CBD (pronounced “kan-abidul”) is an abundant cannabinoid found in cannabis that does not exhibit psychoactive properties like THC.
CBD proved effective at decreasing seizure frequency for those suffering from Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes in placebo controlled trials, and side effects included fatigue, gastrointestinal distress and elevated liver test values (ALT or AST) for 27% of patients taking both CBD and valproate at once.
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive component of cannabis plant, making it increasingly popular and found in many products such as beverages, pet products, lotions and tinctures. There’s not much reliable data regarding its efficacy for most psychiatric conditions; however, Epidiolex recently received FDA approval to treat rare forms of epilepsy without producing seizure-calming sedating effects and is being researched further to see if its efficacy extends further seizure disorders.
CBD has been demonstrated to possess antianalgesic, analgesic, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, anxiolytic and antipsychotic activities as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, oral administration is very well tolerated with few side effects reported; some interactions may occur between CBD and medications that undergo metabolism via the CYP3A4 and CYP2C enzymes, but such interactions should generally not be considered clinically important.
Does CBD work?
CBD is an influential phytocannabinoid that has multiple physiological targets to which it binds and exerts analgesic, antianxiety and antipsychotic effects. Additionally, it possesses neuroprotective, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian properties; plus mood stabilizing qualities. Studies on animal subjects suggest it can also reduce symptoms associated with posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorders as well as insomnia and fibromyalgia while even helping lower cravings for tobacco and heroin use.
CBD has proven itself effective at treating two of the most serious childhood epilepsy syndromes – Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome – with Epidiolex being FDA approved as the main ingredient used to treat seizures associated with these conditions.
Search for products containing only CBD without additional ingredients that could lead to side effects or decrease its effectiveness, including THC products which may have psychotic side effects in people with mental illness or substance use disorders.
Does CBD have any side effects?
CBD has been found to exhibit antianalgesic, analgesic, antiepileptic, anxiolytic and antipsychotic properties as well as mood stabilizing properties, making it suitable for treating neuroinflammation caused by traumatic brain injuries as well as its cognitive, behavioral and sensory consequences.
As shown by allosteric effects and varied pharmacodynamic actions on other receptor systems, CBD appears to reduce CB1 activity through allosteric mechanisms and has multiple pharmacodynamic effects across various receptor systems. Furthermore, its interactions with ion channels, enzymes, and other cellular targets could modulate multiple pathways and pathways within them; however it has not been demonstrated to have psychomimetic properties nor increase blood levels of THC.
Drug interactions between lithium and medications metabolized by CYP3A or CYP2C enzymatic families such as clobazam and lamotrigine have been reported, including interactions between lithium and some antipsychotic psychiatric medications like lithium. For optimal absorption it should be taken with food for maximum effect; combination with other drugs like sedatives or antipsychotics or bipolar disorder or schizophrenia must also be avoided.
How do I take CBD?
CBD, unlike THC, does not create intoxication but instead works to promote balance and wellbeing by working with your endocannabinoid system to provide balance and equilibrium within your body.
Studies have also proven it effective at treating anxiety, menopause symptoms and insomnia – no doubt leading to its increasing popularity within wellness circles and being supported by influencers and celebrities alike.
As CBD can come in different forms – oils, tinctures, capsules, edibles and topicals – starting out with low doses and gradually increasing them is best as everyone reacts differently to CBD. Many find that taking daily capsules of CBD works well as they offer an accurate way of measuring dosage on-the-go and easy portability. When considering any product option with your healthcare provider, be sure to discuss this thoroughly as they will have all your medical history under their wing and therefore are best placed to provide advice.
