CBD vs. Ibuprofen for Pain

CBD is providing a new and effective way for adults to deal with pain. So why do people keep using ibuprofen? Ibuprofen has side effects that everyone should be aware of. A few of the side effects of ibuprofen are, stomachaches, heartburn, rashes, constipation, loss of hearing, indigestion, heart palpitations, and loss of appetite. The side effects of ibuprofen are serious. The previous list was just the short-term effects of using ibuprofen. The long-term effectsalong with increased dosage of ibuprofen to manage pain include kidney disease, heart problems, and gastrointestinal bleeding.CBD can help reduce pain without causing such severe side effects.

Pain is a function of the endocannabinoid system or ECS in the human body. The ECS transfers and receives signals of pain from cannabinoids. Pain is also worsened by factors such as underlying medical conditions and depression. Inflammation is managed by the cytokine immune cells. CBD is a plant produced cannabinoid that can activate or inhibit the ECS. Meaning that CBD can control and manage pain and inflammation. CBD can reduce pain and inflammation by interacting with the ECS system of the body as a natural plant-based product without any psychoactive effects.

Since CBD oils and other CBD products are natural, organic, and plant-based there is only a small chance you can suffer an allergic reaction to them such as hay fever. Consulting a primary care provider before first use is recommended. However, the coating and capsules of ibuprofen can have much harsher effects. The ingredients that make them up can cause hives, shortness of breath, swelling, rashes, and even anaphylaxis. According the journal Current Drug Safety,CBD’s side effects are minimal and short-term compared to ibuprofen when used for pain. CBD is non-toxic and does not cause any change in food intake, blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, gastrointestinal transit, or alter psychological function. Repeated use and high dosage are tolerated by humans. The side-effects of CBD are dizziness, tiredness, diarrhea, and weight gain or loss. Small side effects compared to that of ibuprofen.

Both ibuprofen and CBD are used to treat pain.  However, when weighing the options of side effects and long-term use, the cons of ibuprofen are worry-some. Increase of dosage and chronic use of ibuprofen can lead to some serious problems as mentioned earlier, however increase in dosage with CBD has not shown to lead to further problems.

When considering CBD vs. ibuprofen, considering the side effects and safety of the products, CBD is increasingly becoming an effective and safe alternative to ibuprofen. Further research and studies will further the profile on CBD’s safety and reliability as a source to treat chronic pain. CBD is becoming more available as regulation on marijuana and CBD continue to ease.  It is available in various forms such as capsules, creams, and sprays. CBD products can be found in retailers online and in stores. As products like ours become more available to the public at large, its acceptance as a safer more holistic alternative will surely gain recognition.