Schizophrenia

A recent systematic review published in Schizophrenia Research in March 2015 finds that the use of cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid (i.e. a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant) may be helpful in the management of psychotic symptoms (which are characterized by a “loss of contact with reality”), such as those experienced by individuals with schizophrenia. What is Schizophrenia? Schizophrenia is a psychotic mental health disorder (one characterized by “abnormal thinking and perception”) with co-occurring changes in mood and behavior. Symptoms may include: …

There has been an abundance of conflicting information about the potential relationship between schizophrenia and cannabis. A controversial study published in December suggests that smoking cannabis may exacerbate a genetic disposition that makes people more vulnerable to schizophrenia, but multiple studies [1,2] have shown that the plant can greatly benefit schizophrenic patients. In hopes of expanding our knowledge on this relationship, a group of researchers from the University of Manchester (UK) and the University …

One of the common questions relevant to the debate on medical marijuana use and legalization is, “How does cannabis affect mental illness?” To understand this question fully, it is necessary to understand some basics about the field of research, to assess the available evidence surrounding this question, and to consider the possible application of marijuana in treating symptoms of mental health conditions. Why Do People Think Cannabis Causes Mental Illness? Many studies have found that people who consume cannabis tend to be more likely to have various types of mental health issues, …

For years the faulty argument has been made that cannabis causes and/or increases the likelihood of schizophrenia. Of course, much of this position has already been debunked in one way or another. A study published in 2004 determined that cannabis can help counter psychosis; another study published last year found that cannabidiol (CBD) can help improve cognitive function in schizophrenic individuals. Accordingly, a number …

Canadian Study: Cannabis May Benefit Schizophrenia Patients Despite the growing information about medical marijuana and its benefits, little is known about the effects it has on schizophrenia. One study suggested that cannabidiol (CBD) may play a role in reducing the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia, and another study published this year suggests that cannabis may reduce the some of the cognitive impairments. Symptoms of schizophrenia are often divided into two categories: positive symptoms and negative symptoms. Positive symptoms are those which are …

Research Shows Cannabinoids May Reduce Psychosis Research about the cannabinoid system is becoming a trend in medicine, and cannabidiol (CBD) seems to have stolen the limelight from its sister, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD has shown promise in preventing cancer from cigarette smoke, reducing heart damage from chemotherapy, and many more studies are being conducted. CBD inhibits the uptake of anandamide, allowing it to stay …