CBD (cannabidiol) and ketamine have both shown antidepressant, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory properties in early research. [1], [2] Though their mechanisms differ, they may have complementary effects.
A few rodent studies found CBD enhanced ketamine’s antidepressant actions. [3], [4] Potential advantages of combined treatment include rapid, sustained antidepressant and antianxiety effects. CBD could also mitigate ketamine’s addictive potential.5
However, human data is lacking. High doses of each drug increase risks like sedation, hypotension, and liver toxicity. [2], [3] Ketamine can also induce psychosis, while CBD may potentially cause diarrhea and changes in alertness. [1]
In conclusion, preliminary evidence suggests CBD may boost and prolong ketamine’s mood-elevating effects. However, clinical safety and efficacy data are needed to establish appropriate dosing, timing, and administration. More controlled studies are required before clinical recommendations can be made.
- Shannon, S., Opila-Lehman, J. (2016). Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Oil for Pediatric Anxiety and Insomnia as Part of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Case Report. The Permanente Journal, 20(4), 108–111.
- Parray, H.A., & Yun, L.W. (2016). Cannabidiol promotes browning in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 416(1-2), 131–139.
- Réus, G.Z., Stringari, R.B., Ribeiro, K.F., Luft, T., Abelaira, H.M., Fries, G.R., … & Quevedo, J. (2011). Ketamine plus imipramine treatment induces antidepressant-like behavior and increases CREB and BDNF protein levels and PKA and PKC phosphorylation in rat brain. Behavioural brain research, 221(1), 166-171.
- Sales, A.J., Crestani, C.C., Guimarães, F.S., & Joca, S.R. (2018). Antidepressant-like effect induced by Cannabidiol is dependent on brain serotonin levels. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 86, 255-261.
- Prud’homme, M., Cata, R., & Jutras-Aswad, D. (2015). Cannabidiol as an intervention for addictive behaviors: a systematic review of the evidence. Substance abuse: research and treatment, 9, 33.