Researchers from UBC are conducting a large-scale clinical trial to test the effects of CBD on bipolar depression.
What is bipolar depression?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. People with bipolar disorder often struggle with depressive episodes, which can impair their functioning and increase their risk of suicideDepressive episodes are the most common and disabling aspect of bipolar disorder.
Why CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-depressant properties. However, there is a lack of large-scale clinical trials to assess its safety and efficacy for bipolar depressionCBD could be a promising alternative or adjunctive treatment for bipolar depression, as it may have fewer side effects and interactions than conventional medications.
How is the trial designed?
The trial, funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and approved by Health Canada, is set to enroll approximately 360 participants across Canada, including sites in Vancouver, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. The participants will be randomly assigned to receive either CBD or placebo, along with their primary treatment, for six weeks. The trial will measure the changes in depressive symptoms, quality of life, and biomarkers of inflammation and neurogenesis. The trial is the first of its kind to investigate CBD for bipolar depression in a large and diverse population.
What are the expected outcomes?
The trial is expected to provide valuable data on the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of CBD for bipolar depression. If successful, the trial could pave the way for more research and development of CBD-based therapies for bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. The trial could also improve the lives of millions of people who suffer from bipolar depression, by offering them a new and effective treatment option.
