Inquiry About Cyclosporine Use and Cannabis Consumption for Psoriasis
Hello, I’m an 18-year-old male weighing 89 kg and standing approximately 178 cm tall. I am dealing with moderate psoriasis characterized by small, unpainful patches. Although they're not severely bothersome, they are unsightly. Recently, I began a treatment regimen that includes various topical creams and, notably, two tablets of cyclosporine (100 mg each) daily. I started this two weeks ago and have not experienced any significant side effects, apart from a mild case of diarrhea once. I have come across information suggesting that CBD might elevate cyclosporine levels to potentially dangerous levels. However, the hash we consume has a CBD concentration of only 10-15% and is predominantly THC. I am not a frequent smoker but have taken a few puffs during the past few weeks while on cyclosporine, and so far I haven’t encountered any difficulties. Still, I find myself feeling anxious about it, particularly since cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant. While I realize that consulting my dermatologist is the best course of action, I'm concerned that my parents might discover this information, which worries me. Is it safe for me to continue smoking occasionally? Would it be wiser to completely refrain from it? Or am I already at risk without realizing it? I appreciate any advice you can offer.
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 9:10:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about combining treatments, especially when using immunosuppressants like cyclosporine. Let's break this down clearly.
Main Points:
- Cyclosporine and Cannabinoids Interaction: There is potential for cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, to influence cyclosporine levels in the body.
- Immunosuppressant Caution: Since cyclosporine suppresses your immune system, being cautious about other substances is important.
Explanation: Cycloporine is a medication often used to treat conditions like psoriasis because it helps reduce skin inflammation. However, it can affect your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Cannabis, particularly its active compounds like THC and CBD, can interact with the enzymes that metabolize cyclosporine in the liver. This means that while you might have only consumed it occasionally, there is still the possibility that it affects how cyclosporine works in your body.
Next Steps:
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Reconsider Cannabis Use: Given the uncertainties around the drug interactions and your current treatment, it may be best to refrain from using cannabis altogether while on cyclosporine. This minimizes any risk of potentially dangerous interactions, even if you're not currently experiencing issues.
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Monitor Symptoms: Continue to observe how you feel on cyclosporine, noting any changes in your psoriasis or any new side effects.
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Educate Yourself: Research further about both psoriasis treatment and the impact of cannabis on immune function. Understanding more about your medications can help you make informed choices.
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Plan for Discussion: If you feel comfortable, consider gradually discussing your cannabis use with your dermatologist or healthcare provider when you can. Opening up this dialogue can help ensure you receive tailored, safe advice for your ongoing treatment.
Your health and peace of mind are important, so it's wise to prioritize safe practices while managing your psoriasis. If new symptoms arise or you feel increasingly anxious, reaching out to a healthcare professional might provide additional clarity and reassurance.
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