Medical Cannabis Against Depression

Medical cannabis has been found to have potential therapeutic benefits for treating depression. Cannabis contains chemical compounds called cannabinoids, which can interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex biological system that regulates various functions in the body, including mood, stress response, and emotional regulation.

Some studies suggest that the cannabinoids found in cannabis, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), may help alleviate symptoms of depression by interacting with the ECS. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a feeling of euphoria, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties.

Research has shown that THC may increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which can help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. CBD has been found to have anxiolytic and anti-depressant effects, and it may also enhance the activity of serotonin receptors in the brain.

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis Against Depression?

The University at Buffalo investigated the use of medical cannabis as a potential treatment for depression induced by chronic stress in 2015. Specifically, the Research Institute on Addictions (RIA) at the university examined endocannabinoids, natural chemical compounds that contribute to motor control, cognition, emotions, and behaviour, and have a similar chemical structure to cannabis.

Although the studies have only been conducted on animals, the researchers observed that chronic stress may reduce the brain's production of endocannabinoids, potentially leading to behaviour similar to depression. The introduction of cannabis into the system could help restore normal endocannabinoid levels and function, which may alleviate symptoms of depression.

A 2021 study found that people with clinical depression who use medical cannabis report lower depression scores than those who do not use cannabis. The study, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, also found that study participants who started using medicinal cannabis during the follow-up period experienced a reduction in both depression and anxiety symptoms. While traditional antidepressants work for many people, they do not work for everyone and may have unpleasant side effects. Cannabis products, especially those high in CBD, may help alleviate symptoms of depression, improve sleep, and increase the quality of life, according to the study's lead author.

Does cannabis for depression have side effects?

The side effects of using medical cannabis for pain, palliative, and cancer care can vary depending on the individual, the method of use, the dosage, and the type of cannabis used. 

It can range from Psychotropic effects like euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion to cognitive ones including issues related to memory, attention, and reaction time. Besides, smoking or inhaling cannabis can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and bronchitis. This can be a concern for patients with preexisting lung conditions.

Cannabis can also cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Key takeaways

• Medical cannabis has potential therapeutic benefits for treating depression due to its cannabinoids' interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system.

• THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, may increase levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which can help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

• CBD, the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, has anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties and has been found to have anxiolytic and anti-depressant effects, which may enhance the activity of serotonin receptors in the brain.

Please note: It's important to note that the use of medical cannabis for depression is still a relatively new field of research, and more studies are needed to fully understand its effectiveness and potential risks. It's also important to speak with a qualified healthcare professional before using medical cannabis for depression, as it may interact with other medications or have adverse effects on certain individuals.