Scientists have been studying the effect of cannabis on health conditions for a long time.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, THC does have medical benefits when used in certain medicines.
For example, healthcare professionals use dronabinol (Marinol) and nabilone (Cesamet) to treat nausea in people who undergo chemotherapy. These same drugs can stimulate appetite in those with wasting syndromes related to AIDS.
In Canada, the United Kingdom, and some European countries, doctors can prescribe nabiximols (Sativex). It is a mouth spray containing THC and CBD, which can help people with the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
Many people with bipolar disorder use cannabis to manage and treat symptoms. Anecdotally, many claim that cannabis has been beneficial, although the scientific evidence remains precise.
Cannabis comprises over more than 500 chemical compounds. These include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are the most well-known of these cannabinoids.
THC is responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use, while CBD is gaining popularity as an alternative treatment for numerous conditions, including some mental health issues.
It is also worth noting that many studies investigating the effect of cannabis on bipolar disorder have focused on the use of THC.
However, a 2016 pilot study reported people with the condition to rate their feelings after using the substance. Within 4 hours of using the drug, people reported the following:
• less anger
• less tension
• less depression
• higher energy levels
Other studies suggest cannabis can improve brain function in people with bipolar disorder. An older study from 2010, which looked at 133 people with the condition, stated that the participants who used cannabis had improved:
• reasoning speed
• attention
• memory
The ADAI report concluded there was more evidence of negative effects of cannabis on bipolar disorder than positive ones.
It is also worth remembering that the risks of cannabis use include:
• problems with memory, decisionmaking, coordination, emotions, and reaction time
• increased risk of stroke and heart disease
• disorientation, anxiety, and paranoia
• lung damage and lung cancer, if a person smokes the substance
Natural and alternative remedies for bipolar
Many supplements and remedies claim to help people manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder. However, scientists have found limited evidence to support them, so most people with the condition need to take medication.
Despite this, there are many ways for individuals to ease their symptoms. A person can monitor their symptoms to learn the triggers that can worsen them.
Factors that can exacerbate bipolar disorder symptoms are different for everyone, but they may include stress, seasonal changes, or a lack of sleep. These are things that people may be able to manage with natural remedies and certain behaviours, such as maintaining an active, healthy daily routine.
People with bipolar disorder may wish to try the following:
• sticking to a strict daily schedule with set times for eating, socializing, working, and relaxing
• taking regular exercise
• keeping to a strict sleep schedule, as insufficient sleep can trigger mania, while too much can worsen moods
• eating a healthy and balanced diet
It is also vital that people continue to take their medications — do not stop or skip doses unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional.
Many people with bipolar disorder use cannabis to treat their symptoms. There is plenty of anecdotal evidence to support its use.
However, while there is small scientific evidence to support the efficacy of cannabis to treat bipolar disorder, some studies conclude the substance may, in fact, worsen symptoms.
Individuals should consult with a doctor before using cannabis to treat bipolar disorder, as there are some potential risks associated with the drug.
Herbs and supplements
Some people with bipolar disorder use herbs or supplements in an attempt to relieve their symptoms.
Omega-3
omega-3 may help, according to some studies. Scientists have found that bipolar disorder is less common in countries where people consume a lot of fish. People with depression may also have lower levels of omega-3 in their blood.
Magnesium
Some scientists think magnesium has a role in regulating mood and both manic and depressive episodes and work with the medications to make them work effectively.
People sometimes use St. John’s wort to treat depressive symptoms, but they may increase the risk of mania and interfere with antidepressants.
Always speak to a doctor, some can interact with other drugs, and they may have adverse effects.
source: Medical News Today
