Does CBD Help Against OCD?

by Team Inc.

2020-12-18-Helps CBD against OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – also called obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – is a mental illness that causes repetitive behavior and intrusive, compulsive thoughts. The only drugs are serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), but does CBD also affect this disorder?

About a third of people with OCD experience no significant reduction in symptoms after undergoing regular treatments. SRIs take about 6 weeks to have a clinically significant effect. Many people anecdotally claim that cannabidiol (CBD) products help relieve their OCD symptoms, and researchers continue to explore the potential of CBD to treat OCD.

While the research is still in its infancy, some studies have shown promising results. In this article, we take a look at the latest research on the potential of CBD to treat OCD. We also cover possible side effects.

Can CBD relieve the symptoms of OCD?

Currently, CBD's ability to relieve OCD symptoms is largely theoretical and anecdotal. That's because there is a very limited amount of research on the effectiveness of CBD for people with OCD. A handful of case reports describe people with OCD who experienced improved symptoms after treatment with CBD or other cannabinoids. But more large-scale clinical trials are needed to assess the effectiveness and safety of CBD.

In a 2020 study, researchers examined the effects of medical cannabis on a group of 87 patients with OCD. The researchers discovered:

  • 60 percent reduction in compulsions;
  • 49 percent reduction in intrusive thoughts;
  • 52 percent reduction in anxiety;
  • Cannabis with higher doses of CBD resulted in a greater reduction in compulsive behavior.

However, in another small study from 2020 with just 14 participants, researchers compared the effects of cannabis containing different concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD with a placebo. They found that smoking cannabis containing mostly CBD or mostly THC had little acute impact on OCD symptoms.

How could CBD help with OCD symptoms?

CBD is one of more than 80 biologically active compounds found in the cannabis plant. THC is the primary psychoactive substance that makes you 'high'. CBD is not psychoactive but has a number of effects on the body, including pain relief and possibly the reduction of anxiety and depression.

The cause of OCD is believed to be due to various factors, but there is a growing body of evidence that the body's endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating anxiety and repetitive behavior. the endocannabinoid system is a pathway of receptors in the body that play a role in regulating sleep, mood, appetite and other processes. CBD can cause a change in these processes. Researchers really are still not sure exactly how CBD affects this important system.

Best form of CBD for OCD

CBD comes in many forms, including oils, tinctures, patches, and gummies. There is no evidence that one form is more effective than another. It is likely that the amount of CBD per serving is more important than the form. While CBD can be beneficial on its own, some studies suggest that taking CBD along with THC and other chemicals found in cannabis can terpenen called, can enhance its benefits. This phenomenon is often referred to as the 'entourage effect'.

How Much CBD Do You Take To Relieve OCD Symptoms?

Since CBD is not approved by the FDA to treat OCD and it is not clear how effective it is, there is no standard dose. A 2015 review found strong evidence that 300 to 600 milligrams of CBD taken orally reduces anxiety symptoms. It is plausible that a similar dose could be effective in the treatment of OCD, but more research is needed to confirm this.

It's best to start with a small dose of CBD and build it up over time as you learn how your body reacts to it. Some people choose to start with a dose of about 40 milligrams per day.

Are there any side effects to watch out for when using CBD for OCD?

CBD is generally well tolerated, but it can cause some side effects, such as:

  • diarrhea
  • fatigue
  • changes in appetite
  • dry mouth

Always consult a doctor before starting with CBD, as it can react to a number of medications that you may also use. If the package insert on the medication says you should avoid grapefruit, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Both grapefruit and CBD have the potential to inhibit the enzyme CYP3A4 that is responsible for breaking down many types of drugs. When this enzyme is inhibited, the rate at which your medication is broken down slows, possibly amplifying its effects or side effects. Drugs used to treat anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders are among a long list of drugs that can interact with grapefruit or CBD.

Read more healthline.com (Source, EN)

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