Glossary
CYP450
Family of liver enzymes that metabolise many drugs, including cannabinoids — source of many clinically relevant interactions.
Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) is a family of hepatic enzymes responsible for metabolising a large proportion of prescription medicines. Both THC and CBD affect several CYP450 isoforms — especially CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 — which is why cannabinoid co-prescribing requires careful review of concomitant medications. Warfarin (CYP2C9), clobazam (CYP2C19), tacrolimus (CYP3A4), and many antidepressants are examples where dose review and monitoring are clinically relevant.
Related terms
- CYP2C9CYP450 isoform that metabolises warfarin and NSAIDs; inhibited by CBD and THC.
- CYP3A4Most abundant hepatic CYP450 isoform; affected by both THC and CBD.
- THC (Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol)The principal psychoactive cannabinoid in the cannabis plant.
- CBD (cannabidiol)Non-psychoactive cannabinoid with established use in some seizure disorders and emerging use in anxiety.