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Today I wanted to pick back up on the cannabidiol (CBD) theme. It remains top of mind. You may have noticed that many products containing CBD are being introduced widely and are sold in many different forms, such as oil drops, capsules, lotions and tea.
Other than one prescription drug product to treat rare, severe forms of epilepsy, the FDA has not approved any other CBD-containing products. We want consumers to be aware that there is only limited available information about CBD, including about its effects on the body.
There are many open questions about CBD, incl. safety questions. In particular, we’re working to learn more about the potential risks of CBD, such as toxicity to the liver, when someone ingests it regularly over a long period of time, perhaps from several types of CBD products.
For example, what happens if you eat food with CBD in it, use CBD-infused skin cream, and use other CBD-based products on the same day? What if you use these products daily for a week or a month, or longer? What if someone taking CBD is also taking medications?
As we continue to take a closer look at these products, we are also working to better understand potential risks of CBD on special populations like children, adolescents, pregnant and lactating women, or on different types of animals, including pets.
We are reviewing available databases and medical literature about CBD’s safety. Thus far, the data appear insufficient. A key goal of our upcoming public hearing on 5/31 is to obtain better information. We hope some of the knowledge gaps can be filled but there is uncertainty.
As part of the FDA’s upcoming public hearing, a docket is open through 7/2 for public comment, as well as scientific data and information. The FDA will consider all those submissions as it determines the potential regulatory path forward for these products.
We will communicate lessons learned and next steps as quickly as possible after each step. As we learn more, we will continue to elaborate our scientific work plan, refine our policy options, and more.
FDA is committed to sound, science-based policy. As we learn more, our goal is to update stakeholders about our path forward and provide consumers with the information needed to make smart choices about CBD products. Thank you for your input in this process.
