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§ 10 — INTERACTION CHECKER

INTERACTION CHECKER.

A general reference for what the pharmacology literature flags about cannabis and common veteran-prescribed medications. This is not personalized medical advice — it is a starting point for the conversation with your pharmacist or doctor.

IMPORTANT

This tool provides general information based on published pharmacology literature. It is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice. Always discuss potential drug interactions with your pharmacist or healthcare provider, who can review your complete medication list.

MODERATE INTERACTION

SSRIs (sertraline, fluoxetine, citalopram, etc.)

Cannabis may increase or decrease SSRI blood levels. Some reports suggest cannabis may increase anxiety when combined with SSRIs. Monitor for changes in mood, anxiety, and side effects. Do not stop SSRIs suddenly.

SOURCE: NIDA Cannabis Research Report; pharmacology literature

MODERATE INTERACTION

SNRIs (venlafaxine, duloxetine, etc.)

Similar to SSRIs. Cannabis may affect SNRI metabolism. Monitor for changes in mood, anxiety, blood pressure, and side effects. Do not stop SNRIs suddenly — withdrawal can occur.

SOURCE: NIDA Cannabis Research Report; pharmacology literature

HIGH INTERACTION

Benzodiazepines (lorazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, etc.)

Both cannabis and benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants. Combining them increases sedation, dizziness, cognitive impairment, and risk of accidents. Do not combine without medical supervision. Do not stop benzodiazepines suddenly — withdrawal can be dangerous.

SOURCE: FDA drug safety communications; pharmacology literature

HIGH INTERACTION

Sleep medications (zolpidem, eszopiclone, temazepam)

Combining cannabis with sleep medications increases sedation, dizziness, and morning grogginess. Increased risk of falls, especially in older adults. Discuss with your provider before combining.

SOURCE: FDA drug safety communications; CDC cannabis information

HIGH INTERACTION

Opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, etc.)

Combining cannabis with opioids increases sedation and may increase respiratory depression risk. The interaction is not fully understood. Do not combine without medical supervision. Do not stop or reduce opioids suddenly — withdrawal can be severe.

SOURCE: CDC opioid prescribing guidelines; pharmacology literature

MODERATE INTERACTION

Anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin, topiramate)

Cannabis may affect anticonvulsant metabolism and seizure threshold. Monitor for changes in seizure frequency, dizziness, and sedation. Discuss with your neurologist before combining.

SOURCE: Epilepsy Foundation; pharmacology literature

HIGH INTERACTION

Blood thinners (warfarin)

Cannabis may affect warfarin metabolism and increase bleeding risk. Close monitoring of INR is essential. Do not start or stop cannabis without discussing with your provider if you take warfarin.

SOURCE: FDA drug safety communications; pharmacology literature

MODERATE INTERACTION

Blood pressure medications

Cannabis can affect heart rate and blood pressure. Combining with blood pressure medications may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting — especially when standing up. Monitor blood pressure regularly.

SOURCE: AHA cannabis guidance; pharmacology literature

HIGH INTERACTION

Antidepressants (tricyclics, MAOIs)

Cannabis may interact with older antidepressants. MAOIs have serious interaction potential with many substances. Discuss with your psychiatrist before combining.

SOURCE: Pharmacology literature; FDA drug safety communications

MODERATE INTERACTION

Alcohol

Combining cannabis with alcohol increases impairment, dizziness, and risk of accidents. Alcohol can increase THC absorption. The combination can cause nausea and vomiting in some individuals.

SOURCE: CDC cannabis information; NIDA Cannabis Research Report

SEVERITY KEY:

HIGH — Discuss before combiningMODERATE — Monitor closely

DISCLAIMER

This page is educational and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized healthcare recommendations. Cannabis affects people differently and carries risks. Always discuss medical decisions, medication changes, and cannabis use with a qualified healthcare professional. Cannabis laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Always confirm current law through official government sources.

§ 13 — CRISIS & SUPPORT RESOURCES

IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS, HELP IS AVAILABLE NOW.

Cannabis is not a crisis treatment. If you are struggling, please reach out to the resources below. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Veterans Crisis Line

Dial 988, then press 1. Or text 838255.

VETERANSCRISISLINE.NET

VA Mental Health

VA offers mental health services for veterans. Contact your VA medical center or call 1-800-273-8255.

MENTALHEALTH.VA.GOV

SAMHSA Helpline

Free, confidential treatment referral. Call 1-800-662-4357. Available 24/7 in English and Spanish.

SAMHSA.GOV

CONTACT INFORMATION VERIFIED AGAINST OFFICIAL SOURCES. ALWAYS CONFIRM CURRENT NUMBERS DIRECTLY. CANNABIS IS NOT PRESENTED AS A CRISIS TREATMENT.