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CBD patch for pain

CBD Patch for Pain: All You Must Know

November 2, 2021

Many people are beginning to notice the potential benefits of using cannabis for health conditions. Those with aching muscles, joints, and limbs can try a CBD patch for pain to alleviate their symptoms. 

Transdermal CBD patches are an innovative method of harnessing the healing properties of cannabis. There are several types of patches, each designed with specific conditions in mind. Below, we’ll highlight the various uses of CBD patches for pain. We’ll also discuss how these work, give tips on usage, and mention some benefits and drawbacks. 

Let's get started with a detailed definition. 

CBD patch
CBD patch

What are CBD transdermal patches?

Transdermal CBD patches are adhesive products similar to Band-Aids. They contain a measured dose of cannabidiol (CBD) and other ingredients. 

Many people use them to treat pain or inflammation. Patients can apply their CBD patch directly to the skin above the affected area. 

There are various types of CBD pain patches available, and they come in different-sized packaging. Some are designed to offer patients immediate relief, while others have a slower, more controlled release. 

Check out the different CBD transdermal patches and how they work:

Type of transdermal patchHow it works
Single-layer adhesiveThe medication is infused in the adhesive layer, which makes direct contact with the skin. 
Multi-layer adhesiveThe medicine is infused in multiple (usually two) parts. The first is in the adhesive layer for a quick release, and the rest is intended for a slow release. 
A membrane usually separates the layers.
Vapor patchesAs the name implies, these patches release vapor. They're sometimes infused with essential oils.
The adhesive layer is also the medicated part.
Matrix systemThese patches typically have a semi-solid polymer matrix attached to the adhesive part. 
The matrix contains the medication and releases it slowly to the sticky outer layer.
Reservoir systemReservoir patches deliver the most consistent doses over extended periods. They feature a reservoir that contains the medicine in a gel-like solution. 
It releases the drug at a controlled rate through the semipermeable membrane.  

CBD patches for pain are commonly designed using the matrix or reservoir systems because of their slow, consistent releases.

What are CBD patches used for?

A CBD patch for pain has multiple applications. The cannabidiol these adhesives contain is helpful with various conditions ranging from inflammation issues to seizures. 

Patients primarily turn to the CBD patch for fibromyalgia, anxiety, and back pain. 

CBD patches for anxiety 

Many medicinal marijuana users report that cannabis has a positive impact on their mental health. 

These claims stem from data that shows how cannabidiol impacts the brain's CB1 receptors. The compound then affects your serotonin levels which balance your mood.

CBD patches for anxiety give medical weed users an additional option for ingesting CBD. They're easy to apply, and you can accurately measure your dosage according to each adhesive.

Cannabidiol is released through the sticky part, and the user's skin absorbs it. CBD patches for anxiety typically contain other natural stress-relieving ingredients like ashwagandha.

Do CBD patches work for back pain?

Utilizing a CBD patch for pain isn't limited to one body part. You can apply it to any smooth skin surface. Fortunately, your back is one such area. 

Apply the adhesive to the section of your back that hurts, and you'll soon feel the effects of the topical delivery of CBD. The targeted area absorbs the compound, and more of the substance reaches the bloodstream than when consumed orally. 

Transdermal CBD is useful for quickly reducing inflammation and relieving pain. The compound also encourages muscle relaxation, which further facilitates the healing of the affected area. 

Can you use a CBD patch for fibromyalgia? 

Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that's usually approved for medicinal marijuana in stricter states. It's a complex health issue with a wide range of symptoms. 

Having a CBD patch for fibromyalgia available offers patients an alternative to smoking, which impacts the lungs. It's also a more discreet and convenient option. 

Some medical users who struggle with this condition choose to ingest cannabis through edibles but find that dosages aren't always consistent. Using a CBD patch for fibromyalgia eliminates this issue.

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

  • Muscle and joint stiffness
  • Spasms 
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • General pain
  • Anxiety

Many people who struggle with fibromyalgia use CBD patches for pain relief and get the spillover benefits of cannabidiol for the other symptoms

Transdermal CBD patch
Transdermal CBD patch

How do transdermal CBD patches work? 

A CBD patch for pain delivers the compound to your skin through the adhesive layer. Similar to nicotine and other patches, the skin absorbs the substance in the area nearest to the adhesive. The design of transdermal CBD patches allows for direct absorption into the bloodstream.

Most products contain permeation enhancers, which encourage CBD molecules to disperse from the adhesive to the skin. They also help the substance bypass the epidermis and enter the body.

CBD patches for pain relief work quickly compared to other ingestion methods. Options like CBD edibles still need to go through the digestive system before they can target the aching areas. Direct absorption from a CBD patch for pain increases the bioavailability of cannabidiol. It delivers consistent doses because the membrane offers a rate-controlled release. 

The effects of CBD pain patches also last longer than other topical products like cannabis-infused lotions, which you may need to reapply after a couple of hours.

Transdermal CBD patches benefits and drawbacks 

Transdermal CBD patches have many advantages, but there are certain drawbacks too. The benefits of this delivery method outweigh the disadvantages, but both need to be discussed so users can make an informed decision based on their personal needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of transdermal CBD patches:

Advantages of transdermal patches

Disadvantages of transdermal patches

Discretion. CBD patches for pain are discreet and can easily be hidden under clothing.

Potential skin irritations. Some users have sensitive skin, and if sweat gets trapped beneath the patch, it may irritate the skin. The glue in the patch, as well as other ingredients, may also cause irritations.

Safe ingestion. Unlike smoking, using adhesives doesn't have adverse effects on your health.

Potential interactions with other medications. If you’re using a CBD patch for pain in conjunction with other medication, it can inhibit the liver’s ability to break down your prescription medication. 

Accurate doses. Each patch has an identical dose of CBD. 

Headaches. Sensitive users may experience headaches if the dosage is too high.

Easy application. It's quick and easy to apply a CBD patch for pain.

Irritable bowels. Irritable bowels and diarrhea are rare side effects associated with CBD in general.

Convenience. They come in packs with multiple patches, and you can easily travel with them or store them.

Fatigue. The properties in CBD affect each person differently. Some may experience fatigue as a side effect.

Fast absorption. The CBD is directly absorbed into the bloodstream.

Drowsiness. If you’re not used to CBD and the dose is too high, you can get drowsy.

Long-lasting effects. CBD patches for pain have a slow release and last for several hours. 

Changes in weight. Depending on your metabolism, CBD can cause weight fluctuations.

Localized pain relief. It's absorbed at the site of pain.

 

Localized anti-inflammatory properties. It's applied directly to the region that's inflamed.

Higher bioavailability. Patients enjoy the full benefits of CBD with patches because none of it is lost through the respiratory or digestive system.

No psychoactive effects. When you smoke marijuana for medical purposes, you still expose your lungs to THC, which has psychoactive effects.CBD patches for pain contain less than 0.3% THC and don't induce these sensations.

Should you use CBD pain patches or CBD oil? 

When it comes to deciding which application method is best, it usually boils down to personal preference. CBD oil stars as a firm favorite due to its versatility. 

You can consume it sublingually or in capsules. There are also pre-packed vape oils in this product range. Compared to using a CBD pain patch, the main drawback of this method is that oil isn’t absorbed directly into the bloodstream.

If you consume it, the compound first has to make its way through your digestive system. Vaping hurts the lungs, but the effects are faster. You can opt to use oils instead of transdermal CBD if you have a skin problem that makes patches uncomfortable. It's the only adverse effect unique to adhesives

All the other potential drawbacks are related to CBD directly and also apply to oil.

How to use CBD transdermal patches? 

Using CBD patches for pain is straightforward. All you need to do is unwrap it from the packaging, remove the backing paper, and apply it to an area of skin where it can get plenty of contact

It may be difficult to apply to bony, irregularly shaped parts, but the compound will be absorbed, and surrounding areas will benefit too. Once you've stuck the CBD patch for pain, you don't need to do anything else. Leave it in place for a couple of hours, and it will reduce your pain. 

Users typically apply the patch to the following areas: 

  • Back 
  • Wrists
  • Neck 
  • Thighs
  • Biceps 
  • Shoulders 
  • Ankles

How quickly do CBD patches work? 

CBD patches for pain don't work instantly. They can take up to 30 minutes to be absorbed by the bloodstream but may last as long as 12 hours. The onset may be slow, but the relief is long-lasting. 

CBD patches for pain: are there any side effects? 

The side effects of using CBD patches for pain are similar to any other cannabidiol product. Common issues include:

  • Sleepiness 
  • Drowsiness 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Weight fluctuations 
  • Changes in appetite
  • Liver issues
  • Skin reactions

Those using a CBD patch for pain for the first time should exercise caution until they determine their sensitivity to the product. They should also avoid driving and operating heavy machinery

FAQs

We've highlighted some of the essential information regarding CBD transdermal patches, but some questions may remain. Below, we discuss some of the more commonly asked ones.

Where is the best place to put CBD patches on my body?

You need to apply a CBD patch for pain on a soft, smooth area as close as possible to the affected region.

It might be difficult to stick to bony, uneven body parts like elbows and knees. Sticking the patch close to this region will still have beneficial effects. 

What should you avoid when applying CBD transdermal patches?

Don't apply CBD transdermal patches to open wounds or burns. You also shouldn't use it before consulting a health professional.  

Can I shower with a CBD transdermal patch?

Yes, a CBD patch for pain sticks quite well and won't come off when exposed to water. It's best to avoid vigorously rubbing the area as it might loosen it. 

Can CBD patches cause headaches?

Yes, they can. Headaches are an unfortunate side effect of CBD in sensitive users. Reducing the dose might help you overcome this problem.

Do CBD patches help sleep? 

Yes, CBD is often used for treating insomnia. A patch is just another way of ingesting it. 

The CBD pain patch: make it stick

CBD pain patches offer medicinal users a convenient way of ingesting cannabidiol. Its uses vary from general aches and pains to anxiety and fibromyalgia.

It's easy to apply and has long-lasting effects. It offers a wide range of benefits in comparison to alternative products. Transdermal CBD patches allow the compound to bypass both the respiratory and digestive systems and get into the bloodstream.

The advantages of using this adhesive product outweigh any potential drawbacks. It can be applied to almost any body part and won't fall off easily. It's a great option for new medicinal users.

Speak to your doctor about trying a CBD patch for pain, and stay tuned to the Homegrown Cannabis Co blog for the latest updates on CBD products.

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