Combining Ibuprofen With Cannabis: The Safety Facts You Need to Know

Currently, numerous scientific studies support using cannabis for pain and inflammation. For example, a noteworthy study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2015 demonstrated that patients with chronic pain experienced a significant reduction in pain symptoms after using cannabis, highlighting its potential as a viable treatment option.

Additionally, a comprehensive review of 28 studies published in JAMA in 2016 found that marijuana effectively treated chronic pain in adults. Then in 2017, the National Academies reinforced the claim, “There is substantial evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment for chronic pain in adults.” Studies since then only further strengthen the case for cannabis as an alternative pain management therapy. But what happens when used in conjunction with another popular anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen?

Whether it’s to treat a headache or inflammation after a long day at work, this symbiotic pairing can really get that pesky pain out of your life — assuming you do it safely. But here’s the thing: there are some essential safety facts about combining ibuprofen and marijuana that rarely get discussed. So today, we’ll be diving into those nitty-gritty details. Continue reading to discover essential information before incorporating both substances into your pain-relief regimen.

How They Work Together

Ibuprofen works its pain-relieving magic by stopping the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are like messengers that tell the body to react to things like injury or swelling. They play a role in how individuals experience pain, develop fevers, and how their blood vessels change size.

Ibuprofen works by stopping an enzyme (a kind of protein that helps chemical reactions happen) called cyclooxygenase (COX), which exists in two forms: COX-1 and COX-2. It prevents these enzymes from making these prostaglandins. By blocking the activity of both COX-1 and COX-2, ibuprofen effectively reduces the production of prostaglandins, leading to decreased inflammation, pain, and fever – with some known drawbacks to the cardiovascular and gut systems. 

Meanwhile, cannabis acts on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the more extensive endocannabinoidome (eCBome), which help regulate pain perception, inflammation, and stress response. 

Interestingly, 2024 research notes how NSAIDS, especially ibuprofen, synergize with the endocannabinoid system. In addition to blocking COX enzymes, it also blocks FAAH and thus increases available endocannabinoids that go to work on CB receptors. The ECS consists of certain enzymes, endocannabinoids, and two primary receptors: cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2).

CB1 Receptors and Pain Response

CB1 receptors are predominantly found in the brain and central nervous system (CNS). They play a significant role in modulating pain signals by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters involved in pain transmission.

Activation of CB1 receptors can lead to pain relief, especially for neuropathic pain, by reducing the excitability of neurons responsible for transmitting pain signals. Endocannabinoids and plant-based cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary compound responsible for cannabis’ psychoactive effects, activate CB1 receptors to produce those effects.

CB2 Receptors and Pain Response

CB2 receptors are mainly expressed in immune cells and peripheral tissues, playing a crucial role in regulating inflammation and immune response. Activation of CB2 receptors can help reduce inflammation and pain, especially in conditions with an inflammatory component, such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

Cannabidiol (CBD) binds more readily to ECS enzymes like FAAH, and increases endocannabinoids that work on CB receptors. While it doesn’t work on CB1 directly, CBD may have weak actions at CB2 receptors, which may explain why it delivers anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects without causing the psychoactive high associated with THC. Also, CBD is known to have over 65 other molecular targets in the eCBome, including many associated with pain, mood, and inflammation, that further supplement these effects.

The Potential Benefits of Combining Marijuana and Ibuprofen

CB1 and CB2 receptors manage pain through different mechanisms. CB1 receptors are primarily responsible for modulating pain signals in the CNS, while CB2 receptors help regulate inflammation and immune response, contributing to pain relief. 

Interestingly, CBD is shown to target the same enzymes as ibuprofen, COX-1 and COX-2. By targeting COX-1 and COX-2, CBD effectively inhibits the production of prostaglandins, resulting in reduced inflammation and pain. Remember that they also both block the ECS enzyme FAAH, resulting in more endocannabinoids and creating indirect effects at CB1. These shared mechanisms of action with ibuprofen highlight the promise of CBD as a natural alternative for pain relief, particularly for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical options to manage their discomfort. 

By combining the prostaglandin-eliminating effects of ibuprofen with cannabis, the unique combination may offer synergistic effects, potentially enhancing the overall pain relief experienced by users.

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Seeking relief from persistent pain can feel daunting at times, which is why it’s so inspiring to know that researchers are continuing to discover promising treatments. The combination of ibuprofen and cannabis is one such example, proving to be a powerful force in the world of pain management.

Working in tandem, they may offer an innovative approach to finding relief and greater peace of mind. Although side effects and interactions are important to consider, the advantages make combining ibuprofen and cannabis an option worth exploring. If you want further guidance on how this treatment could benefit you or access medicinal marijuana, connect with Veriheal today to apply for your MMJ card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Take Ibuprofen if You Smoke?

Yes, ibuprofen does not tend to interact adversely with cannabis.  Remember that ibuprofen should only be used short-term as it has many long-term side effects by itself, and you should consult your doctor for any severe or ongoing pain needs.

Does Ibuprofen Interact With Drugs?

Ibuprofen can interact with some drugs or medications. If you are taking a medication, it is best to speak with your doctor about whether ibuprofen can be combined with it. 

Is Ibuprofen a High-Risk Medication?

Ibuprofen has some common side effects, including upset stomach, heartburn, and dizziness. Keep in mind that these side effects are usually mild and can be managed by following dosage instructions and taking the medication with food or milk.

However, long-term ibuprofen use can pose several potential dangers. Prolonged consumption may increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers or bleeding, and contribute to kidney damage or liver injury. Furthermore, studies have linked extended NSAID use to elevated blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.

To minimize these risks, following your healthcare provider’s guidance and taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration is essential.

Does Ibuprofen Affect the Lungs?

Although ibuprofen is not likely to have a significant effect on the lungs, it can have some potential positive or negative effects, but mainly for developing lungs. These effects include positive impacts like the reduction of lung inflammation, as well as some negative effects in infants. 

In 2020, the FDA warned pregnant individuals about potential risks of NSAIDs, including delayed lung development. But it is safe in breastfeeding with some dosage adjustment. 

What Not to Mix Ibuprofen With?

There are various medications that ibuprofen should not be taken with. Most notably, you should not take ibuprofen with another type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like aspirin or naproxen without speaking to your doctor. However, it is acceptable to take ibuprofen with paracetamol.

If you are taking another medication and you are unsure whether ibuprofen should be taken with it, it’s best to ask your doctor. 

What Organ is Most Affected by Ibuprofen?

The organ that is most affected by ibuprofen is the kidneys, and this is part of why it is very important to avoid taking too much ibuprofen. However, the gut and cardiovascular system may experience the most serious long-term effects.

Can Ibuprofen Cause a False Positive for Drugs?

No, ibuprofen cannot cause a false positive for drug screening. 

When is Ibuprofen Not Safe?

Ibuprofen can be unsafe when taken in amounts greater than the recommended amount, for longer directed by the bottle or doctor, or when taken in combination with alcohol or some other medications. The herbal supplement ginkgo biloba may increase the risk of bleeding, but not much is known about other herbal remedies.

Is Ibuprofen Stronger Than Acetaminophen? 

Ibuprofen and acetaminophen (paracetamol) reduce pain in different ways. Ibuprofen specifically works by reducing inflammation. It can be taken in conjunction with paracetamol to reduce pain, since they work differently. 

Is Ibuprofen a Narcotic?

No, ibuprofen is not a narcotic.