Many people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders turn to antidepressants as the standard treatment. However, there is a growing number of individuals who are using medical marijuana as an alternative or in conjunction with traditional pharmaceuticals. While the interactions between cannabis and antidepressants are not yet fully understood, new evidence is emerging on the effects of marijuana on anxiety and depression symptoms.
Medical marijuana is derived from the cannabis Sativa plant and has been used for years to alleviate symptoms linked to many medical and mental health conditions. Cannabis contains cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds responsible for the various effects users experience with use. THC and CBD are currently the most widely known and studied cannabis compounds. THC is highly psychoactive and alters brain function, consciousness, perception, moods, and behaviors while CBD has anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic indications.
Combining both compounds unlocks a synergistic phenomenon that increases the therapeutic and medicinal effects of the cannabinoids present. High THC concentrations often have limited medicinal benefits and are more suitable for recreational use while CBD-rich varieties are ideal for medicinal users. Many of the most effective medical marijuana products contain differing THC/CBD concentrations providing a broad range of treatment options.
Medical cannabis helps reduce pain, inflammation, nausea, vomiting, and relaxes muscles. Many patients rely on it to manage their moods, sleep, and stress levels to improve their mental well-being. However, its efficacy in the psychiatric world remains limited.
When used with an antidepressant, marijuana counteracts many of the medication’s side effects which is why some people with mental health disorders ultimately forgo treatment. Also, many individuals prefer cannabis as an alternative to pharmaceutical antidepressants.
The most common types of antidepressants prescribed for mood disorders include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Combining CBD with oral antidepressants increases the risk of serotonin syndrome which can be fatal. Tricyclic Antidepressants and CBD: CBD increases the level of TCAs in the body while THC dampens the efficacy of certain oral antidepressants like Cymbalta. Regular marijuana use can lead to tolerance dependence and severe depressive symptoms.
Antidepressants help regulate certain chemicals primarily serotonin in the brain that influence moods thoughts and behaviors. Although highly effective at treating mood disorders some patients are treatment-resistant. Regular antidepressant use is associated with adverse side effects ranging from nausea to more severe or dangerous interactions like stroke or dementia.
If you’re ready to add marijuana to your antidepressant treatment plan schedule an evaluation with a certified medical marijuana doctor first. It’s necessary to learn the risks and benefits specific to your situation. Certified medical cannabis physicians provide marijuana and CBD strain product formulation recommendations that can complement your antidepressant regimen to minimize side effects and save you money time helping you regain maintain a positive outcome in life.
In conclusion, while there isn’t enough scientific proof indicating otherwise regular marijuana use can lead to tolerance dependence or severe depressive symptoms when used in conjunction with certain prescription medications including antidepressants. Therefore it’s crucial that individuals consult with their healthcare providers before making any changes or additions to their current treatment regimen. Medical approval and supervision are highly advised.
