Does Theophylline Interact with Cannabidiol?
Theophylline and Cannabidiol have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Increases in exposure may be observed as cannabidiol is a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor. Consider dosage reduction where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious adverse reactions. The mechanism involves cyp1a2 inhibition. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Theophylline Class
- Methylxanthine
- Cannabidiol Class
- Cytochrome P450 2C8 Inhibitors
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Theophylline and Cannabidiol occurs because cyp1a2 inhibition. Clinically, this means increases in exposure may be observed as cannabidiol is a weak cyp1a2 inhibitor. consider dosage reduction where minimal concentration changes may lead to serious adverse reactions. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Theophylline and your doctor is considering prescribing Cannabidiol (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider