CBD Instead of Xanax for Anxiety? 

CBD Instead of Xanax for Anxiety? 

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the world, and they are a very real public health issue. Around 4% of the global population suffers from anxiety, and the question we all ask is: how do we cure it? Treatment is an effective solution, but sometimes medicines are needed too. Xanax has always been the most prescribed drug for anxiety, but recent studies have shown that CBD might be the actual answer. 

Xanax for Anxiety

Xanax is a common anxiolytic, a drug to reduce anxiety, and is quite popular amongst doctors. It is a drug in the benzodiazepine class, and it is used for all types of anxiety. This includes generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and also panic attacks. It is generally not prone to allergic reactions and starts working within the hour after taking it in. 

Xanax definitely works and there’s no denying it. However, the medicine comes with many problems. Some side effects include:

• Depression
• Sleep issues 
• Memory problems
• Headaches
• Dry mouth 
• Constipation
• Blurred vision 

If you take an overdose, other serious side effects may occur too, like confusion, seizures, coma, and even death. The risk of overdosing is especially high in combination with other drugs like alcohol or opioids. 

Another problem with Xanax is its extremely addictive characteristic. Physical or physiological dependence is easily created, and this can also lead to withdrawal symptoms. Commonly, these are ‘rebound symptoms’, meaning a worsening of the problems for which you took Xanax in the first place. 

Because of all the problems associated with Xanax, many are seeking a safer alternative to relieve their anxiety. An upcoming and promising remedy is cannabidiol, also known as CBD. 

CBD for Anxiety

CBD is one of the active ingredients of cannabis, and it is directly derived from the hemp plant. While CBD is a component of marijuana, it is non-intoxicating and doesn’t cause a high. Because of that, it is legal in the majority of places when it contains less than 0.3% THC. 

CBD-based medications are yet to be approved for anxiety, but many studies indicate that the substance can be an effective anxiolytic. Positive effects have been detected for generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, and depression. 

Cannabidiol can be taken in many forms and substances, a few being: 

• Tinctures and oils 
• Vapes
• Edibles
• Creams and gels
• Capsules

According to the World Health Organization, CBD is a safe and generally well-tolerated substance. If side effects occur, most commonly they are:

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Fatigue 
• Nausea
• Increased appetite 

Bottom line: Xanax or CBD?

Both options provide short-term anxiety relief and are proven to work. Xanax has a much stronger clinical background and has been around a lot longer than CBD, which is a fairly new player. Research confirms its efficacy, but more studies need to be done. 

Xanax can be used to overcome immediate panic attacks or severe agitation. The serious risks of the drug do outweigh the benefits, and because of its addictiveness, it is a bad choice for the long-term solution. However, CBD is a very safe and natural option and especially for chronic anxiety, the substance is a profitable choice.