Using CBD Gummies to Treat Anxiety and Depression While Taking Zoloft

Using CBD Gummies to Treat Anxiety and Depression While Taking Zoloft

Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are incredibly common. In fact, an estimated 19% of U.S. adults experience some type of anxiety disorder each year. Depression also affects around 7% of American adults annually. With numbers this high, it's no wonder people are looking for all-natural ways to find relief from symptoms.

Recently, CBD gummies have become an increasingly popular option for managing anxiety and depression. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana, CBD will not get you "high." Instead, research shows CBD can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.

For those already taking prescription medications like Zoloft (sertraline) for anxiety or depression, adding CBD into the mix can seem complicated. However, there are definitely ways to safely use CBD gummies alongside antidepressants like Zoloft. We'll cover everything you need to know below.

What is Zoloft?

Zoloft is a commonly prescribed antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication. Chemically known as sertraline, this selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in regulating emotions.

By keeping more serotonin circulating in the brain, Zoloft can provide relief from common anxiety and depression symptoms. Some of the common reasons doctors prescribe Zoloft include:

• Major depressive disorder
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

For many suffering from impairment due to depression and anxiety disorders, Zoloft can be an effective form of treatment. However, Zoloft does come with potential side effects. Common adverse effects can include nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, dry mouth, fatigue and more.

What are CBD Gummies?

CBD gummies are edible gummy candies that contain cannabidiol (CBD) oil. They come in colorful, bite-sized candies similar to gummy vitamins. Except instead of just vitamins and minerals, CBD gummies provide all-natural relief from symptoms like anxiety, chronic pain and sleep issues.

The CBD oil in gummies typically comes from hemp plants. Unlike marijuana, hemp plants contain very low amounts of THC. So CBD gummies will not make you "stoned" or impair your functioning at all. Instead, CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to help regulate functions like mood, pain, sleep and immunity.

Benefits of CBD Gummies for Anxiety and Depression

What makes CBD gummies an appealing choice for managing anxiety and depression? Here are some of the top benefits you can enjoy with CBD gummies:

• Longer lasting effects: Compared to CBD oils and vapes, gummies release CBD slower so the effects stay in your system longer.
• Precise dosing: Gummies contain a premeasured dose of CBD already divided into small servings, usually 5 to 30 mg each.
• Efficient absorption: When you eat CBD in gummy form, up to 95% of the active ingredients can be absorbed by the body for maximum bioavailability.
• Easy to take: Pop a gummy or two and you're done! No prep work or extra tools/supplies required.
• Masks the taste: Let's face it, CBD oil tastes earthy and bitter. Gummy bears make it easier to take CBD without all the hempy flavor.
• Convenient and discreet: Gummies look just like candy so they're easy to take anywhere and nobody has to know your daily "vitamin" is actually CBD.

Studies show taking CBD can reduce anxiety levels and improve mood by supporting serotonin levels in the brain. In one study of anxiety patients, over 75% experienced improvement after taking CBD. CBD has also been shown as effective for depression due to its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Overall, CBD gummies provide a tasty and convenient method for getting all the potential mental health benefits of CBD. Taking CBD Gummies for anxiety and depression can help you cope with symptoms and enjoy improved focus, sleep quality and energy levels.

Is it Safe to Take CBD Gummies with Zoloft?

If you currently use Zoloft, or any other SSRI antidepressant, you may be wondering if it's safe to add CBD gummies into the mix. While more research is still needed, current evidence points to CBD being very compatible with Zoloft and similar drugs. Here's why:

• CBD is non-intoxicating and non-sedating, so it will not impair your mental clarity or make you feel "high" like THC-containing marijuana.
• CBD does not negatively interact with most antidepressants as it's metabolized through the cytochrome P450 system in a different way than most SSRIs.
• Small doses of CBD are unlikely to cause side effects or disrupt Zoloft's efficacy.
• According to one study, using CBD and SSRIs together may allow you to use lower doses of each for treating anxiety and depression.
• Patients report safely using CBD oil for pain, insomnia, and other benefits while taking Zoloft.

With that said, there are a few things those on Zoloft should keep in mind when using CBD:

• Start with the lowest dose of CBD possible to assess your tolerance, such as 5-10mg.
• Monitor how you feel for side effects and interactions with Zoloft for the first few weeks of adding CBD.
• Talk to your doctor about using CBD, especially if you take other medications too.
• Be wary of CBD inhibiting Zoloft absorption. Take your Zoloft and CBD several hours apart.
• Don't stop your Zoloft prescription right away. Gradually reduce it as you add CBD under your doctor's care.

While rare, some people could experience side effects like diarrhea, changes in appetite, fatigue and dry mouth from combining Zoloft and CBD. Pay attention to any effects like this and adjust your dosages accordingly.

How to Take CBD Gummies Safely with Zoloft

Start Low and Go Slow

When first using CBD with Zoloft or any antidepressant, it's important to start with a very low dose. Starting with large doses of CBD may inhibit the enzymes that metabolize Zoloft and other medications. Taking high levels of CBD can also increase the risk of medication side effects.

A good starting dosage of CBD is between 5-10 mg once or twice daily. Stay at this low amount for at least one week while monitoring side effects. Increase the dose by another 5 mg after the first week if you don't notice any negative interactions. From there, increase the dose by small increments every few days until you reach the optimal dose that provides anxiety and depression relief.

Time it Right

Timing is another key factor for safely using CBD gummies with Zoloft. Most doctors recommend taking your daily Zoloft dose in the morning, especially if insomnia or fatigue are side effects you want to avoid. The best time to take CBD is usually in the late morning or early evening. This helps avoid the two substances competing for absorption.

Ideally, separate your CBD and Zoloft doses by at least 4 hours. For example, take your antidepressant with breakfast and your CBD gummy with lunch or dinner. Consistent timing and appropriate spacing between doses helps prevent negative medication interactions while allowing both the Zoloft and CBD to work.

Talk to Your Prescribing Doctor

Don't forget to loop in the doctor who prescribes your Zoloft about wanting to try CBD gummies! They can provide valuable dosing guidance and monitor for potential interactions during your regular appointments. Your doctor may recommend starting with an even lower dose of CBD or advise you to avoid combining the two substances altogether if you have other health conditions.

Being open with your prescribing physician ensures CBD will complement your Zoloft treatment rather than complicate it. Some doctors may not be well-versed in using CBD for anxiety or depression yet. If yours recommends against it without citing research, get a second medical opinion from a cannabis-friendly provider.

Watch Out for Side Effects

Pay close attention to any side effects after starting to take CBD gummies with Zoloft. Potential side effects from CBD include diarrhea, appetite changes, fatigue and interactions with other medications. Zoloft can also cause side effects like insomnia, headaches, nausea and decreased sex drive.

Monitor yourself to see if any side effects worsen after adding CBD into your regimen. If you experience significant side effects that impact your quality of life, stop taking CBD and talk to your doctor about adjusting your Zoloft prescription dosage. Report any concerning side effects so they can decide if CBD is the right option for your anxiety or depression treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take CBD gummies every day with Zoloft?

You can take CBD gummies daily along with your regular Zoloft regimen. Just be sure to start with a low CBD dose, monitor side effects, and allow sufficient time in between taking each medication. Consistent, daily CBD use may provide the most anxiety and depression relief.

What's the best CBD gummy dosage with Zoloft?

Most people take between 5 and 25 mg of CBD twice daily. However, the ideal dosage can vary based on your metabolism, sensitivity to CBD, other medications, and Zoloft dosage. Work closely with your doctor to find the optimal CBD gummy dosage for your needs.

How long does it take for CBD gummies to work with Zoloft?

It may take a week or more of consistent CBD use before you start experiencing the benefits for anxiety and depression. CBD gummies release slowly over hours, so effects take longer than with CBD oil but tend to last longer. Be patient and stick to your regimen!

Can CBD replace Zoloft completely?

For some people, CBD may eventually replace Zoloft and similar antidepressants entirely. However, you should never attempt to replace prescribed Zoloft with only CBD before discussing it with your prescribing doctor. Stopping Zoloft suddenly can cause harmful withdrawal symptoms.

Your doctor can create a tapering schedule to gradually transition you from Zoloft to CBD under medical supervision if appropriate for your case.

Are there drug interactions between CBD gummies and Zoloft?

CBD and Zoloft have minimal interactions compared to other drugs, but CBD can slow Zoloft excretion through the body's cytochrome P450 pathway. That's why appropriate timing and dosages are important. Talk to your doctor about any other medications you take to prevent complications.

Experience Anxiety and Depression Relief with CBD Gummies

For those struggling with anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, CBD gummies provide a natural way to find much-needed relief. While starting any new supplement alongside Zoloft requires care and proper medical guidance, current research on CBD is promising. With low risk of side effects and addiction, CBD gummies can be life-changing for those with untreated or treatment-resistant mental health issues.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.