In recent years, CBD products have gained significant popularity for their potential health benefits, ranging from pain management to anxiety relief. As interest in these products continues to grow, it’s essential to address a critical question: Are CBD products safe? Here’s what we know from the latest research and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The difference between CBD and THC
It’s important to know the difference between CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana. THC gives people a “high” after using marijuana. While CBD is also present in marijuana, it doesn’t cause intoxication or euphoria.
Does CBD have health benefits?
CBD is sold in dietary supplements, creams, pills, capsules, edibles and vaping liquids. While many distributors say CBD improves a variety of health conditions, such as inflammation, acne, cancer, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and insomnia, there is little medical data to support these claims.
Reputable studies have found evidence that CBD can help treat certain forms of childhood epilepsy syndromes. More research is needed to understand CBD’s effects on other health conditions.
The risks of using CBD products
We do not have enough research to prove CBD helps alleviate health issues. Additionally, there is a lack of oversight and regulation of CBD products in the United States. Just because CBD products are available for purchase doesn’t mean they are safe. There is a wide variation in quality and extraction processes.
The FDA says CBD can cause liver injury, interact with other medications and increase the risk of injury when used with alcohol or other depressants.
Additionally, we don’t know the long-term effects of CBD use, how it affects the developing brain of children, how it affects fetuses and infants, and if it causes male reproductive toxicity in humans (as shown in animal studies).
Can CBD cause a positive drug test?
While it’s unlikely, it’s technically possible. Since the CBD industry isn’t well-regulated, many CBD products aren’t labeled accurately. This means you could potentially ingest THC from CBD products. Studies have shown that low levels of THC can build up in the bloodstream over time, which could theoretically result in a failed drug test.
A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that 18 of 84 samples of CBD products purchased online contained THC. The study also found that 43% of products contained less than the labeled amount of CBD and only 31% of products were accurately labeled.
The bottom line: There isn’t enough research to support CBD health claims and prove the products are safe. If you have health concerns, talk to your primary care provider first. To find a provider near you, visit pardeehospital.org.
