Cannabis, a cause for anxiety? A critical appraisal of the anxiogenic and anxiolytic properties
Journal of Translational Medicine October 2, 2020 Lara Sharpe, Justin Sinclair, Andrew Kramer et al. 122 citations
Acute doses of cannabidiol (CBD) reduce anxiety in both animals and humans without causing anxiety at higher doses, while tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) commonly produces anxiety, especially at higher doses. Epidemiological studies support an anxiolytic effect from CBD, THC, or whole-plant cannabis, but human clinical studies show THC often triggers anxiogenic responses. Cannabinoid therapies containing primarily CBD may be more suitable for people with pre-existing anxiety or as an adjunct for managing anxiety or stress-related disorders. Further research is needed on other cannabis constituents like terpenes, and more clinical trials involving patients with anxiety disorders are warranted.