Written from the studies on PubMed, searched on 2026. nov. 11.. Every number below comes from a study listed under Sources.
The claim
Posts online say that CBD (cannabidiol) helps with bipolar disorder.
Where research stands
We found 7 published papers on CBD (cannabidiol) and bipolar disorder. They were published between 2007 and 2025. 1 of them is a study in people. 1 of them compared people who got it with a group that did not. 1 was a study in animals, and none was only in cells in the lab. 2 new studies in people are running or will start soon, says the trial register ClinicalTrials.gov.
- 1In people1 with a comparison group
- 1In animals
- 0Only in the lab
What the studies found
We have not summed up these studies in words yet. The most important papers are listed under Sources.
Verdict
CBD (cannabidiol) has been tested in randomised trials in people with bipolar disorder.
What this means for you: A study in people is not proof that it helps you. Do not stop or change your medicines because of it. Ask your doctor before you start taking it.
Sources
- Cannabidiol as an Adjunctive Treatment for Acute Bipolar Depression: A Pilot Study: Le cannabidiol comme traitement d'appoint de la dépression bipolaire aiguë : une étude pilote.2024 · Can J Psychiatry · Randomised trial
- Effects of cannabidiol on amphetamine-induced oxidative stress generation in an animal model of mania.2011 · J Psychopharmacol · In animals
- Cannabidiol Induced Manic Episode: A Case Report.2025 · Psychopharmacol Bull · Other paper
- Cannabidiol for Mood Disorders: A Call for More Research.2021 · Can J Psychiatry · Other paper
- Dispensary cannabidiol marijuana and first-episode mania.2018 · J Psychiatry Neurosci · Other paper
- Cannabidiol was ineffective for manic episode of bipolar affective disorder.2010 · J Psychopharmacol · Other paper
