Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by repetitive behaviors and intrusive thoughts. It is estimated to affect approximately 2 to 3% of the global population.
The standard treatment for OCD is cognitive-behavioral therapy and/or medication, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
About one-third of people do not experience a significant reduction in symptoms after undergoing these treatments. IRS treatments generally take about 6 weeks to produce a clinically significant effect.
Many people report anecdotally that cannabidiol (CBD) products help relieve their OCD symptoms, and researchers continue to explore CBD’s potential for treating OCD. Although the research is still in its early stages, some studies have yielded promising results.
In this article, we explore the latest research on the potential of CBD in treating OCD. We also discuss potential side effects and look at some specific products that might be helpful to you.
Can CBD help alleviate the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder?
Currently, the ability of CBD to relieve symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder is largely theoretical and based on anecdotal evidence. In fact, there is very little research on the effectiveness of CBD for people with OCD.
A handful of case reports describe people with OCD whose symptoms improved after being treated with CBD or other cannabinoids. However, larger-scale clinical trials are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of CBD.
In a 2020 study, researchers examined the effects of medical cannabis on a group of 87 people with OCD. The researchers found that patients reported:
- 60 % for reducing compulsions
- 49 % for Reducing Intrusive Thoughts
- 52 % for anxiety reduction
Cannabis containing higher doses of CBD led to a greater reduction in compulsive behavior.
However, in another small study In a 2020 study with only 14 participants, researchers compared the effects of cannabis containing varying concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD to a placebo. They found that smoking cannabis containing mostly CBD or mostly THC had little impact on the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How can CBD help relieve the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder?
CBD is one of more than 80 biologically active compounds found in the cannabis plant. THC is the main psychoactive compound that gets you «high.» CBD is not psychoactive but has a number of effects on the body, including pain relief and the potential to reduce anxiety and depression.
It is believed that the causes of OCD are multifactorial, but it is becoming increasingly clear that the body’s endocannabinoid system plays a role in regulating anxiety, fear, and repetitive behaviors.
Your endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors in your body that plays a role in regulating sleep, mood, appetite, and other processes. When CBD interacts with your endocannabinoid system, it can cause changes in these processes. However, researchers do not yet know exactly how CBD interacts with this system.
The 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 the others. The amount of CBD per serving is likely more important than the form itself.
Although CBD can be beneficial on its own, some research suggests that taking CBD alongside THC and other chemicals found in cannabis—known as terpenes—can enhance its benefits. This phenomenon is often referred to as the «entourage effect.».
Should children be given CBD to treat OCD or anxiety?
The only condition that the National Agency for Health and Medicines has approved CBD to treat is epilepsy. CBD has not been extensively studied for treating other conditions in children, and the long-term effects and safety of CBD are still largely unknown. Until further research is conducted, it is best to avoid giving CBD to children.
How much CBD should you take to relieve the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder?
There is no standard dose for CBD to be effective in treating OCD.
A study magazine A study conducted in 2015 found strong evidence that 300 to 600 milligrams of CBD taken orally reduces symptoms of’anxiety. It is plausible that a similar dose could be effective in treating OCD, but further research is needed to confirm this hypothesis.
It’s best to start with a small dose of CBD and increase it gradually 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 taking CBD for OCD?
CBD is generally well tolerated, but it can cause some side effects such as:
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- changes in appetite
- dry mouth
- drowsiness
Can CBD interact with other medications taken for OCD?
You should talk to your doctor before taking CBD, because the CBD interacts with a number of medications. If your medication’s package insert advises you to avoid grapefruit, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking CBD.
Both grapefruit and CBD have the potential to inhibit an enzyme called CYP3A4, which is responsible for breaking down many types of medications. When this enzyme is inhibited, the rate at which your medication breaks down slows down, which can intensify its effects or side effects.
Medications used to treat anxiety, depression and others mood disorders are among a long list of medications that can interact with grapefruit or CBD.
Sources and scientific studies are cited and linked in the content of the above article.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)