As an expert in the field, I have been asked countless times about the controversy surrounding CBD and its classification as a drug. With so much conflicting information out there, it can be challenging to determine the truth about this compound. So, let's dive into the facts and clear up any confusion. First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that CBD is an approved prescription drug. This means that it cannot legally be included in food or dietary supplements.
The only products that can legally contain CBD are cosmetic products. However, despite these regulations, there are still many CBD products on the market that are labeled as dietary supplements. So, what exactly is CBD? Cannabidiol is a compound found in marijuana. Unlike its counterpart THC, CBD is harmless and does not cause a “high”. In fact, it has been found to have numerous potential health benefits.
At Mayo Clinic, we offer appointments in Arizona, Florida, and Minnesota, as well as at our headquarters at Mayo Clinic Health System. One of the most well-known uses of CBD is as an anti-seizure medication. In fact, a prescription CBD oil called Epidiolex has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat two types of epilepsy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the other potential benefits and safety of CBD.It's important to note that CBD does not contain THC, the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that produces a “high”. The most common form of CBD is oil, but it can also be sold as an extract, vaporized liquid, or oil-based capsule.
In recent years, there has been a surge in CBD-infused products such as food, drinks, and beauty products available for purchase online. As mentioned earlier, the only FDA-approved CBD product is Epidiolex. However, state laws regarding the use of CBD vary. While it is being studied as a potential treatment for a wide range of conditions, including Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety, the research supporting its benefits is still limited. One of the biggest concerns surrounding CBD is the lack of regulation and consistency in purity and dosage. A recent study found that over a quarter of CBD products purchased online contained less CBD than what was stated on the label.
Additionally, 18 products were found to contain THC. This is why it's important to talk to your doctor before using any products that contain CBD.Another issue to consider is the potential for failing a drug test while using CBD. While drug tests do not detect CBD because it does not cause intoxicating effects and is not an illegal controlled substance, there is still a risk of contamination with THC or incorrect labeling on products. This is especially important for individuals who are required to take drug tests for work or other purposes. Now, let's address the question at hand: Is CBD considered a drug? The answer ultimately depends on your definition of the word “medicine”.
If you are referring to a substance that can be used for medicinal purposes, then yes, many people would consider CBD to be a medication that promotes overall health and well-being. This belief is supported by a growing body of research that highlights the broad medicinal, therapeutic, and wellness qualities of CBD. In fact, when examining the legality of measures that restrict the free movement of goods within the European Union (EU), the court declared that CBD extracted from cannabis is not considered a drug according to the 1961 Convention. Additionally, EU regulations on industrial hemp do not apply to CBD extract since it is not considered an agricultural product under their definitions. This has led to confusion about the legal status of CBD oil, with some questioning if it is a Schedule I substance restricted by the federal government or if it is now legal at the federal level. It's important to note that CBD products that contain THC can still cause a person to fail a drug test.
However, there are isolated CBD compounds available that do not contain THC, which can help avoid this issue. In conclusion, while there is still much to learn about CBD and its potential benefits, it is clear that it is not a drug in the traditional sense. As an expert in this field, I believe that CBD has the potential to greatly improve the lives of many individuals. However, it's important to use caution and consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any CBD products into your routine.
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