CBD vs. Xanax: How to effectively fight anxiety?

The topic in the order of the third article "CBD vs ..." is the comparison of CBD with the commercially sold drug Xanax, which is most often prescribed as part of clinical treatment for anxiety states. We will therefore focus on similar properties, main differences, possible negatives and an alternative option of switching from Xanax to a much gentler CBD.

In order not to stress you out unnecessarily, we will mention right at the very beginning that under certain conditions, the pharmaceutical product called Xanax can actually be replaced by natural cannabidiol, or CBD. Unfortunately, this information is too general. The issue of long-term struggle with anxiety is much more complex, so we have to look at this topic from several points of view.

So first we should imagine both substances in order to get a basic overview of their characteristics. Let's get down to it!

What is Xanax?

Xanax (Alprazolam) is a drug used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or social anxiety disorder (SAD). It ranks among the benzodiazepines, which aim in our body to increase the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). This acts on the brain and CNS (central nervous system), causing a calming effect.  

It is a prescription drug that is widely prescribed by psychiatrists for anxiety and related disorders. 

How does Xanax work for anxiety?

As we mentioned before, Xanax, like other benzodiazepines, increases the level of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in our brain. GABA blocks specific signals in our CNS and brain, giving us a calming effect. By increasing the level of GABA, Xanax helps prevent our body's exaggerated stress reactions and thus suppresses anxiety and panic attacks at the same time. 

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol is a natural compound that is commonly found in the plant hemp. Users use it mainly because of its ability to help with stress, pain, sleep or various forms of anxiety. From previous research and user experience, we also know about the benefits of CBD in the treatment of other diseases. Research in recent years suggests that CBD's potential for treating anxiety is very promising!

How does CBD work against anxiety?

Scientists have several different theories as to how this phenomenon occurs. Of course, we know that CBD in our body interacts with endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system ensures homeostasis (internal balance). However, it can be very easily disrupted by, for example, stress - whether physical or psychological. In these situations, supplementing internal cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) with external cannabinoids (for example from CBD) should help the ECS function properly and thus return it to a healthy balance.

Furthermore, we can meet the opinions of scientists that CBD has an effect on anxiety due to its effect on the production of serotonin, which is also classified as a neurotransmitter. A higher level of serotonin is supposed to induce feelings of calmness, focus, emotional stability and happiness. Cannabidiol should work in the same way as Escitalopram, serotonin should therefore remain between the nerve endings longer and thus our mental state should improve.

By combining the support of our body's natural processes (ECS function) and changing the movement of neurotransmitters in our brain, we should achieve positive and long-lasting effects of CBD on anxiety.

CBD vs Xanax

Xanax, like CBD, is not included psychoactive substances. It therefore does not belong to the same category as the very well-known THC, HHC, HHC-P and other cannabinoids with psychoactive potency.

According to experts, the effects of Xanax are calming and relaxing, but at the same time they can cause drowsiness and fatigue. The first part of the named effects also applies to CBD, but drowsiness is usually manifested only with excessive use, not with the recommended dosage. The natural cannabinoid CBD is also much gentler, as it is a non-narcotic organic substance, the long-term use of which shows almost no side effects.

However, the effects of CBD may be less intense compared to prescription drugs. However, in combination with a healthy lifestyle and enough exercise, it is an effective helper in the fight against anxiety. Most agree on that consumers, who regularly uses CBD to suppress anxiety. These people report that anxious feelings are easier to ignore thanks to cannabidiol and can be effectively suppressed with its help.

Xanax: Pros and Cons

Xanax has been a widely used anti-anxiety medication for a long time. It is an effective preparation, however, it also has its dark side in the form of possible side effects, which are often manifested during long-term use. So let's describe together not only how it can help us, but also let's not neglect its negative effects.

Effects on anxiety

The treatment of anxiety is particularly aided by the very strong effects of Xanax, which are manifested by a relaxing and calming effect, which can also be characterized as a sedative. The action of Xanax is very fast, as it is proven that 90% of the effects are achieved within the first hour of use. It reaches full peak effects in about 90 min. Therefore, it is very often used for acute and panic anxiety. Its effects are scientifically proven; many clinical studies namely, the positive effect of Xanax on anxiety was confirmed.

Xanax side effects

Although it is not a psychoactive drug, its use is highly addictive! And not only in terms of psychology, but also physical absence. This happens especially with incorrect dosage (overuse), when the body quickly builds up tolerance. This condition can escalate in the use of 20 or 30 pills a day in order to given individual avoided withdrawal symptoms.

Unfortunately, these can occur even if you are not completely dependent on him. The American Institute of AAC states that withdrawal side effects can occur after only 3 weeks of use. These include anxiety, panic attacks, hyperventilation (significantly deeper or faster breathing), tremors, muscle spasms, insomnia, hypersensitivity to light, sound or touch.

Unfortunately, the side effects associated with its discontinuation are not the only ones that can be observed in patients. During use, we can experience loss of control of the muscles of the hands and feet (ataxia), cognitive dysfunctions (impaired perception of the world around us), constipation, drowsiness, fatigue, dysarthia (speech disorder - poor articulation) and memory impairment.

Another disadvantage is the fact that Xanax is a prescription drug that cannot be purchased without a psychiatrist's recommendation.

When does it make sense to use Xanax?

Due to the numerous positive and negative effects, it is necessary to think carefully under which circumstances the use of Xanax will benefit us. Your psychiatrist will know best after you confide in him about your problem. Doctors prescribe this drug mainly for short-term use for severe forms of anxiety.

What positives and negatives can CBD hemp bring?

CBD pros and cons

CBD can certainly help with anxiety, but when is its use appropriate and when is it not recommended?

Effects of CBD

The beneficial therapeutic effects of CBD are supported by a number of professional studies, which indicate that the therapeutic potential of CBD hemp can also be used in the case of mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. If you don't want to put yourself at risk of addiction, you should definitely use it CBD oils or any other cannabis product to consider. Although we don't know as much about the beneficial benefits of CBD for anxiety as we do for Xanax, it doesn't change the fact that CBD has a very solid trump card up its sleeve that significantly promotes a good mental state.

In addition to anxiety and depression, CBD hemp can also be used for other psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, GAD or ADHD.

The unique advantage of cannabidiol is the absolutely minimal occurrence of side effects. In the case of the correct dosage, they are essentially zero, which certainly cannot be said for prescription drugs. In case of regular excessive use, we are at maximum risk of dry mouth, intestinal problems, increased sleepiness and fatigue. When we compare these side effects with the aforementioned list of Xanax side effects, it must be clear to us that CBD is significantly less invasive to our organism.

Another significant advantage is its availability. CBD drops, tinctures, flowers and other hemp products are sold freely. It should also be mentioned that CBD, unlike Xanax, does not impair cognitive function and does not create mental impairment, which unfortunately can occur with excessive use of Xanax.

Disadvantages of CBD for Anxiety

Their quality and composition play a significant role in the effectiveness of CBD products. Since the cannabis market is not regulated in any way in 2023, we should find out as much information as possible about the CBD store we want to buy from. In particular, customer reviews will help us, but also the labels of the products themselves, which should contain detailed information about the composition, use, etc.

Another disadvantage is potential interaction with other drugs, which we did not mention in the disadvantages of Xanax, however poses a risk in the case of both substances. The interaction of CBD with drugs can manifest itself by increasing or decreasing their effects.

However, in most cases, fortunately, cannabidiol does not collide with pharmaceutical preparations, so it is possible to use it in combination with each other. If you want to be really sure that the effects will not be strengthened or weakened, you can look at the web application, where you enter the medications you are taking and in a few seconds you will find out expert knowledge about possible interactions with CBD or THC.

Increased attention needs to be paid to this issue, especially in cases where we use strong psychiatric drugs, such as the Xanax discussed today. When using these two substances at the same time, we may experience feelings such as drowsiness, fatigue or nausea. In addition, however, no major side effects have been proven to date, even in the case of long-term CBD use.

When can CBD be a good choice?

CBD does not have such strong effects, therefore its use is ideal to consider especially in the case of milder anxiety disorders. However, we can use its potential even in stronger anxiety states. And this is especially so in cases where we reach for CBD oil with a higher concentration of the active substance, which we appropriately incorporate into the daily regime, which should, among other things, provide enough sleep, exercise (especially in nature) and vitamins and minerals. If we focus on all these aspects, we have a good chance of conquering anxiety with the help of CBD!

CBD is non-addictive and non-addictive. This greatly exceeds benzodiazepines or SSRI drugs. Therefore, the use of CBD is more sustainable, while at the same time avoiding more serious health risks.

Can I switch from Xanax to CBD?

Yes, in many cases reviewers report that they have been able to switch completely to CBD only. Other people, on the other hand, claim that thanks to the use of CBD, they also got to a dosage of Xanax, which does not threaten them with addiction. However, if you decide to replace Xanax with a CBD product, consult your psychiatrist first.

CBD cannot be used as a one-time replacement for Xanax, as each substance works a little differently. Since CBD is weaker, you may not feel its power right away. However, with long-term use, the effects you expect from CBD and which we describe here will appear, so you may not even turn to the help of drugs such as Xanax. Most patients report that it is ideal to stop Xanax by tapering off gradually, not overnight.

Can I take CBD and Xanax at the same time?

We shouldn't, but we can reduce the dosage of Xanax with CBD. However, this may increase side effects such as tiredness, dizziness, confusion or difficulty concentrating. Furthermore, for example, a decrease in motor coordination, thinking and judgment, these side effects are especially common in older people. 

If CBD and Xanax are taken at the same time, only with a few hours apart to minimize the risk of mutual interaction. However, we recommend that you first consult the situation with your attending physician.

What CBD product is best for anxiety?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to give a clear answer to this question. However, we strongly recommend that you buy it broad spectrum CBD oil, which, in addition to cannabidiol, also contains other equally important ones cannabinoids (e.g. CBG, CBN) and terpenes. According to current knowledge, hemp cannabinoids should be used in combination with each other in order to increase the resulting effect. We call this phenomenon the accompanying effect. Especially with strong forms of anxiety, it is important to remember this lesson!

None of the psychoactive cannabinoids and other derivatives are definitely not recommended for anxiety. On the contrary, they can make anxiety states and panic attacks worse! So forget about THC, HHC, H4CBD and all similar compounds.

CBD or Xanax?

After reading the article, you can answer this question yourself, taking into account your health and mental state. Xanax is a traditional, proven drug for the clinical treatment of anxiety, but it is also associated with many unwanted side effects, which means that its long-term use may not be appropriate. The milder instant effects of CBD, yet with proven therapeutic potential, are a guarantee of many times lower side effects and zero risk of addiction.

Do you need help?

If anything is not clear to you and/or you want advice on the selection, please write to us below in the comments below the post, via contact form or send us a question by e-mail info@miralecbd.cz. Thank you.

Our tip: look at map of branded cannabis stores Miracle CBD, where you have the unique opportunity to consult your needs with professionally trained staff from our team. We have all products in stock, so you don't have to wait for delivery by courier and you can take the products home the same day. We have been bringing you the unrivaled best CBD, HHC and kratom since 2020!

Klatovy store – Viennese 31 | Shop Ml. Boleslav – Železná 162 | Shop J. Hradec – Masarykovo nám. 1

Source: https://www.naturalwayscbd.com/blog/cbd-vs-xanax/

NOTICE: Cannabis and kratom products are exclusively for collector, industrial and technical purposes. Alternatively for further sale and processing. In no case are they intended for consumption, inhalation or smoking! The described effects are purely informative. Company Miracle CBD does not approve or otherwise support the abuse and sale of psychotropic and narcotic substances!