Evidence supporting the use of: Cannabinoids
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cannabinoids, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), have garnered increasing scientific attention for their potential role in the management of anxiety disorders. Preclinical studies in animal models have shown that CBD may exert anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, likely through interactions with serotonin receptors (5-HT1A) and modulation of the endocannabinoid system. Human studies, while more limited, have produced mixed results. Some small-scale clinical trials and observational studies suggest that CBD may reduce anxiety in specific situations, such as public speaking or social anxiety disorder. For example, a 2011 study in Neuropsychopharmacology found that CBD significantly reduced anxiety in subjects with social anxiety disorder during a simulated public speaking test.

However, the evidence is not robust. Many studies are small, open-label, or lack long-term follow-up. There is also concern about the potential for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another major cannabinoid, to worsen anxiety or induce paranoia in some individuals. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while there is some promise, the current evidence base is insufficient to recommend cannabinoids as a first-line or standard treatment for anxiety disorders. Larger, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to clarify efficacy, optimal dosing, and safety profiles.

In summary, cannabinoids—especially CBD—have some scientific evidence supporting their use for anxiety, but the overall evidence is limited and rated as low to moderate quality (2/5).

More about Cannabinoids
More about Anxiety Disorders

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