Questionable claims about CBD
Some manufacturers market CBD products as having a variety of health benefits for both humans and pets, but most of these claims are unsubstantiated.1 The FDA has issued warning letters to several manufacturers who have marketed CBD products as producing therapeutic effects.5
Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, any products intended to have a therapeutic effect are considered drugs, and unapproved drugs cannot be distributed or sold in interstate commerce.1 Cannabidiol products cannot be sold as dietary supplements.1 In addition, food products containing CBD cannot be introduced or delivered for introduction into interstate commerce.1 Many CBD products do not contain the amount of CBD advertised, and some contain contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals.1 Also, CBD products can affect the therapeutic effectiveness of prescription medications.
Discuss CBD with your patients
Ask your patients if they use CBD and, if so, find out which product(s), the quantity and frequency of use, and any effects they have experienced from using them. Patients can report any adverse effects from CBD products to the FDA’s MedWatch program (www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/). Tell your patients that there is limited or inconclusive evidence regarding the therapeutic efficacy of over-the-counter CBD products for any medical or psychiatric condition. Encourage your patients to be open with you about using these products, so you can make appropriate treatment decisions.