Benzodiazepine
Lorazepam and cannabis (marijuana, THC)
As cannabis becomes legal or decriminalised in more jurisdictions, the practical question of combining it with prescription medication comes up regularly. Lorazepam (Lorazepam) and cannabis share several pharmacological pathways, and the combination at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg is not automatically benign even where both are legal.
How cannabis affects Lorazepam
THC and other cannabinoids are metabolised partly by hepatic CYP enzymes, including CYP3A4 — the same pathway used by many Benzodiazepine medications. Frequent cannabis use can shift the metabolism of Lorazepam mildly. THC also has cardiovascular effects (increased heart rate, blood pressure changes) and central nervous system effects that can stack with Lorazepam's side-effect profile.
Practical guidance
Occasional moderate cannabis use is unlikely to cause clinically meaningful problems for most adults on Lorazepam at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg. Heavy daily use, edibles with high THC content, or cannabis combined with alcohol substantially raise the risk of dizziness, hypotension, impaired judgement and amplified side effects from Lorazepam. According to the prescribing information, the full list of recreational substances should be disclosed to the prescriber.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use cannabis while taking Lorazepam? ▾
For most adults at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg, occasional moderate cannabis is tolerated, but heavy daily use is not advised because of metabolic and additive cardiovascular effects with Lorazepam. The safe practice is to mention it to the prescriber.
Does CBD interact with Lorazepam? ▾
CBD inhibits several CYP enzymes including CYP3A4, which can raise plasma levels of medications that go through that pathway. For Lorazepam specifically, this depends on whether Lorazepam uses CYP3A4. Daily high-dose CBD products warrant a pharmacist check.
Products containing Lorazepam
More on Lorazepam
- With alcoholLorazepam and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Lorazepam be taken with food?
- Side effectsLorazepam side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideLorazepam dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Lorazepam start working?
- DurationHow long does Lorazepam last?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.