At a glance:
- CBD (Cannabidiol) is a compound found in cannabis. It is not impairing, meaning it does not cause a “high.”
- Scientists are still learning about how CBD affects the body.
- Using CBD is not risk-free and may cause side effects.
- Many businesses sell both CBD and THC products, so individuals should be careful not to confuse them.
CBD Use in the United States
CBD can be derived from both hemp and non-hemp cannabis plants. Hemp is legally defined as any cannabis plant containing no more than 0.3% THC (the mind-altering compound in cannabis).
The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 effectively legalized CBD derived from hemp at the federal level. However, the legality of CBD products varies by state, as some states still regulate hemp under controlled substance laws.
CBD is available in a variety of consumer products, such as:
- Foods
- Oils
- Lotions
- Capsules
- Cosmetics
How CBD Affects Health
Is CBD a Medicine?
Scientists are still researching the effects of CBD on the body. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a purified CBD product, for treating rare seizure disorders, proving it to be safe and effective for that specific use. However, most CBD products and their uses are not FDA-approved.
Potential Side Effects and Risks:
The FDA has limited data on CBD’s safety. Possible side effects and risks include:
- Liver damage
- Interference with other drugs, leading to serious side effects
- Drowsiness or sleepiness
- Diarrhea or appetite changes
- Mood changes, such as irritability
CBD Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Using CBD during pregnancy is not recommended, as the potential health effects are unknown. High doses of CBD have been shown to negatively affect developing fetuses in animal studies. It is also unclear if CBD passes through breast milk, so those who are breastfeeding are advised to avoid CBD.
Protecting Children from CBD
There is little information on how CBD affects children’s developing brains. Keep all CBD or THC products in childproof containers and out of the reach of children to prevent accidental exposure.
Unanswered Questions About CBD
There is still a lot unknown about CBD, such as how it affects a person over time and how different forms of use (smoking, vaping, consuming, or applying topically) impact the body.
Risk of Unintentional Poisoning
CBD products may be contaminated with THC, pesticides, heavy metals, or other harmful substances, especially since many are not FDA-regulated. Products labeled as “hemp” or “CBD” may contain unlisted ingredients, including THC.
In 2021, the CDC issued a Health Advisory warning consumers about the risks of synthetic conversion of CBD into Delta-8 THC, which is psychoactive and poorly understood. Consumers should be cautious of products containing insufficient labeling regarding THC and CBD content.
For more information or in case of an emergency, contact your healthcare provider, local health department, or the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
