What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

From the Guidelines

CBD, or cannabidiol, should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, starting with a low dose of 5-10mg once or twice daily, due to potential risks of hepatotoxicity, interactions with other medications, and long-term side effects. When considering CBD use, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, particularly in vulnerable populations such as older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with a history of substance use disorder 1.

Key Considerations for CBD Use

• CBD is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topicals, with oils being the most versatile for dose adjustment
• Full-spectrum CBD products contain small amounts of other cannabinoids, including trace THC (less than 0.3%), while broad-spectrum and CBD isolate products contain no THC
• CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate functions like pain, inflammation, mood, and sleep
• Common uses include managing anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, and sleep issues
• Side effects are generally mild but may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite

Potential Risks and Long-term Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: CBD presents risks for hepatotoxicity, particularly at high doses, with a meta-analysis reporting a nearly 6-fold increase in liver enzyme elevation and drug-induced liver injury 1
• Interactions with other medications: CBD can interact with certain drugs that are metabolized by the liver, and healthcare providers should be consulted before beginning CBD use, especially in individuals taking other medications
• Long-term side effects: Chronic cannabis use carries long-term psychiatric risks, including an increased risk for developing depressive disorders and exacerbating psychiatric disorders in vulnerable individuals 1
• Driving safety: Cannabis users are at higher risk of motor vehicle accidents, and cannabis use while driving remains a serious topic to discuss with adults using cannabis and/or cannabinoids 1

Recommendations for Safe CBD Use

• Start with CBD from reputable sources and consult a healthcare provider before beginning CBD use
• Look for CBD products with third-party lab testing to ensure quality and accurate CBD content
• Gradually increase CBD dose as needed and monitor for side effects
• Be aware of potential interactions with other medications and long-term side effects
• Discuss driving safety and other risks with a healthcare provider before beginning CBD use

From the FDA Drug Label

Use Helps in temporary pain relief The answer to CBD-n is not directly provided in the given drug labels.

• Pain relief is mentioned as a use for cannabidiol.
• There is no information about CBD-n. 2 and 2

From the Research

CBD Overview

• CBD, or cannabidiol, is a primary constituent of hemp and cannabis, with a growing industry and consumer interest in its therapeutic potential 3.
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved one CBD product, Epidiolex®, to date, highlighting the need for more research on CBD's efficacy and safety 3.

Therapeutic Efficacy

• There is clear evidence supporting the use of CBD to treat epilepsy, but evidence for other health conditions is often mixed or lacking 3.
• CBD has been investigated for its potential therapeutic effects on anxiety, pain/inflammation, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other conditions 3, 4.
• High-dose oral CBD (150-600 mg/d) may exert a therapeutic effect for social anxiety disorder, insomnia, and epilepsy, but may also cause mental sedation 4.

Safety and Side Effects

• CBD is generally considered well-tolerated, but may have adverse effects such as liver toxicity, drug-drug interactions, and decreased appetite 5, 6.
• A systematic review and meta-analysis found that CBD was associated with an increased likelihood of withdrawal, serious adverse events, and adverse events such as diarrhea and somnolence 5.
• Chronic use and high doses of CBD (up to 1,500 mg/day) are reportedly well-tolerated in humans, but further studies are needed to clarify potential side effects 6.

Regulation and Future Directions

• Current regulations on CBD use in consumer products are uncertain and often conflict between state and federal levels 7.
• There is a need for more research on the benefits, safety, and regulation of CBD in consumer products, as well as awareness of the current state-of-the-science on CBD's health effects and safety 7.