Anxiety Article

Use of cannabidiol in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders

Source: 
https://www.sciencedirect.com

Link: 
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S154431911930514X

Article Summary:
The systematic review evaluated existing literature up to June 2019 regarding the safety and efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) in managing anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Eight studies were included, comprising small randomized controlled trials, a case series, and a case report. These studies explored CBD’s effects on anxiety in conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and posttraumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). CBD was administered orally as capsules or sublingual sprays, either alone or alongside conventional therapies, with doses ranging widely from 6 mg to 400 mg per dose.  Overall, CBD demonstrated promise as an alternative therapy for anxiety disorders, showing improved clinical outcomes across various anxiety assessment scales in the studies reviewed. It was generally well-tolerated, with fatigue and sedation being the most commonly reported adverse effects. However, the review highlighted the need for more studies employing standardized dosing strategies and outcome measurements to establish optimal CBD dosages and its definitive role in anxiety treatment protocols. Further research is essential to clarify long-term safety, efficacy, and regulatory considerations associated with CBD use in clinical practice.