benefits, it’s important to be aware of its potential effects on various blood tests. CBD may interfere with drug screenings, particularly if the product contains trace amounts of THC. Additionally, CBD may have mild effects on liver and kidney function, which may be reflected in LFTs and KFTs. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting CBD to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.