.png)
Human emotion is complex. Sometimes we feel things we can’t explain. They can be good feelings, like love. But they can also be unpleasant, like anxiety. Although this can be a normal reaction to a stressful situation, for some it can be more than a passing feeling.
Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder. Many people assume it’s a fear of open spaces, but it actually involves a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong. When in these situations, for example on public transport, in shopping centres or even just leaving home, someone with agoraphobia will usually experience a panic attack. Which is why they tend to avoid these spaces that cause anxiety, and instead stay home - hence the common misconception.
But as you can imagine, this can stop a person from properly living their life. So, what’s the solution if conventional treatments don’t work?
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website. Below we’ll be exploring medical cannabis for agoraphobia.
Can Medical Cannabis Help with Agoraphobia?
There is some evidence to suggest that medical cannabis may ease anxiety symptoms and support emotional regulation for patients with agoraphobia. Which is incredible, because it could mean they’re able to get out and live life again.
But this doesn’t mean research stops there. Evidence is still emerging, to fully discover the true potential of this incredible plant that may help where other treatments fail.
How Cannabis Affects Fear and Panic Responses
Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. They’re active compounds that can cause effects throughout the body, and you’ll see them often when researching medical cannabis. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
The endocannabinoid system, or the ECS, is a messenger and receptor system that is integral to homeostasis (the management of balance) within the human body. The ECS influences and modulates pretty much every single function within your body, directing, correcting and managing your overall health.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. They’re one of the main reasons behind why cannabis works so positively on so many different conditions. Many experts believe that, by consuming compounds like CBD and THC, it’s possible to interact with these receptors in the body, and ease symptoms of anxiety disorders like agoraphobia.
CBD is also able to interact with the serotonin (5-HT) receptor, meaning it could potentially help modulate serotonin, along with THC, and interact with GABA pathways too.
CBD vs THC for Agoraphobia Relief
A stereotype exists that CBD for agoraphobia and anxiety relief is effective, and THC for anxiety and agoraphobia will make symptoms worse. But that’s not true. Both THC and CBD are widely used to help ease symptoms of anxiety and agoraphobia. In a recent trial of 300 adults with anxiety, both THC and CBD-dominant cannabis helped reduce people’s anxiety.
The study also showed CBD had greater anti-inflammatory properties (and may translate to more long-term anxiety reduction), whereas THC had a more positive effect on mood.
But, did you know, THC and CBD for anxiety and agoraphobia may be greater together? Both cannabinoids can play a lead role on certain health conditions, and can sometimes work together to produce better effects, due to a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
It’s important to keep in mind that CBD is non-psychoactive, so will never cause intoxication. THC is psychoactive, so can be behind that “high” feeling when used recreationally. But, under the guidance of a professional, like the expert clinicians at Alternaelaf, safe controlled use is much easier.
When Is Medical Cannabis Prescribed for Agoraphobia in the UK?
Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 1st November 2018, but it needs to be prescribed by a specialist doctor, usually from a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf. To be eligible, you’ll need a diagnosis for a qualifying condition such as agoraphobia, and to have been offered at least two conventional treatments for this condition. This can include medication, talking therapy, physiotherapy, surgery and anything else prescribed by your GP.
You may be looking at medical cannabis, as you found the above to be ineffective or poorly tolerated. But keep in mind you don’t need to have tried any of the above - we understand there are plenty of valid and fair reasons why you may turn down a prescription. So, as long as they’ve been offered, it’s enough to qualify.
Just because it’s legal in the UK, doesn’t mean it’s legal everywhere. It is always a good idea to check if you’re travelling somewhere, what their rules and laws are around medical cannabis.
Agoraphobia is one of 50+ conditions we can prescribe medical cannabis for at Alternaleaf. Other conditions include chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD or autism. We offer expert guidance throughout your medical cannabis journey to ensure safe and effective use. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second questionnaire.
Combining Cannabis with Therapy for Better Outcomes
Some people may find medical cannabis works well alongside Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a type of talking therapy that usually involves discussing thoughts, emotions, and behavior, and how they connect with each other. It can help change how you think and act - something someone suffering from agoraphobia may want to achieve.
Sometimes continuing this type of treatment, alongside a medical cannabis prescription, can enhance results, and be the most effective at easing symptoms.
Which Cannabis Products Are Best for Agoraphobia?
It’s hard to say what the best form of medical Cannabis for anxiety relief is, because it can affect every individual differently. But some forms that may ease symptoms of agoraphobia include:
Inhaling: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. However, remember that smoking your prescription is illegal in the UK and could lead to lung damage. So, if your preferred method is inhalation, purchasing a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf is the best solution.
Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. This method is ideal for longer-lasting relief - so may be better for someone with agoraphobia.
Oils/Tinctures: This is a popular choice for patients who want discretion. Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last, up to 24 hours in some cases.
But everyone is different, and it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you and your condition. Guidance from an expert, like our friendly clinicians at Alternaleaf, will mean you’ve got someone by your side every step of the way, with advice and knowledge readily available.
Risks and Precautions When Using Cannabis for Anxiety Disorders
Just like with any other medicine, some people can experience side effects from medical cannabis. Most common side effects are short-term, and should wear off within a few hours. These include:
- Coughing
- Bloodshot or irritated eyes
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth or thirst
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea
- Feeling tired
- Blurred vision
If you experience any side effects, or if short-term side effects persist, stop taking your medication immediately, and speak to your clinician.
As with any other medication, it’s important to use safely and responsibly. Our advice is to always start low and go slow. This allows new patients to get used to their medicines with minimal side effects and disruption to everyday life. And of course, follow the advice of your clinician. They’ll work with you and advise on the best levels of CBD and THC for your condition. Remember, you may not get it right the first time. It’s important to find a dose that’s suitable for your body and individual needs, so that you can get the most effective results and reduce the chance of side effects.
Summary
So, if you’re asking questions like: ‘does cannabis help with social anxiety?’ and ‘does cannabis help with panic attacks?’ the answer is potentially. We’ve explored above how there is some evidence that shows some potential benefits of medical cannabis for anxiety in the UK and how it may help ease some of the symptoms of agoraphobia. But, every individual is different and a lot more research is needed.
The best thing to do is speak to your Doctor or clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.