“Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a widespread and debilitating condition affecting a significant portion of the global population.

Traditional treatment for MDD has primarily involved drugs that increase brain monoamines by inhibiting their uptake or metabolism, which is the basis for the monoaminergic hypothesis of depression. However, these treatments are only partially effective, with many patients experiencing delayed responses, residual symptoms, or complete non-response, rendering the current view of the hypothesis as reductionist.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has shown promising results in preclinical models and human studies. Its mechanism is not well-understood, but may involve monoamine and endocannabinoid signaling, control of neuroinflammation and enhanced neuroplasticity. This chapter will explore CBD’s effects in preclinical and clinical studies, its molecular mechanisms, and its potential as a treatment for MDD.”

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39029987/

“CBD exhibits a multi-pharmacological profile with a complex and not fully understood mechanism of action. It engages some pathways similar to those targeted by other antidepressant drugs, such as the facilitation of serotonergic and BDNF-TrkB signaling. However, it also activates distinct pathways that differ from traditional antidepressants.”

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0074774224000850?via%3Dihub