Marijuana is a popular recreational drug known for its ability to produce feelings of relaxation and euphoria. While it benefits those looking to destress or enjoy its effects, others turn to it for more serious reasons.
For example, people suffering from depression may turn to marijuana as an alternative or concurrent treatment, along with antidepressants. Given the “seemingly” similar effects of these substances, this raises two questions:
- Are cannabis and antidepressants a perfect pairing?
- Or do their combination pose adverse health risks that jeopardize users with depression?
That is what Medwell Health and Wellness aims to uncover in this article. Stay tuned as we explore the science behind cannabis and prescription antidepressants.
How Does Cannabis Interact with Antidepressants?
As of 2023, marijuana has been legalized for medicinal use in 38 states. This shows that more Americans are beginning to see and embrace the growing popularity of cannabis for users within their state.
However, studies on cannabis remain relatively elusive to this day, with most research focused more on anecdotal reports. On the other hand, prescription antidepressants sit on many studies, having undergone rigorous testing before commercialization. Newer studies referenced in this article show there are most certainly benefits for patients suffering from depression.
Documentation on their combination has been limited; historically, medical professionals presumed that psychoactive drugs and psychotropic medication could result in adverse effects. A new study performed at the University of Connecticut say the lack of report data is why these early presumptions are inaccurate, such as patients experiencing relief while using cannabis in conjunction with prescription medications may feel reluctant to disclose their cannabis use for fear of stigmatization.
In addition, researchers studied the impact of marijuana on antidepressant treatment in adolescents. The researchers found that CBD and THC increase the concentration of antidepressants like sertraline and es/citalopram. This indicates that combining prescription antidepressants with cannabis provides additional depression symptom relief.
Cannabis-Antidepressant Interactions
CBD and THC increase the concentration of certain antidepressants. That means patients suffering from depression may need a lesser dosage of their antidepressants. This combination helps patients in three ways:
- By spending less on antidepressants, they will have more financial freedom
- Less antidepressant intake frees them from antidepressant-specific side effects like feeling agitated, shaky, anxious, dizzy, nauseous, blurred vision, and low libido
- Side effects of co-administration of cannabis and antidepressants can be minimized with an optimal dosage mix
Ultimately, the researchers did not advise against using medical marijuana for depression. They recommended that users consult their physicians about combining cannabis dosage with their existing medications.
Can Marijuana Replace Antidepressants?
Given the limited number of peer-reviewed studies, it’s unclear whether marijuana can completely replace current depression medications. What recent studies are showing is that when used in addition to prescribed antidepressants, it strengthens the relief when they are combined. Simply stated, marijuana has properties that improve symptoms of depression.
Research on post-partum depression has shown cannabis to stimulate the following among new mothers:
- Positive mood
- Relieve Anxiety
- Regulate sleep
- Ease nausea
- Reduce vomiting.
In another study conducted by Yale, the researchers found cannabis to provide immediate relief to symptoms of depression. The effects vary depending on the plant’s strain and chemotypic properties.
The many recent studies and testimonies from users, marijuana shows promise in its anti-depressive properties.
What’s the Best Step Forward?
As of now, the clearest findings on the cannabis-antidepressant interaction are:
- Cannabinoids improve the concentration of some antidepressant compounds
- Cannabis use with Anti-Depression Medication can provide relief faster
All patients react differently to medications. Medical professionals can guide you through the process, adjusting the required dosage to meet your needs. During your cannabis certification, you must inform your physician if you are on antidepressants.
So, are cannabis and antidepressants a perfect pairing? Recent studies cited here point to Medical Marijuana becoming a more utilized tool to reduce depression symptoms.
If you reside in Massachusetts or Florida and are looking for medical marijuana certification, we can help. Click here to schedule your medical marijuana certification.
Aaron Bloom serves as the CEO, overseeing the mission and growth of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers. Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives comes from his background in health care. For more than 20 years, Aaron owned, operated, and represented traditional healthcare organizations. This experience created a passion for finding improved ways to relieve suffering. His goal as CEO is to work daily to relieve all patients who seek better health and wellness through the medicinal benefits of medical cannabis and evidence-based alternative medicines.
