Further studies are clearly necessary to fully evaluate the potential of CBD as an intervention for addictive disorders. It should mentione that most of the studies were designed to evaluate the application of CBD for the treatment of drug abuse. In contrast, some studies sought to identify receptors implicated in CBD’s action in various animal models of drug abuse and addiction. One of the first reports suggesting the therapeutic potential of CBD for the modulation of cocaine rewarding properties employed the CPP paradigm. In Sprague-Dawley rats, CBD (5 mg/kg, i.p.) did not change the conditioning score but enhanced CPP extinction (Parker et al., 2004). Also, CBD (10 mg/kg, i.p.) disrupted the reconsolidation of place preference in rats and this effect was present for 2 weeks (de Carvalho and Takahashi, 2017).
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In fact, according to a 2023 Healthline survey, 25% of adults in the United States have tried or are interested in trying CBD products. By now, you may’ve heard someone mention CBD, especially if you live with a chronic condition like pain or anxiety. While there is not yet a consensus on how to classify behavioral addictions or on the best way to treat them, it is clear that they can be very damaging and should not be ignored.
The Effects Of CBD
On the other hand, CBD oil can be derived from the cannabis plant sometimes contain high levels of THC and low levels of CBD. In these mixtures of CBD that contain more than 0.3 percent THC, they may create a “high” feeling that could potentially become addictive. CBD derived from hemp is considered a lawful substance; and, with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, it is now legal (under federal law) to grow commercialized hemp in the United States. CBD still carries a stigma due to its association with marijuana and THC. While there is still more research to be done into long-term effects, it is important that we consider CBD separately from the side effects of marijuana and its reputation.
In fact, researchers are conducting nearly 200 clinical trialsrelated to CBD, examining its effectiveness to treat PTSD, cancer, schizophrenia, cognitive impairment, ADHD, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions. We asked clinicians at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation to discuss cannabidiol and its relationship to substance use disorders. However, one significant safety concern with CBD is that it’s mainly marketed and sold as a supplement not a medication.
CBD Is Still an Unregulated Substance
- Interestingly, the administration of CBD up-regulated ERK1/2 and CREB phosphorylation, as well as BDNF expression in the HIPP of mice that underwent cocaine SA.
- Conversely, CBD was found to prevent the reinstatement of cue-induced heroin seeking (Ren et al., 2009).
- However, regular use of CBD may increase tolerance—requiring a higher CBD dose to feel the same effects level.
- Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is another compound found in cannabis, CBD does not produce psychoactive effects that lead to addiction.
- A 2019 study showed that CBD applied to the skin as an ointment significantly reduced inflammatory skin disease and scarring.
The FDA has not approved CBD for any use in animals and the concerns regarding CBD products with unproven medical claims and of unknown quality equally apply to CBD products marketed for animals. The FDA recommends pet owners talk with their veterinarians about appropriate treatment options for their pets. Taking CBD along with THC has also been shown to help reduce some of the unwanted effects that THC may have.
Other neurological symptoms and disorders
It was found to not only reduce the number of seizures, but in some cases stopped them entirely. The Farm Bill removed all hemp-derived products, including CBD, from the Controlled Substances Act, which criminalizes the possession of drugs. In essence, this means that CBD is legal if it comes from hemp, but not if it comes from cannabis (marijuana) — even though it is the exact same molecule. Currently, many people obtain CBD online without a medical marijuana license, which is legal in most states.
Research is still underway, but over the last few decades, scientists have become more aware of how CBD might be beneficial when applied topically or ingested. CBD is one of the many chemical compounds that is found in the cannabis plant—referred to as cannabis sativa. Though they’re from the same plant, THC and CBD are quite different from each other. This is also considered a benefit for some people, but Jas Matharu-Daley, MD, a physician and chief medical officer for a CBD brand, notes that the effects might be too strong if you’re also taking CBD with other sedating medications. The most comment side effects of CBD include drowsiness, gastrointestinal issues, dry mouth, reduced appetite, nausea, and interaction with other medications. According to federal law, all hemp-derived CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC.
In addition, it is important to highlight the protective actions derived from CBD treatment not only to attenuate drug-induced damages in the CNS, but also in peripheral tissues such as alcohol-induced liver steatosis or cirrhosis. The great interest in the promising profile of CBD for the management of SUD was revealed by the significant number is cannabidiol addictive of clinical studies published or currently underway. One of the most representative examples is CUD for which numerous clinical trials evaluated the effects of CBD, mostly in combination with THC, on withdrawal symptoms, craving, and cannabis use.
- Though less relevant among CBD’s molecular targets, it is known that dopamine receptors have a crucial role in some regions of the mesolimbic system involved in reward processes, including the HIP and NAc.
- There are many questions asked about the potential risks and benefits of CBD for public health-related problems, and ongoing misconceptions regarding whether it’s safe to use daily or possibly even addictive.
- That said, preliminary research on CBD and its benefits are promising in relation to helping with mild to moderate health concerns and it is generally considered a safe substance.
- However, it is important to note that many CBD products may contain some level of THC.
- It is also important to remember that CBD is not a miracle cure-all and should not be used as a substitute for traditional addiction treatment or medical care.
Before you buy or use a CBD product, carefully review the label and check out the manufacturer’s website. Opting for lab-tested, high quality CBD products can help reduce your risk of unwanted effects. There’s not a lot of research on CBD, but the results on topics experts have studied are promising. Some studies have found CBD may be effective in providing relief from various mental health and physical conditions. Francisco Church is a rehabilitation specialist and the chief editor of Recovery Ranger. He creates this site to offer guidance and support to individuals seeking to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.
Hemp-derived CBD vs. Marijuana-derived CBD
“It’s important to start with a low dose until you know how your body will react to CBD,” said Lindsay Slowiczek, PharmD. “A wide range of CBD dosages has been tested in clinical studies, but more evidence is needed before safe and effective dose recommendations can be made for specific uses. Likewise, CBD may help treat childhood epilepsy and other seizure disorders. The American Cancer Society says that some evidence points to CBD’s anticancer properties and benefits in managing cancer treatment side effects. Cannabis-derived CBD products may be more effective than those from hemp, but industrial hemp-derived CBD still provides many health benefits.
