Studies show almost seven percent of adults experience a depressive episode each year. If you’re one of these adults, you’re likely wondering what to do now.
Some tout the benefit of antidepressants for depression. Others talk about natural remedies like CBD. So, which is better for you? Trying to decide between CBD and antidepressants shouldn’t be an uninformed decision.
Keep reading to find out more about these two options.
The Side Effects of Antidepressants Versus CBD
When deciding to take a drug, the first step is to weigh the cons of side-effects versus benefits. So, what side-effects can you expect when taking antidepressants or CBD?
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Side-Effects of Antidepressants
It would be an injustice to say some people don’t feel relief when taking antidepressants. It’s been around for quite some time, and if people want to use them, they should speak to a doctor.
But, it would also be an injustice to not speak about the side-effects of these drugs. A majority of drugs created have some risk of side-effects or addiction. And this includes antidepressants.
Some of the major side-effects of antidepressants include:
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Weight gain
- Weight loss
- Drowsiness
- Loss of libido
- Nausea
It’s up to the person taking the medication whether these side-effects are worth it.
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Side-Effects of CBD
CBD oil is experiencing a growth in popularity over the states. But like antidepressants, not talking about the downsides of CBD would be dishonest. Some side-effects people experience are:
- Dry mouth
- Some drug interaction
- Drowsiness
- Appetite changes
Because CBD is derived from natural sources, the side-effects are fewer.
Choosing Between CBD and Antidepressants
Now that you know the side-effects of both treatment choices, how do you choose? Should you use CBD oil for depression? Or should you stick with traditional methods from doctors?
Before you can choose, it’s good to know how CBD helps depression.
- CBD’s Effect on the Brain
CBD oil has a proven effect on serotonin levels. The receptors responsible for these levels show antidepressant effects when CBD is present.
CBD oil also has a reputation for its effects on the hippocampus. Cannabidiol has a way of repairing and protecting neurons in this part of the brain. This is a big step in helping those with depression.
- CBD and Endocannabinoids
The body is full of endocannabinoids. Not only that, but the brain is too. And CBD seems to affect these systems by increasing their levels. The studies show that this increase can help with neuron growth.
- CBD Works Faster
Unlike antidepressant medications, CBD begins working within thirty minutes of ingestion. Antidepressant medication takes weeks to start seeing progress.
- What Happens When You Take Them Together
Can you take CBD and antidepressants together? If you are taking antidepressants already, why not pair the two for added benefits?
Before you take this step, it’s always wise to speak with a doctor. CBD can produce enzymes in the liver that break down certain medications faster. You’ll need the advice of your doctor to know if it’s safe to combine these treatments.
More Alternative Medicines
The bottom line is, taking CBD and antidepressants should be the choice of the patient. If you don’t want to put medications into your body, CBD is a good alternative. It’s proven to show antidepressant tendencies as well as being able to control anxiety.
There are more articles about alternative medicine choices in our archive. Take a look for more information about CBD and depression.
“Because CBD is derived from natural sources, the side-effects are fewer.”
I entirely agree that the side effects of CBD are fewer that many antidepressants the reasons for this are much deeper than ‘just because it’s natural’ Datura, salvia and belledonna are all natural too, yet the effects of these are incredibly potent and/or dangerous.