Thursday September 28 2023
If you’re a menopausal woman in the UK, you may be considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patches to manage your symptoms. You might also be exploring natural remedies like CBD because you’ve heard about the potential benefits, and you’re wondering, “Can you take CBD oil with HRT patches?”. It’s a crucial question, especially if you’re already using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patches to manage symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings.
At Prym Health, we want to support our customers to make informed decisions when taking CBD. So, let’s explore the interactions between CBD oil and hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
You’ve likely heard about CBD oil, especially since it’s legal in the UK for products with less than 0.2% THC. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its more famous cousin, THC, CBD doesn’t get you high. Instead, it’s gaining attention for its potential health benefits, from reducing anxiety to easing chronic pain. CBD oil has many benefits for menopausal symptoms as well, including improving bone healing, improving sleep, and relieving aches and pains.
Several studies have highlighted these potential benefits. For instance, a 2015 study found that CBD could be a promising treatment for various forms of anxiety, such as anxiety disorder, panic disorders, social anxiety disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Another study in 2018 found that CBD helped 15 out of 18 trials (83%) with chronic pain management.
CBD oil comes in various forms, each with unique features. The most common types you’ll find in the UK are:
CBD oil can also be found in different forms, such as topicals, gummies, and suppositories.
While CBD oil has its merits, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patches are a popular option that many menopausal women consider to manage their symptoms.
HRT patches are adhesive patches that release hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, that are absorbed into your bloodstream. These hormones then act much like the ones your body naturally produces, helping to regulate everything from your mood to your body temperature.
HRT patches are primarily used to treat symptoms of menopause, such as
HRT patches offer a way to ease these symptoms by replenishing the hormones that your body is no longer producing in sufficient amounts. They’re especially popular because they provide a steady release of hormones, unlike pills that can cause levels to spike and dip.
The benefits of using HRT patches go beyond just symptom relief. A 2019 study found that HRT significantly improved the quality of life for postmenopausal women. They’re also known for helping you sleep better, improving your mood, and even boosting your energy levels.
We can see that both CBD oil and HRT patches have their benefits for menopausal symptoms, like relieving anxiety, improving sleep, and helping with pain. But when you compare the two, which is better suited for your symptoms?
| Criteria | CBD Oil | HRT Patches |
| Legal Status in the UK | Legal if it contains less than 0.2% THC or no THC at all. | Prescription medication, legal. |
| Common Uses | Pain relief, anxiety reduction. | Hot flushes, night sweats, hormone balance. |
| Types Available | Full-spectrum, Broad-Spectrum, CBD Isolate. | Oestrogen-only patches, Combined patches. |
| Dosage | Varies. If you are a beginner when using CBD oil, start low and slow. | Varies. Consult your GP or pharmacist. |
| Interactions | Can interact with various medications, including hormones. | May interact with other medications; consult GP or pharmacist. |
| Risks | Interaction with other medications. | Increased risk of certain cancers, blood clots. |
| Consult a Doctor? | Yes, for personalised advice. | Yes, for personalised advice. |
Now that we’ve covered the basics of both CBD oil and HRT patches, the big question remains: Is it safe to combine the two?
One of the main concerns about using CBD oil and HRT patches together is the potential for interactions. While the research is still in its early stages, some studies suggest that CBD can influence the endocrine system, which is responsible for hormone production. A study produced by the Journal of Clinical Medicine suggests that CBD can interact with a variety of medications, including hormonal treatments. However, the specifics of this interaction are not yet fully understood. Therefore, it’s always best to consult your GP for personalised advice.
A 2022 survey found that nearly 80% of those surveyed who experienced menopause used cannabis-based products to ease symptoms, highlighting the growing interest in alternative treatments.
Dr Jennifer Lincoln, an OB-GYN and author, emphasised in an interview with TODAY that more research is needed on using cannabis, including CBD, for menopausal symptoms. The lack of research makes it difficult to provide definitive advice, highlighting the need for caution.
While there’s no substantial scientific evidence yet, some anecdotal reports suggest that using CBD along with HRT can offer additional benefits like enhanced pain relief or mood improvement.
Both CBD oil and HRT patches have their own recommended dosages, and mixing them may require adjustments. CBD and hormones are processed by the liver. Combining them could affect how your body metabolises these substances, leading to potential interactions. The NHS warns against using CBD oil with other medications without consulting a GP or pharmacist.
The key takeaway here is the importance of consulting your GP and staying updated with the latest research. Combining CBD oil and HRT patches is a decision that should be made carefully and based on sound medical advice.
By now, you should have a clearer idea of the complexities involved in combining CBD oil with HRT patches. While both have their unique sets of benefits, it’s crucial to understand how they might interact with each other.
The bottom line remains: always consult your GP or pharmacist for personalised advice, especially when considering combining different forms of medication or supplements. At Prym Health, we believe our premium CBD oils can ease you into your menopause journey. Once you’re ready to start, take a look at Prym Health’s extensive range. If you’re not ready for CBD oil, why not try our suppositories or patches – there’s something for everyone.