Benzodiazepines Interactions

THC (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis) and benzodiazepines both depress the central nervous system, so combining them adds up to stronger sedation, impaired coordination, memory problems, and slowed breathing. Cannabinoids, especially CBD, can also inhibit the liver enzyme CYP3A4 that clears several benzodiazepines, raising and prolonging their levels.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) appears to act on the same GABA-A receptor system as benzodiazepines, so taking the two together may add to the sedative effect. The human evidence is largely theoretical and case-level, but the plausible result is extra drowsiness, slower reaction time, and more next-day grogginess.