Bipolar

Cannabis has garnered attention as a potential adjunct therapy for bipolar disorder, offering therapeutic benefits when used judiciously. Studies suggest that cannabis may alleviate symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, and sleep disturbances commonly associated with bipolar disorder (Gruber et al., 2020). Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, has been shown to exert anti-anxiety and mood-stabilizing effects, which can complement traditional pharmacological treatments (Blessing et al., 2015). Additionally, patients have reported improved sleep quality, a critical factor in managing bipolar disorder, following cannabis use (Babson et al., 2017). While the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) requires careful administration due to its potential to exacerbate manic symptoms, its anxiolytic properties can be beneficial for some patients during depressive phases (Turna et al., 2019). Furthermore, cannabis may reduce the dependency on multiple medications, promoting patient adherence and overall quality of life (Corroon & Phillips, 2018). However, it is crucial to use cannabis under medical supervision to ensure optimal dosing and avoid adverse effects. Continued research is needed to fully understand its role in treating this complex condition.

References

1. Babson, K. A., Sottile, J., & Morabito, D. (2017). Cannabis, cannabinoids, and sleep: a review of the literature. Current Psychiatry Reports, 19(4), 23.
2. Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 825-836.
3. Corroon, J. M., & Phillips, J. A. (2018). A cross-sectional study of cannabidiol users. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 3(1), 152-161.
4. Gruber, S. A., Rogowska, J., & Yurgelun-Todd, D. A. (2020). Neurocognition in adult bipolar disorder and cannabis use. Brain Imaging and Behavior, 14(2), 487-497.
5. Turna, J., Patterson, B., & Van Ameringen, M. (2019). Is cannabis treatment for anxiety, mood, and related disorders ready for prime time? Depression and Anxiety, 36(11), 1003-1019.