- 1 Key Points
- 2 The Emotional Maze: Navigating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- 3 Exploring Medical Marijuana for BPD
- 4 Does Weed Help BPD? What We Know
- 5 Can Weed Help BPD? Risks and Side Effects
- 6 Medical vs. Black Market Weed: Understanding the Differences for BPD Treatment
- 7 Key Takeaway: Medical Marijuana for BPD
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions
- 9 References
Key Points
- BPD is a complex neurological condition characterised by emotional instability, impulsivity, and unstable relationships.
- Traditional treatments for BPD include psychotherapy and medications, but they don’t always provide complete relief.
- Medical marijuana, particularly THC and CBD, is being explored as a potential adjunct therapy for BPD due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system.
- Preliminary studies suggest that medical weed may help alleviate BPD symptoms like anger, irritability, depressed mood, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and suicidal thoughts/urges.
- High THC levels can sometimes worsen BPD symptoms, and there’s a potential link between BPD and Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD).
Ever felt like your emotions were a rollercoaster you couldn’t get off?
That’s a daily reality for millions struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). While traditional treatments like medication and therapy may offer some relief, they don’t always hit the mark. This has led many individuals to search for alternative options, including the controversial yet promising world of medical cannabis.
Could medical cannabis be the missing piece in the BPD treatment puzzle?
It’s a complex question with no easy answers. Medical marijuana for BPD is showing potential in managing some of the disorder’s most challenging symptoms, but it’s not without risks and uncertainties.
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), also known as Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), isn’t just another mental health condition; it’s an experience marked by intense and persistent instability in moods, behaviour, self-image, and functioning. These hallmarks can last from a few hours to days.
According to a report by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), BPD affects about 1.6% of the population, though this figure could be as high as 5.9% due to underreporting and misdiagnosis. [1] In the UK, Mental Health UK estimates that 1 in 100 people have BPD. [2]
Symptoms
BPD’s symptoms extend far beyond simple mood changes. They manifest in a complex interplay of emotional, behavioural, and interpersonal challenges:
- Intense and unstable emotions: Rapid shifts between extreme happiness, sadness, anger, and anxiety. These emotional storms can last hours or even days.
- Fear of abandonment: Desperate attempts to avoid real or imagined separation from loved ones, often leading to clingy or needy behaviour.
- Unstable relationships: Idealising or devaluing others, leading to intense and tumultuous connections that quickly burn out.
- Impulsive behaviours: Engaging in risky activities without considering the consequences, such as substance abuse, reckless overspending, or unsafe sex.
- Self-harm and suicidal thoughts: Frequent thoughts of self-harm or suicide, sometimes acted upon in moments of intense emotional pain.
- Chronic feelings of emptiness: A persistent sense of inner emptiness or meaninglessness.
- Difficulty controlling anger: Frequent outbursts of rage, sarcasm, or bitterness, often triggered by seemingly minor events.
- Stress-related paranoia: Temporary paranoid thoughts or dissociative symptoms (feeling disconnected from reality) during periods of high stress.
While there’s no quick fix for these distressing symptoms, some natural ways to help anxiety can offer temporary relief and support. However, professional treatment is essential for managing BPD effectively.
Current Treatments and Approaches
The current treatment landscape for EUPD is a multi-faceted approach, often combining various therapies and medications to address the diverse range of symptoms:
| Treatment | Description | Limitations |
| Safety Planning | Collaborative development of strategies to prevent self-harm and suicidal behaviours. | Requires ongoing commitment and may not address underlying emotional dysregulation. |
| Psychotherapy | Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) teaches skills for managing emotions, relationships, and distress tolerance. | Requires time, effort, and access to trained therapists. Not all individuals respond equally well to DBT. |
| Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT) | Focuses on understanding one’s own and others’ mental states to improve emotional regulation and relationships. | Requires a high level of cognitive ability and may not be suitable for everyone with BPD. |
| Medications | Second-generation antipsychotics, mood stabilisers, and omega-3 fatty acids may help manage specific symptoms. | Medications can have adverse effects and may not address the core issues of BPD. They are often used in conjunction with other therapies. |
These traditional treatments, while helpful, don’t always provide complete relief for everyone with BPD. This is where medical marijuana for BPD enters the conversation, offering a potential adjunct therapy to complement existing treatments and address the unmet needs of those struggling with this complex disorder.
Exploring Medical Marijuana for BPD
Medical weed is emerging as a potential ally in the fight against BPD, offering hope for those who haven’t found complete relief through traditional treatments. The therapeutic properties of cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, are now being explored for their role in alleviating the many complex symptoms of this condition.
Medical Cannabis and Its Cannabinoids
Cannabis contains over 100+ identified chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. These cannabinoids interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors, neurotransmitters, and compounds that aid in maintaining homeostasis and well-being.
Two of the most prominent cannabinoids are:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): The psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for inducing “high” associated with marijuana use. THC also has potential therapeutic properties, such as appetite stimulation, pain relief, and nausea reduction.
- Cannabidiol (CBD): A non-psychoactive cannabinoid gaining recognition for its potential anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and antipsychotic properties.
The ECS is a key player in regulating various bodily functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, pain sensation, and immune response.
It consists of two types of receptors:
- CB1 Receptors (CB1R): Primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, CB1 receptors are involved in mood regulation, memory, and cognitive function.
- CB2 Receptors (CB2R): Mainly located in the immune system and peripheral tissues, CB2 receptors play a role in inflammation and pain perception.
Besides THC and CBD, the ECS also generates its own cannabinoids called endocannabinoids. Among the most recognised is anandamide, commonly dubbed the “bliss molecule” for its role in promoting happiness and well-being.
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in BPD
| ECS Component | Function | Impact on BPD |
| CB1 Receptors | Modulate neurotransmitter release | Helps terminate arousal states, emotional recovery |
| HPA Axis | Regulates stress response | Influences stress reactivity, crucial for BPD |
| Amygdala-PFC Circuit | Decision-making and emotional response | Abnormal function linked to BPD symptoms |
| Neuroinflammation | Immune modulation | Increased inflammation linked to BPD impulsivity |
BPD is deeply intertwined with the body’s ECS, which plays a role in the regulation of mood, stress response, and overall emotional balance. Understanding how the ECS functions can shed light on the potential use cases of medical marijuana for BPD.
CB1 Receptors, HPA Axis, and Stress Regulation
The ECS is abundantly located within the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, regions rich in CB1 receptors. These receptors may help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the body’s cornerstone for managing stress responses. A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology Reviews suggests that dysregulation of the HPA axis is often linked to heightened stress reactivity, a hallmark trait in individuals with BPD. [3]
| Component | Role | Impact on BPD |
| CB1 Receptors | Found in the brain; regulates mood and stress. | Potentially mitigates heightened stress reactivity |
| HPA Axis | Coordinates stress response; controlled by the ECS. | Dysregulation is associated with BPD symptoms |
EUPD and the Amygdala-PFC Circuit
One key hypothesis from a 2020 study in Neuropsychopharmacology posits that EUPD arises from abnormal functioning in the amygdala-prefrontal cortex (PFC) circuit source. This brain pathway is crucial for emotional regulation and impulse control. [4]
According to a clinical trial from Translational Psychiatry, cannabinoids can help rebalance this crucial neural pathway. THC and CBD can either directly activate cannabinoid receptors or restore endocannabinoid signalling. [5]
Neuroinflammation and Cannabinoid Therapy
Chronic inflammation may be linked to various neurological conditions, including EUPD. A 2020 clinical study published in Psychiatry Research suggests that in individuals with BPD, elevated inflammation and reduced antioxidant activity are associated with increased impulsivity. [6]
Cannabinoids have been studied for their ability to reduce inflammation in the body. They work by influencing the immune system in ways that go beyond the typical cannabinoid receptors. This opens up another potential avenue for medical marijuana to help treat BPD. [7]
Does Weed Help BPD? What We Know
While research on medical marijuana for BPD is still in its early stages, promising findings suggest that weed, particularly the combination of THC and CBD, may offer relief for some of the disorder’s most challenging symptoms.
THC-CBD May Help With BPD Symptoms
A 2022 clinical study published in Brain Sciences explored the use of medical marijuana for BPD with varying THC and CBD ratios in individuals with the condition. The results were promising: six out of seven participants reported significant symptom improvement, including reductions in anxiety, mood swings, and impulsivity. [8]
Participants used different cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) for one month. Improvement was measured using two scales:
- CGI-I (Clinical Global Impression-Improvement): Measures overall improvement on a scale from 1 to 7, where 1 signifies “very much improved” and 7 is “very much worse.”
- PGIC (Patients’ Global Impression of Change): Assesses patients’ perception of improvement on a scale from 1 to 7, where 1 is “no change or worse” and 7 is “a great deal better.”
| Participant | Dosage | Side Effects | Clinical Improvement (CGI-I) | Patient-Perceived Improvement (PGIC) |
| 1 | Dried flower, 15-20% THC, 30g/month | None | Slight improvement (2) | Significant improvement (6) |
| 2 | Oral extract, 10 mg/mL THC, 15 mg/mL CBD twice a day; Dried flower, 20% THC, 20g/month | None | Slight improvement (2) | Moderate improvement (5) |
| 3 | Dried flower, 20% THC, 30g/month | None | Slight improvement (2) | Significant improvement (6) |
| 4 | Dried flower, 15-20% THC, 60g/month | None | Slight improvement (2) | Significant improvement (6) |
| 5 | Oral extract, 10 mg/mL THC, 12.5 mg/mL CBD three times a day | None | Moderate improvement (4) | No improvement (1) |
| 6 | Dried flower, 20% THC, 30g/month | None | Slight improvement (2) | Significant improvement (6) |
| 7 | Oral extract, 100 mg/mL CBD once a day | None | Slight improvement (2) | Significant improvement (6) |
The key takeaways from this landmark study include:
- No side effects: None of the participants reported side effects from the cannabis medication.
- Improvement scores: Most participants showed slight to moderate improvement in their BPD symptoms.
- Dosage varied: Participants used both dried flower and oral extracts with varying THC and CBD concentrations.
CBD and Comorbid Symptoms
Beyond these core BPD symptoms, CBD’s potential to address co-occurring conditions is particularly noteworthy:
- Social withdrawal: Research from Recent Patents on CNS Drug Discovery indicates that CBD can improve social withdrawal symptoms in animal models of schizophrenia. [9] Moreover, the non-psychoactive cannabinoid can help reduce anxiety in various disorders. These findings suggest that CBD could also positively impact the social aspects of BPD. If you’re curious about how cannabis influences social interactions, check out this post on how does weed affect you socially.
- Depression: CBD has been investigated for its antidepressant effects. By interacting with serotonin receptors, this cannabinoid can help lift mood and combat depressive episodes. Explore the best weed for depression in our in-depth blog post.
Can Weed Help BPD? Risks and Side Effects
While the potential advantages of medical marijuana for BPD are promising, it’s crucial to address the potential risk factors and adverse effects associated with weed consumption, especially for those with this complex mental health condition.
Psychological Effects
High THC levels in cannabis can sometimes exacerbate BPD symptoms, particularly in individuals prone to psychosis or paranoia. Some common side effects of high THC consumption include:
- Increased anxiety: Ironically, while cannabis can temporarily relieve anxiety in some individuals, high doses of THC can trigger anxiety or panic attacks in others.
- Paranoia: THC can induce paranoid thoughts and feelings of persecution, especially in those with a predisposition to these symptoms.
- Worsening of mood swings: In some cases, THC can intensify emotional instability and mood swings, making it harder to manage BPD symptoms.
- Cognitive impairment: High THC doses can temporarily impair memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.
CUD and BPD: Causation or Correlation?
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a condition characterised by problematic weed use that leads to significant impairment or distress. While research suggests a link between CUD and BPD, it’s unclear whether one causes the other or if there are underlying factors contributing to both conditions.
Interestingly, CUD is often observed in patients with BPD. A 2019 study published in Addiction found that individuals with BPD were more likely to develop CUD compared to those without BPD. [10]
However, this link appears to be more correlational rather than causal. The inherent impulsivity and emotional instability in BPD patients may drive them toward cannabis use as a coping mechanism rather than marijuana use directly causing BPD.
The stigma surrounding weed medication, particularly in individuals with preexisting mental health conditions, necessitates more in-depth studies to unravel the complexities of this neurological relationship.
Lack of Studies
Despite the expanding interest in the therapeutic potential of CBD and THC for mental health conditions, scientific and clinical studies focusing specifically on the use of medical marijuana for BPD are sparse. While there are numerous studies on cannabinoids for anxiety, depression, and PTSD, BPD remains under-researched.
This gap in research highlights the need for targeted studies to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and optimal formulations of medical marijuana for BPD.
Medical vs. Black Market Weed: Understanding the Differences for BPD Treatment
When considering medical marijuana for BPD, it’s crucial to understand the stark differences between regulated medical products and those obtained from illicit sources. Your choice can significantly impact your well-being and treatment outcomes.
| Feature | Medical Weed | Illicit Weed |
| Quality Control | Rigorous testing for potency, purity, and absence of contaminants. | No quality assurance; potential for contamination with harmful substances. |
| Strain Selection | Wide variety of strains with known cannabinoid profiles tailored for specific needs. | Limited options; unknown composition and effects. |
| Dosage and Administration | Precise dosage and various consumption methods (e.g., oils, edibles, vaporisers). | Inconsistent dosing; primarily smoked, leading to potential lung irritation. |
| Professional Guidance | Access to healthcare professionals for personalised treatment plans and monitoring. | No professional guidance; potential for misuse and adverse reactions. |
With legal products, you have access to a wide range of medications tailored to your specific needs and can rely on professional guidance for optimal therapeutic outcomes. In contrast, illicit products lack quality control, standardised dosing, and professional oversight, posing significant risks to your health and well-being.
Why Choose Us for Medical Marijuana to Treat BPD
At Lyphe, our priority is providing safe and legal access to medical marijuana specifically geared towards treating mental health conditions. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Skilled physicians: As pioneers in the UK for medical cannabis treatment, our doctors have extensive experience in prescribing medical marijuana for BPD.
- Completely digital process: Enjoy the convenience of handling everything online—from booking consultations to receiving your prescriptions, with home delivery for your medication.
- Comprehensive patient support: Our patient advisors are ready to assist and support you throughout your treatment journey, whether for follow-up appointments or reordering medication.
- Reliable medication supply: Through our partnership with Gro-Vida, we ensure a steady and dependable supply of medical cannabis for managing your BPD symptoms.
Book your online appointment today and take the first step towards managing BPD with medical marijuana.
Key Takeaway: Medical Marijuana for BPD
Exploring both the pros and cons of medical marijuana for BPD reveals a promising yet complex landscape. On the one hand, cannabinoids like THC and CBD show potential in alleviating key symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings, and impulsivity.
On the other hand, concerns about side effects and dependency highlight the need for regulated, high-quality products. Balancing these factors is crucial for an effective and safe treatment plan.
Nonetheless, consulting with experienced professionals remains essential to navigate these options safely. To explore personalised treatment plans, book an appointment with Lyphe and take the next step towards managing BPD with expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective drug for BPD?
No single drug is universally the most effective for treating BPD, as the condition varies widely among individuals. However, mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants are commonly prescribed to manage specific symptoms.
Why is BPD life expectancy 27?
EUPD can be associated with a reduced life expectancy due to higher risks of suicide, self-harm, and comorbid conditions like substance abuse. Early intervention and treatment are crucial to improving outcomes and longevity for those with BPD.
What is the best support for BPD?
The best support for BPD typically involves psychotherapy and learning coping skills. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is often recommended.
How to calm BPD rage?
To calm BPD rage, practising mindfulness techniques and engaging in dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) skills can be effective. Additionally, deep breathing exercises and taking a time-out to cool down can help manage intense emotions.
What is the best strain for borderline personality disorder?
High-CBD medical marijuana for BPD strains is often considered beneficial for managing symptoms of EUPD due to its calming and non-psychoactive effects. For more information on why the traditional indica vs. sativa classification might not be relevant, check out the myth of Indica vs. Sativa.
References
- Mendez-Miller, M., Naccarato, J., & Radico, J. A. (2022). Borderline Personality Disorder. American Family Physician, 105(2), 156–161.
- What is borderline personality disorder?. Mental Health UK. (2020, June 25). https://mentalhealth-uk.org/help-and-information/conditions/borderline-personality-disorder/what-is-bpd/
- Morena, M., Patel, S., Bains, J. S., & Hill, M. N. (2015). Neurobiological Interactions Between Stress and the Endocannabinoid System. Neuropsychopharmacology, 41(1), 80-102. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2015.166
- Kolla, N. J., Mizrahi, R., Karas, K., Wang, C., Bagby, R. M., McMain, S., Simpson, A. I., Rusjan, P. M., Tyndale, R., Houle, S., & Boileau, I. (2020). Elevated fatty acid amide hydrolase in the prefrontal cortex of borderline personality disorder: A [11C]CURB positron emission tomography study. Neuropsychopharmacology, 45(11), 1834-1841. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-020-0731-y
- Leweke, F. M., Piomelli, D., Pahlisch, F., Muhl, D., Gerth, C. W., Hoyer, C., Klosterkötter, J., Hellmich, M., & Koethe, D. (2012). Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia. Translational Psychiatry, 2(3). https://doi.org/10.1038/tp.2012.15
- MacDowell, K. S., Marsá, M. D., Buenache, E., Villatoro, J. M. L., Moreno, B., Leza, J. C., & Carrasco, J. L. (2020). Inflammatory and antioxidant pathway dysfunction in borderline personality disorder. Psychiatry Research, 284, 112782. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.112782
- Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future Medicinal Chemistry, 1(7), 1333–1349. https://doi.org/10.4155/fmc.09.93
- Sultan, W., Mathew, A., Brown, M. R., & F., J. (2022). Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products in the Management of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD): A Narrative Review and Case Series. Brain Sciences, 12(11), 1467. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12111467
- Kucerova, J., Tabiova, K., Drago, F., & Micale, V. (2014). Therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in schizophrenia. Recent Patents on CNS Drug Discovery, 9(1), 13–25. https://doi.org/10.2174/1574889809666140307115532
- Gillespie, N. A., Aggen, S. H., Neale, M. C., Knudsen, G. P., Krueger, R. F., South, S. C., Czajkowski, N., Nesvåg, R., Ystrom, E., Kendler, K. S., & Reichborn-Kjennerud, T. (2018). Associations between personality disorders and cannabis use and cannabis use disorder: A population-based twin study. Addiction, 113(8), 1488-1498. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.14209
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Disclaimer
The content provided on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly advise readers to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
To reflect its medicinal nature rather than recreational use, we prefer the term ‘medical cannabis’ over terms such as ‘marijuana’, “grass”. or ‘dope’ which may carry negative connotations.
The opinions expressed in the blog belong to the respective authors, who are not medical professionals, and may not necessarily align with those of Lyphe Clinic. Lyphe Clinic does not endorse any specific products or services mentioned, except those provided through Lyphe Clinic.
Readers should be aware that the legality of medical cannabis varies by location, and this disclaimer may be subject to periodic updates.
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