Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive component of cannabis that is generating increasing interest in the health world. Its anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties could potentially help people with asthma. Salbutamol, or albuterol, is already widely used to treat asthma and relieve asthma attacks. In this article, we will examine the interactions between these two substances and their influence on this chronic condition. Medications Using Salbutamol/Albuterol Salbutamol (also called albuterol) belongs to the class of medications called fast-acting bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways to allow for easier breathing. In France, it is sold under the brand names:
Ventolin
SalbuHEXAL
- Sultanol
- It is also available in generic form and can be prescribed by your doctor to treat or prevent wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath caused by asthma. ProAir: Another Name for Albuterol in the United States
- In the United States, albuterol is also marketed under the name ProAir. Used as a dose-controlled inhaler, it delivers the substance directly to the lungs for rapid action and few undesirable side effects.
CBD: An Alternative Treatment for Asthma?
Extracted from cannabis and not producing a psychotropic effect in users, CBD is gaining popularity for its medicinal properties and its ability to improve the quality of life for patients with various chronic health conditions. In general, CBD is known to:
Act on the endocannabinoid system
Have anti-inflammatory properties
Relieve pain
- Combat anxiety and sleep disorders
- Reduce certain seizures in epileptic patients
- How does CBD affect asthma?
- Studies suggest that CBD may have several beneficial effects on asthma due to its relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties. First, CBD can reduce inflammation in the airways, which can improve the comfort of asthma patients. Additionally, CBD also appears to relax the muscles around the bronchi, which could make breathing easier. Finally, CBD’s anxiolytic properties may help alleviate some psychological symptoms associated with asthma, such as anxiety or stress.
- Interactions between CBD and Salbutamol/Albuterol
At least on paper, there are no major contraindications between using CBD and salbutamol (or albuterol) together, although no clinical studies have definitively confirmed that this combination is safe. However, we already know that:
CBD may potentiate certain effects of salbutamoland/albuterol through synergy due to its various actions.
No negative drug interactions have been reported in the literature when these two substances are used together.
Some people with asthma report feeling better thanks to CBD, either alone or in combination with their usual medications.
- Some precautions to take:
- Before considering adding CBD to your asthma treatment, it is essential to consult your doctor. They can inform you about any potential risks based on your medical history and monitor your health during the combined use of these substances.
It is also essential not to smoke cannabis to obtain the medicinal properties of CBD.
Because burning cannabis creates and inhales numerous irritants that can worsen respiratory conditions, it’s best to opt for traditional methods like oils or capsules to enjoy the potential benefits of CBD without the added risk to your lungs.
In short: what about CBD and Salbutamol/Albuterol for treating asthma?
The debate surrounding the legitimacy of combining CBD and salbutamol/albuterol in asthma treatment remains open. However, in France, as in several countries where medical cannabis is legal, some doctors are beginning to incorporate this innovative approach to alleviate certain problems associated with the disease. Caution is still advised when exploring a new treatment option: consult your doctor before taking any action.
