06/05/2025
The more ya know!
💬 Each week, a SAFE Licensed Clinical Social Worker answers questions about mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, and more. 👇 Check out this week’s Q&A!
Q: How does cannabis interact with anti-depressant medication?
A: Most of the research indicates that combining SSRIs (the most commonly prescribed anti-depressants such as Zoloft, Prozac, Celexa) with cannabis can increase the risk and intensity of side effects (drowsiness, dry-mouth, weight gain, lightheadedness) Cannabis can also impact how medication is metabolized in the body, which can make depressive symptoms worse, especially when used in high doses. Some research also shows an increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts in people who use cannabis during adolescence. In short: we don't have a ton of research that indicates cannabis use while taking an SSRI is inherently risky in itself; however, given the symptoms of depression (sadness, hopelessness, low energy & motivation, etc.), and the possible impacts of cannabis use on the brain and mood (difficulty focusing, poor memory, decreased processing speed), combining the two is unlikely to improve the symptoms of depression.
View past Q&As and submit questions at: safecoalitionma.org/ask-safe