As interest in cannabidiol (CBD) continues to grow, many individuals are exploring its potential effects on various health conditions. A frequent question that arises is whether CBD can cause tinnitus, a common auditory perception. Understanding the current scientific perspective on this relationship is important. This article explores the existing evidence to provide clarity on CBD’s connection to tinnitus.
Understanding CBD and Tinnitus
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is generally considered non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use. While it interacts with the central nervous system, it does not cause euphoria.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. This phantom sound can manifest as ringing, buzzing, hissing, roaring, or clicking in one or both ears. Tinnitus is a widespread issue, affecting approximately 10% to 25% of adults, and it is particularly common among older individuals.
Current Evidence: Does CBD Cause Tinnitus?
Scientific research directly linking CBD as a cause of tinnitus is limited, with a lack of robust clinical trials specifically investigating its role. While some anecdotal reports from users exist, these are not considered definitive scientific evidence.
A 2022 study involving 201 older adults who used medical cannabis noted that 9.1% reported tinnitus as a side effect when using products containing both CBD and THC. The authors suggested further investigation was warranted. However, this single finding does not confirm a direct causal link between CBD alone and tinnitus.
Indirect factors might also be misinterpreted as causation. For instance, individual sensitivities to cannabinoids can vary significantly, and unregulated CBD products might contain contaminants or undisclosed levels of THC, which could contribute to adverse reactions. Some animal studies suggest certain cannabinoids might worsen tinnitus in rats by increasing activity in the dorsal cochlear nucleus, a brain region involved in sound perception. However, these findings do not directly translate to human experiences.
CBD as a Potential Treatment for Tinnitus
While concerns exist about CBD potentially causing tinnitus, some research explores its therapeutic effects on symptoms. CBD possesses properties such as anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), and pain-relieving effects. These properties could indirectly help manage symptoms often associated with tinnitus, such as stress, anxiety, or sleep disturbances, which can exacerbate the perceived sounds.
For example, a 2021 study found that CBD reduced anxiety and improved sleep scores for many participants. This suggests that while CBD may not directly reduce the volume of tinnitus, it could help alleviate the psychological distress or sleep issues that often accompany the condition. Research on CBD for treating tinnitus directly remains inconclusive, with reviews from 2020 indicating insufficient scientific evidence from both animal and human studies.
What to Do if You Experience Tinnitus While Using CBD
If you experience new or worsening tinnitus while using CBD, discontinue use temporarily to see if symptoms resolve. Tinnitus can have numerous causes, including age-related hearing loss, ear injuries, or circulatory system problems, so a medical evaluation is important. Consulting a healthcare professional, such as an audiologist, is recommended for proper diagnosis and guidance.
When selecting CBD products, consider their quality and purity. Since the FDA does not regulate most non-prescription CBD products, their quality and strength can vary widely. Opting for products that provide third-party lab testing results can help ensure they are free from contaminants and accurately labeled. It is also important to discuss any CBD use with your doctor, especially if you are taking other medications, as CBD can interact with certain drugs, such as blood thinners.