The ingestion of cannabis edibles introduces Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and/or Cannabidiol (CBD) into the body, where the active compounds are metabolized primarily by the liver before entering the bloodstream. There is no specific clinical research that has investigated the direct interaction between cannabis edibles and an active SARS-CoV-2 infection. The potential risks of using edibles while ill with COVID-19 are instead inferred from the known pharmacological effects of cannabinoids and how they might affect the body’s response to the viral illness and common symptoms. Understanding these physiological responses is necessary to assess the potential consequences of combining the two.
Interaction with Common COVID-19 Physical Symptoms
Edibles bypass the respiratory irritation associated with smoking or vaping, which is beneficial when the lungs or throat are inflamed from a viral infection. However, the systemic effects of THC can still interfere with the body’s management of common COVID-19 symptoms. A frequent side effect of THC is dry mouth, sometimes called “cottonmouth,” which occurs because cannabinoids bind to receptors on the salivary glands, inhibiting saliva production. This reduction in moisture can worsen an existing sore throat or cough caused by the virus, increasing irritation and discomfort.
The viral infection often causes profound fatigue and malaise, which the sedative properties of edibles can significantly amplify. THC is known to induce drowsiness, and combining this effect with the severe exhaustion caused by COVID-19 may lead to excessive sedation. This compounded tiredness could make it difficult for an individual to stay alert and monitor the progression of their illness, such as a change in breathing or a rapidly increasing fever.
Fevers are a natural part of the immune response. While some research suggests cannabinoids can affect the body’s temperature regulation center in the hypothalamus, this effect is usually mild. More concerning is the risk of dehydration, which fever already makes more likely. Dry mouth caused by edibles can discourage fluid intake, further complicating the maintenance of proper hydration necessary for recovery. Furthermore, some studies suggest that cannabis use may suppress the immune system, potentially undermining the body’s ability to fight off a viral infection.
Factors Affecting Absorption and Potency During Illness
COVID-19 is known to affect the digestive system, with a significant percentage of patients experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The SARS-CoV-2 virus can disrupt the intestinal lining, potentially compromising the normal absorption of nutrients. Since edibles must be digested and their active compounds metabolized by the liver, any GI distress can drastically alter the absorption rate and overall potency.
The onset of effects from edibles is notoriously slow and variable, typically ranging from 30 minutes to over two hours. When a person is experiencing GI issues, this delay can become even more unpredictable. An individual might mistakenly believe the edible is not working and consume a second dose. Once the digestive system finally processes the cannabinoids, the combined dose could lead to accidental overconsumption, resulting in a much more intense experience than intended.
Another consideration is the interaction with over-the-counter medications commonly used for COVID-19 symptom relief. Both THC and CBD are metabolized by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, specifically the CYP3A4 enzyme. Many common medications, such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs like ibuprofen, are also processed by the same liver pathways. Combining edibles with these fever and pain relievers can inhibit the metabolism of the medications, potentially leading to higher concentrations of the drug in the bloodstream. This competition for the liver’s metabolic enzymes can increase the strain on the organ and potentially prolong or intensify the effects of both the edible and the medication.
Cognitive and Psychological Effects While Sick
An active viral infection, especially one accompanied by fever, can already impair cognitive function, often resulting in the “brain fog” associated with COVID-19. Introducing a psychoactive substance like THC into this state can worsen confusion and disorientation. Maintaining a clear mental state is important when monitoring symptoms and making decisions about self-care and seeking medical attention.
The stress and isolation of being ill can also increase the risk of adverse psychological outcomes when using edibles. THC can trigger or exacerbate feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and panic, especially in unfamiliar or stressful circumstances. Being confined and unwell while experiencing the intense, long-lasting psychoactive effects of an edible can lead to a distressing experience, making it harder to manage the emotional toll of the illness.
The combination of fever-induced confusion and the intoxicating effects of THC can lead to difficulty in processing information and maintaining perspective. This disorientation can compromise an individual’s ability to accurately assess their physical condition or manage any medical emergencies. For individuals who are already prone to anxiety, the unpredictable nature of an edible’s potency while ill may intensify feelings of being overwhelmed or out of control.