Schizophrenia impacts the way one thinks and perceives reality and can impact emotions. It can cause symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, disorganized thinking, social withdrawal, and cognitive problems. Antipsychotic medication is the primary treatment. Despite the lack of formal research, some scientists are looking into the use of cannabidiol (CBD) to center on some of the symptoms.
With the increase in the use of CBD products, many have questions about the safety and effectiveness of CBD gummies for schizophrenia. The short answer is much more complex then most ramblings on the internet will explain.
The available evidence indicates that CBD can react with the brain in ways that THC cannot, one of the primary compounds in marijuana. The evidence, at this time, is limited, and under no circumstance should CBD be a substituted for a prescribed psychiatric treatment. Some recent reviews and meta-analyses have shown benefits of CBD for some symptoms; however, most studies show no significant change to symptoms when using CBD.
As epitomized by these studies, this article reviews the available science on CBD gummies and schizophrenia, and the potential benefits, risks and safety concerns, and what patients need to know before using CBD.
Understanding CBD and the Endocannabinoid System
CBD or Cannabidiol is a component of cannabis and hemp. It will not create the intoxication that THC, and other products, produce.
The endocannabinoid system is a self-regulating system within the body that deals with mental and physical health. Researchers are studying how CBD may help manage the system's regulation of:
- Mood
- Stress response
- Sleep
- Memory
- Inflammation
- Neurological function
A self-regulating brain signaling system makes researchers curious to explore whether CBD may manage certain pathways linked to psychosis.
It's important to note that the way THC and CBD affect the brain differ. Although high THC cannabis has been linked to the onset and exacerbation of psychotic symptoms in some users, THC has been studied as an antipsychotic.
Why Researchers Are Interested in CBD for Schizophrenia
Although many schizophrenia patients receive treatment, they may continue to have symptoms. Another issue with some treatments is side effects. Traditional treatment antipsychotics cause an array of side effects including:
- Weight gain
- Metabolic changes
- Drowsiness
- Movement disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
CBD has shown promise in influencing key neurotransmitter systems differently from traditional antipsychotics.
Some of the potential positive symptoms of schizophrenia CBD may help with include:
- Positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions
- Improving emotional well-being
- Balanced sleep
- Anxiety associated with schizophrenia
- Offering a potentially favorable side-effect profile
Just because some researchers are interested in CBD, doesn't mean the potential for CBD to help manage schizophrenia has been confirmed.
What Clinical Studies Have Found So Far
Evidence regarding the use of CBD for schizophrenia and psychosis is mixed.
A few controlled studies showed positive results after using CBD with antipsychotic medications to treat psychotic symptoms. One randomized controlled trial indicated that patients in the CBD group experienced a reduction in positive symptoms compared to placebo.
Some studies have not found substantial improvements related to symptoms, and others found evidence that “current data” are “insufficient” to determine the efficacy of CBD for the treatment of schizophrenia. As of now, experts “generally” agree that “more high-quality” studies are needed. Presently, researchers are investigating various possible benefits.
Key studies have shown
- Small sample sizes
- Short study durations
- Different CBD dosages
- Variations in patient populations
- Limited long-term safety data
As a result, experts generally agree that more high-quality research is needed before firm conclusions can be made.
Potential Benefits Being Studied
People with positive symptoms have hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking. CBD, used in conjunction with common medications, may help lessen symptoms.
Conservation of Quality of Life
CBD helps alleviate anxiety and may help improve quality of life.
Better Sleep Quality
Schizophrenia causes sleep disturbances. Some CBD users report improved sleep.
Favorable Side Effects Profile
CBD has been shown to have fewer severe adverse effects.
That said,
Some CBD gummies have benefits, but they also have drawbacks.
Drawing from studies, CBD gummies may cause:
- Excessive sleepiness
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Changes in appetite
- Diarrhea
CBD may also have negative effects with other medications by changes in liver enzymes.
Schizophrenia patients have every reason to worry when they see evidence-based treatment methods be delayed or completely replaced with unproven ones.
Licensed therapists warn against using CBD as a substitute for conventional therapy.
What's the difference between CBD gummies and CBD oil?
CBD gummies and CBD oil have the same primary component but differ when it comes to delivery methods.
CBD Gummies
Pros
- Convenience
- No measurment
- Good taste
- Daily use is made easy
Cons
- Slower to take effect
- Lower bioavailability
- More restrictive in terms of dosage
CBD Oil
Pros
- High bioavailability
- Easy to adjust dosage
- Higher bioavailability
Cons
- Rough taste
- Requires measurment
For schizophrenia research, most clinical trials have used pharmaceutical CBD over commercial CBD gummies.
When considering CBD products, great care should be taken.
Look for products that have:
- Third party testing
- Cannabinoid tests
- Confirmed CBD
- No impurities
- No false claims (e.g. “Cures schizophrenia”. “Replaces antipsychotic medications”. “Guaranteed results”) should be made.
Currently, there is no supporting evidence.
The Final Word
Of the many cannabinoids, CBD is one of the more researched ones and is worth looking into when it comes to mental health disorders like schizophrenia. Some studies have shown possible benefits in managing certain symptoms when standard therapy is maintained. Currently there is not enough strong evidence to support the use of CBD gummies as the primary therapy for schizophrenia.
CBD is still an area of research and should not be considered a proven therapy. If you are considering taking CBD gummies, especially when taking psychiatric medications, you need to consult with your primary care doctor.
The most evidence based approach still is sticking to your treatment plan until new research comes out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CBD help mental illness?
CBD has exhibited some positive effects in anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia studies. More studies are needed because the effects of CBD are unclear. It is not meant to replace treatment.
Do CBD products have anti-psychotic effects?
Right now, CBD is not considered an anti-psychotic. Studies have been done on the effects of CBD with anti-psychotic effects. However, there is no solid evidence.
Can CBD gummies cure schizophrenia?
CBD gummies do not cure schizophrenia. Treatment that is proven is still needed for management of Schizophrenia.
Can people with schizophrenia use CBD?
CBD use under a doctor's supervision is OK for some schizophrenia patients, but potential benefits and unwanted side effects have to be weighed along with all other medications being taken.
Is THC the same as CBD for schizophrenia?
CBD and THC have completely different effects. THC may have a negative effect on some psychotic patients, and CBD has been studied for therapeutic effects.