How to reduce the use of antidepressants with CBD?

Author: Lucie Garabasova

Antidepressants are essential for many people in managing depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. However, long-term use often brings side effects, such as fatigue, numbness, or even dependency. It is no surprise that more people are seeking natural and gentle alternatives to support their journey toward better mental health.

One such option is cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from cannabis. Thanks to its calming, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties, CBD is becoming a popular supplement for those looking to reduce their antidepressant doses or stop using them altogether. This article focuses on how CBD works, why it might be helpful in reducing antidepressant doses, and shares real-life stories of people who have used CBD to navigate this challenging process.

What are antidepressants, and how do they work?

Antidepressants are medications that help regulate chemical processes in the brain, particularly levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These substances influence mood, emotions, and overall mental well-being. The most common types of antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Their use can bring relief from depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. However, the medications themselves often do not solve the problem but merely alleviate its symptoms.

Side effects of antidepressants

Long-term use of antidepressants can cause side effects, including:

• Increased fatigue or insomnia.
• Weight gain.
• Reduced sexual desire or problems with sexual function.
• Excessive sweating.
• Memory and concentration issues.
• Emotional numbness.
• Dependency, particularly with drugs like benzodiazepines.

Why reduce antidepressant use?

Prolonged use of psychotropic drugs can lead to:

• Dependency and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to discontinue.
• Impaired cognitive functions, such as short-term memory.
• Risk of long-term damage to mental and physical health (e.g., increased risk of dementia).

Reducing doses should always be consulted with a professional and done very gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

CBD as support in reducing antidepressants

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound derived from cannabis plants that has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. CBD belongs to a group of substances called cannabinoids, which influence the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body. This system plays a vital role in regulating processes such as mood, sleep, stress response, and immunity.

Unlike THC, known for its psychoactive effects, CBD has no intoxicating properties and is legal. Instead, it works gently but effectively to help the body restore balance and promote overall well-being. Thanks to these properties, CBD is increasingly used as a supportive tool for reducing antidepressant doses.

How can CBD help in reducing antidepressants?

1. Support for Nervous System Regeneration

   Research suggests that CBD has neuroprotective effects, meaning it can contribute to the repair and protection of nerve cells. This is especially crucial for those who have been on psychotropic medications for an extended period, as some drugs can strain or weaken the nervous system. CBD helps reduce oxidative stress and supports the production of new neurons, which may improve the body’s adaptation to lower antidepressant doses.

2. Improved sleep quality
   Insomnia is a common issue when reducing antidepressant doses. CBD promotes calm and deep sleep by helping regulate sleep-wake cycles. For instance, CBD drops for nighttime use or CBD combined with melatonin may benefit those struggling with falling asleep or frequent awakenings.

3. Reduced anxiety and stress
   Anxiety and stress are not only common symptoms of mental health conditions but can also worsen during attempts to lower antidepressant doses. CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, which can help better manage stressful situations and reduce feelings of nervousness or panic. Due to these effects, CBD is often compared to natural calming agents.

4. Anti-inflammatory and overall calming effects
   Chronic inflammation in the body is linked to many health issues, including depression. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and helps the body manage inflammatory responses, which can contribute to overall regeneration. This supports not only physical but also mental well-being.

Why choose CBD for reducing antidepressant use?

CBD offers a natural and non-addictive alternative that can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms associated with discontinuing antidepressants. These symptoms include:

• Tremors and restlessness
• Heart palpitations
• Insomnia and irritability
• Increased stress and anxiety

The versatility of CBD in various forms—oils, capsules, teas, or vaporizers—allows for personalized dosing and administration tailored to individual needs. This makes CBD an accessible tool to improve quality of life during the reduction of antidepressant doses.

However, it is crucial to emphasize that the process of reducing psychotropic medications should always be carried out under professional supervision and with patience. CBD is not a replacement for antidepressants but can significantly support the body and mind on the journey toward gradually weaning off these medications.

Real-Life Experiences with gradual reduction of antidepressants

Ms. Hutková (62 years old, severe depression since 2017)

My name is Hutková, I’m 62 years old, and I have been battling severe depression since 2017. I am also an oncology patient and suffer from a tree pollen allergy. My life was long dominated by fatigue, despair, and hopelessness, which worsened further during antibiotic treatments for frequent illnesses.

The antidepressant regimen, specifically paroxetine (20 mg twice daily) and Xanax (1–2 times daily during acute episodes), provided temporary relief but soon made me realize that I couldn’t continue this way forever.

I started looking for alternatives. Homeopathy, vitamins, meditation—all these worked briefly before my condition deteriorated again. In September of last year, while browsing the internet, I stumbled upon the Zelená Země website and began reading articles about CBD. The topic intrigued me so much that I decided to contact Mr. Čermák, an expert on CBD products.

From October onward, we worked together on gradually reducing my antidepressant doses. It wasn’t an easy process, but with his guidance and the help of CBD products, I managed to decrease my daily dose from two tablets to just half a tablet within three months.

Initially, I started with a 10% CBD oil, later transitioning to a 20% oil and adding CBD capsules. These products helped stabilize my mental state, and most importantly—they restored my zest for life.

In the past, I spent entire days in bed. I cried frequently, had no appetite, and lacked the energy to leave my house. During that time, I feared I might end up in a psychiatric ward. Today, everything is different. I’m active, go for walks, exercise, and even feel creative again.

Although I live alone—I’m a widow, and my sons are grown—I no longer feel despondent or lonely. I can manage everything on my own, and even those around me, who saw me as broken after my husband’s death, have noticed the positive change.

Mr. Čermák always kindly answers my questions and adjusts the treatment to my current needs. Thanks to his professional guidance and the effects of CBD, I haven’t been sick this winter, which is a huge improvement for me. I can honestly say that CBD has not only helped me but has truly changed my life.

With gratitude, Mrs. H

Mrs. Šárka’s Story: Overcomingd ependence on antidepressants with CBD

My name is Šárka, I am 59 years old, and for the past several years, I had been taking antidepressants, specifically Rivotril, at a daily dose of 3.5 mg. This medication was originally prescribed by my doctor, but over time, I realized I was becoming dependent on it. Without it, I couldn’t handle even everyday stressful situations. Long-term use of such a dose also had devastating effects on my body and mind – from poor short-term memory to tremors and general nervousness.

Although my doctor explained that long-term use of these medications could lead to dementia, the only solution she offered was hospitalization, which I refused. That’s why I decided to take control of my health and started reducing the doses on my own. However, I soon discovered I couldn’t do it alone – withdrawal symptoms such as heart palpitations, body tremors, impaired vision, and a fear of any change were unbearable.

Fortunately, I discovered Cannadorra and decided to try CBD products. After consulting with an expert, I began using CBD oil, capsules, and other supportive products. Together, we developed a gradual plan that included slowly reducing my Rivotril dose while increasing my CBD intake.

The process wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. Thanks to a combination of products such as hemp oil, Relax capsules, and sleep drops, I managed to reduce my Rivotril dose from 3.5 mg to 0.5 mg daily within 15 months. I consider this an enormous success, as all my previous attempts to reduce the dose had failed.

CBD helped me manage withdrawal symptoms, improved my sleep quality, and gave me inner peace. Now, I can sleep for up to four hours at a time, which was previously impossible. My fear of leaving the house still lingers, but with the help of CBD, I am managing to face these situations.

Even my surroundings have noticed a significant change. My family sees that I am calmer, more balanced, and overall more positive. The improvement in my condition is not only physical but also mental. I also understand that this journey is not short-term and requires patience.

CBD has been a crucial step in my path to independence from antidepressants. If I hadn’t discovered it, I would still be trapped in the vicious cycle of dependency and withdrawal symptoms. I am grateful for the support of the experts who guided me through this process, and I hope my story inspires others who are seeking a way out of similar situations.

With gratitude, Šárka