Can Nurses Take CBD?

What is CBD?

CBD is the abbreviation used to refer to cannabidiol, which is a natural substance extracted from the cannabis plant. Most commonly sold in oil form, studies have found it to be a viable treatment option for many medical complaints, including anxiety, pain management, and even cancer. Given it is derived from the cannabis plant, which many people associate with the illicit use of marijuana, it has seen its fair share of controversy over the years. While it is true that both substances come from the same plant, they are vastly different in their uses, applications, and effects.

Some people may be concerned about CBD affecting their work performance. Nurses, in particular, have an incredibly important job that relies on focus, concentration, and alertness. It is also not uncommon for nurses to be subject to random drug tests. If you are a nurse and considering taking CBD, then this article is for you. Can nurses take CBD? Read on to learn more.

How is CBD different to marijuana?

Marijuana has been used recreationally and even medicinally for centuries. Its fame as a drug used for the purpose of “getting high” has seen it fall out of favour in many circles of so-called civilised society, yet despite this, it continues to be a popular drug. Interestingly, this persists in being the case even in parts of the world where its use remains illegal. Regardless of one’s views on the use of marijuana, most people are familiar with the general effects caused by its use. Drowsiness, dizziness, euphoria, and sometimes paranoia and anxiety or depression, are commonly seen. Studies have also shown that regular, long-term use can lead to even more serious mental health complaints. And if the drug is smoked, it can result in damage to the lungs, throat and airways.

What is important to remember about CBD oil, however, is that if it is extracted from the cannabis plant correctly, it will not produce the psychoactive effects typically associated with marijuana use. CBD oil contains little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the active ingredient in marijuana that produces the “high” sensation. Also, CBD comes in oil form, therefore it is not designed to be smoked, preventing any potential damage to the respiratory tract.

As a nurse, you obviously do not want to be “high” whilst working, regardless of your views on marijuana use. Fortunately CBD does not produce this “high” effect.

Will I get a positive drug test if I take CBD?

To answer this question, it is firstly important to explain how drug tests work. They do not simply test for the presence of the drug itself. Instead, they test for what are known as metabolites, which are certain active ingredients within the substance. In the case of drug tests aiming to detect marijuana use, the metabolite the test looks for is THC. As stated above, good quality CBD oil should contain little to no THC, therefore if you are taking this, you should not expect to return a positive drug test. However, if you are using low quality CBD oil, derived from a questionable source, the THC levels may be much higher. You should be aware of this and aim to obtain your CBD oil from only trustworthy sources. As long as you do this, you should have no concerns if your employer wishes you to undertake a random drug test.

Does CBD have any worrying side effects?

One of the positives that has come out of CBD oil being deemed so controversial, is the myriad of studies that have been conducted to determine not only its efficacy, but its safety and potential for side effects. In fact, if you look hard enough, there are actually more studies examining its safety than its effectiveness as a treatment.

Research has found that not only is CBD oil safe to take in large quantities, daily, without risk of overdose, but that it also has little to no side effects. Results have been largely consistent with anecdotal evidence also supporting these findings. However, as noted above, you should ensure you are obtaining your CBD oil from reliable sources only, as with lower quality versions containing more THC, the risk of potential side effects increases.

Some studies have found CBD can result in a calming effect, if taken correctly. As a nurse, you should be aware of your dosage and when you take it if you are concerned about feeling “too calm” at work. You should note this risk is minimal, however.

Can nurses safely take CBD?

So can nurses take CBD? If you are considering CBD oil for medical treatment, you should first consult your doctor. They are best placed to help you determine if CBD oil is right for you and for the particular condition you wish to treat. They will also be able to assist you in locating trustworthy CBD oil suppliers. Generally, CBD is safe for nurses to take and still be able to perform their job, according to the available research.