CBD has a high chance of reducing the effectiveness of certain medications, especially when they are mixed together. One such medication is antidepressants. The interaction between CBD and liver enzymes reduces the absorption of these medications. In this article, we will conduct a side-by-side comparison between CBD and antidepressants.

Overview of Antidepressants

Antidepressants are a class of medications primarily used to treat depressive disorders and related conditions. They work by influencing neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

Common types of antidepressants

1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs primarily increase serotonin levels by blocking its reabsorption, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. Examples includes Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), Escitalopram (Lexapro).
2. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): SNRIs increase both serotonin and norepinephrine levels, offering a dual mechanism for treating depression and certain anxiety disorders. Examples includes Venlafaxine (Effexor), Duloxetine (Cymbalta).
3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): TCAs affect multiple neurotransmitters and are often reserved for cases where SSRIs and SNRIs are ineffective due to their side effects. Examples include Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline.
4. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): MAOIs block the action of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters. They are used less frequently due to dietary restrictions and potential interactions. Examples include Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine.
5. Atypical Antidepressants: These medications have unique mechanisms of action. Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor, while Mirtazapine affects serotonin and norepinephrine differently. Examples include Bupropion (Wellbutrin), Mirtazapine (Remeron).
6. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): In severe cases where medications are ineffective, ECT may be considered. It involves brief electrical stimulation of the brain to induce a seizure, leading to changes in brain chemistry.

CBD vs. antidepressants

Combining CBD and antidepressants should be approached with caution since CBD may reduce the absorption of these medications. While CBD is generally well-tolerated by many people, interactions with certain medications, including antidepressants, may occur.

If you are planning to mix antidepressants with CBD, here are some important factors to consider.

1. Interaction Potential: CBD is known to interact with the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver, which is involved in the metabolism of many medications, including some antidepressants. This interaction could affect the levels of these medications in the bloodstream.
2. Serotonin Syndrome Risk: Some antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), increase serotonin levels in the brain. Combining them with CBD, which can also influence serotonin receptors, may theoretically increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially serious condition characterized by excessive serotonin activity.
3. Individual Variability: Responses to CBD and antidepressants can vary among individuals. Factors such as the specific antidepressant, its dosage, the form of CBD used, and individual physiology can all influence the outcome.
4. Choosing CBD Products: If using CBD alongside antidepressants, it's advisable to choose high-quality CBD products and be aware of their composition. Full-spectrum CBD products contain a range of cannabinoids, which might have a different impact compared to CBD isolates.

CBD vs. antidepressants which is better?

The choice between CBD and antidepressants depends on individual factors, the nature of the depressive disorder, and personal responses to treatment. Both CBD and antidepressants have their advantages and considerations:

Advantages of CBD for depression

1. Natural Approach: CBD is derived from the cannabis plant and is often perceived as a more natural option compared to pharmaceuticals.
2. Potential for Fewer Side Effects: CBD is generally well-tolerated, and many people report fewer side effects compared to traditional antidepressants.
3. Anxiolytic Properties: CBD may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties, which can be beneficial for individuals with depression and anxiety.
4. Non-Addictive: CBD is not known to be addictive, and there is a lower risk of dependence.

Advantages of antidepressant medications for depression

1. Established Efficacy: Antidepressants have been extensively studied and are known to be effective for various depressive disorders.
2. Diverse Options: Different classes of antidepressants are available, allowing for tailored treatment based on the specific needs of the individual.
3. Professional Guidance: Prescribing and adjusting antidepressant medications is typically done under the supervision of a healthcare professional, ensuring a structured and monitored approach.

Frequently asked questions

Want to Learn More?

1. Nesas Hemp—the first to receive the Exclusive Tested Safe Seal.
2. How To Boost Your Mood In Six Quick Ways
3. CBD for Gut Health
4. Why Flavored CBD Is Low Quality
5. What Is Ayurveda, And Is It For Me?

Sources

Balachandran, P., Elsohly, M., & Hill, K. P. (2021). Cannabidiol Interactions with Medications, Illicit Substances, and Alcohol: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 36(7), 2074-2084. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-020-06504-8

Wieckiewicz, G., Stokłosa, I., Stokłosa, M., Gorczyca, P., & Pudlo, R. (2022). Cannabidiol (CBD) in the Self-Treatment of Depression-Exploratory Study and a New Phenomenon of Concern for Psychiatrists. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.837946

García-Gutiérrez MS, Navarrete F, Gasparyan A, Austrich-Olivares A, Sala F, Manzanares J. Cannabidiol: A Potential New Alternative for the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Psychotic Disorders. Biomolecules. 2020 Nov 19;10(11):1575. doi: 10.3390/biom10111575. PMID: 33228239; PMCID: PMC7699613.

Martin, E. L., Strickland, J. C., Schlienz, N. J., Munson, J., Jackson, H., O., M., & Vandrey, R. (2021). Antidepressant and Anxiolytic Effects of Medicinal Cannabis Use in an Observational Trial. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 729800. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.729800

Silote, G. P., Sartim, A., Sales, A., Eskelund, A., Guimarães, F., Wegener, G., & Joca, S. (2019). Emerging evidence for the antidepressant effect of cannabidiol and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy, 98, 104-116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jchemneu.2019.04.006