CBD Oil and Sertraline

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of approximately 110 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD interacts with the body and brain's cannabinoid receptors through the endocannabinoid system, which is the system that helps regulate functions including pain, memory, appetite, and mood.

Sertraline, on the other hand, is a drug used to treat individuals with depressive disorder, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although both can manage stress and stress-related disorders, you should be aware of their interactions and potential side effects.

We'll explain the differences between Sertraline and CBD in this article and any potential interactions.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a cannabis-derived substance. It belongs to the family of chemicals known as cannabinoids, which are found naturally in hemp plants. There are now 113 identified cannabinoids, each of which has a role in the endocannabinoid system. Unlike THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not have any psychological effects since the THC level is so low (less than 0.2%).

CBD has several known health benefits, including stress and anxiety relief, the reduction of inflammation and chronic pain, and sleep disorder management, among others.

How does CBD work?

Learning the functions of your endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the first step in understanding CBD. The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of enzymes, lipids, and receptors found in all mammals. Our ECS is mostly in charge of establishing and maintaining homeostasis (balance) in the body. 

Cannabis is known to bind to two distinct receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the brain, working together with the ECS to produce a variety of beneficial effects on mood, appetite, pain and inflammation, memory, and the immune system. However, other researchers believe that CBD indirectly affects the receptor rather than directly attaching to it. Many of the health benefits that people associate with the compound are achieved by activating these receptors.

CBD can also affect non-cannabinoid receptors. According to Teaera Roland of Lotus Health, CBD affects the serotonin receptor (5HT), which can address psychotic conditions. Additionally, it can influence the TRPV1 receptor, which is responsible for pain and inflammation.

Benefits of CBD Oil

Here's a closer look at some of the health benefits of CBD. 

• Reduces Epilepsy 
• Could Help with Depression and Anxiety Symptoms
• Reduces Inflammation 
• Could Provide Pain Relief 
• May Reduce Neuropathy-Related Nerve Pain 
• Can Fight Addiction 
• Can Promote Healthy Skin 
• Can Be Useful for Arthritis 
• Aid in Lupus Treatment 
• Maintains Brain Health 
• Can Improve Your Mood 
• Can Improve Heart Health 
• May Reduce Blood Pressure 
• Helps with Digestion
• Reduces the Risk of Bone Disease and Broken Bones

Although CBD products have gained in popularity recently, there is still limited studies on humans, and more study is required. 

CBD Oil for Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are common mental health conditions that can have long-term implications for a person's health, social life, work abilities, and general well-being. Healthcare professionals may prescribe prescription medicines to help manage these conditions but many of these prescription medications may cause significant side effects, such as mood swings, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction. 

Initial research on CBD as a remedy for anxiety and depression has shown promise, and in some people, it may have fewer negative effects. 

According to a study, ​​CBD's potential benefits for depression and anxiety are linked to its positive effect on serotonin receptors in the brain. While CBD doesn't always increase serotonin levels, it may alter how the brain's chemical receptors respond to the serotonin that is already present in your body.

According to the authors of a 2014 review, findings from various research suggest that CBD acts as an antidepressant and antianxiety compound in animal models with depression. 

A 2018 review also mentioned that many studies have shown CBD's antidepressant and anti-stress effects in animal models.

Is CBD safe?

CBD is generally well-tolerated by most people. However, further research is required to learn more about CBD's potential advantages and safety. 

Currently, the only CBD product approved by the Food and Drug Administration is Epidiolex, a prescription oil. It is authorised to treat two different forms of epilepsy. 

You should see your doctor or another healthcare provider if you're thinking about taking CBD oil to be sure it's safe and acceptable for you to do so.

Are there any side effects?

CBD also carries some minor side effects. Although it's frequently well-tolerated, CBD can have adverse effects including the following:

• Dry mouth
• Gastrointestinal issues (diarrhoea)
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness
• Nausea

Additionally, CBD may interfere with other drugs you're taking, including blood thinners. Always seek medical advice before ingesting any CBD products to prevent negative adverse effects.

CBD and other drugs

CBD has the potential to interact with a wide range of over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and prescription medicines. Many additional factors, such as the amount of CBD, the dose of another medication, and a person's underlying health condition, influence the outcome of drug interactions.

A general rule of thumb that might assist help consumers in the meantime is to stay away from CBD if your drugs have a grapefruit warning on the label. This warning advises users not to consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking the medication. Consuming grapefruit while taking one of these drugs might result in a greater concentration of the drug in the bloodstream, harmful side effects, or even an overdose.

What is Sertraline?

Sertraline, commonly known as Zoloft, is a drug used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Additionally, it is used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder symptoms like mood swings, agitation, bloating, and breast tenderness. 

Sertraline belongs to a group of antidepressant medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It functions by raising serotonin levels, a naturally occurring chemical in the brain that aids in maintaining mental balance.

How does Sertraline work?

Sertraline works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter that improves mood. It has fewer adverse side effects than other antidepressants and helps in the recovery of many individuals with depression. 

Sertraline is only available with a prescription and is available in tablet form. Since it is a prescription drug, you will need to consult your doctor and get a prescription before using it to treat depression, anxiety symptoms, or any other illness. 

Sertraline may take a few weeks to start acting properly, just like other antidepressants. In some circumstances, sertraline may begin working for you after two to four weeks of use.

Sertraline for Anxiety and Depression

Sertraline is an antidepressant medication that is frequently prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. It is used as a first-line therapy for depression since it has a reduced likelihood of causing adverse effects than older depression medications. Sertraline is also an effective treatment for OCD and post-traumatic stress disorder.

In a 1992 study, researchers discovered that eight weeks of sertraline therapy led to measurable improvements in OCD patients. Another study in 2016 found that sertraline improved the condition of more than 65% of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder. 

Is Sertraline safe?

Sertraline and other antidepressants are generally safe to take for a long time, but no medical treatment is without risk. Sertraline is generally safe to use for a very long period. 

A few individuals may experience adverse consequences related to their sexual drive or difficulty achieving an erection. In certain instances, symptoms might carry on even after the medication has been stopped. Consult your doctor before taking Sertraline.

Are there any side effects?

Among the potential adverse effects of SSRIs are as follows: 

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Drowsiness 
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia 
• Nervousness 
• Fatigue
• Appetite problems

Sertraline and other drugs

Sertraline may interfere with serotonin action if used with other medications. A rare disease known as serotonin syndrome may occur, accompanied by a rapid heart rate, sweating, high fever, high blood pressure, and, in some cases, delirium.

​​Sertraline has been shown to interact with various natural treatments, including Tryptophan and St. John's wort. It may also interact with a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including NSAID painkillers, diuretics, stomach medications, blood thinners, and medications for some mental illnesses.

Can CBD and Sertraline be taken together?

Taking CBD oil along with SSRIs may decrease the effectiveness of the antidepressants, or inversely, antidepressants may decrease the effectiveness of CBD oil. Combining CBD with sertraline may also increase the drug's adverse effects including tiredness, disorientation, and difficulty concentrating. This is because CBD can change the medication's drug concentration. Antidepressants are often metabolised in the liver, and CBD has the potential to change liver enzymes.

However, several studies suggest that even if CBD inhibits particular enzymes required for sertraline metabolism, the effect is insignificant. Regular CBD doses are much below the blood concentration needed to affect and block these enzymes.

Most medical professionals would not suggest people combine CBD with sertraline although there is limited research on the drug interaction between the two. But cannabinoid-based medicines, such as Epidiolex for the treatment of seizures, that are used to address an underlying medical condition may be an exception. Doctors frequently do assessments on a case-by-case basis in circumstances like these.

Can I replace Sertraline with CBD?

There hasn’t been much research showing that CBD can mainly be used to replace sertraline. Medical professionals also advise not stopping sertraline use even if a patient feels better. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, missing doses of sertraline may increase the likelihood of recurrence in symptoms such as irritability, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. 

Work with a healthcare professional to devise a plan for gradually reducing the dosage of sertraline before stopping or adjusting the dosage. 

Although CBD is gaining popularity as a treatment for several health issues, research on how CBD may help with depression is still lacking. In light of this, speaking with a medical professional before beginning a CBD regimen is still the recommended course of action.