Cannabidiol (CBD) is a substance derived from hemp. Manufacturers of CBD products advertise CBD as a treatment for a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy.

While the claims about CBD are broad and optimistic, some people wonder if it is possible to become addicted to CBD. This article will explore the answer to this question.

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out to verify your insurance, ask questions, or schedule appointments.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in cannabis plants. CBD does not contain the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and does not cause a “high” or psychoactive effects. There are many products containing CBD available for sale across the United States, including:

• CBD oil
• CBD extract
• Oil-based capsules
• Vaporized liquid
• Food and drinks containing CBD extracts
• CBD-infused beauty products like lotions, creams, and balms

A drug called Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved CBD product on the market. This medication is a high-quality, pure CBD formulation approved to treat two types of epilepsy.

Medical researchers are looking for other uses for CBD. They are studying CBD as a treatment for:

• Schizophrenia
• Diabetes
• Anxiety
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease

Most people have little or no side effects while taking CBD. However, some people do have uncomfortable side effects, and CBD may interact with other medications people take.

Because the vast majority of CBD supplements are not FDA-approved, there are fewer regulations and federal laws related to its production and sale. Studies suggest that many CBD products contain less of the active ingredient than advertised, and some contain THC.

Can You Become Addicted to CBD?

People may exhibit signs of addiction when using cannabis products for long periods. This can cause people to wonder about CBD’s abuse or dependence potential.

Findings from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggest that CBD is not addictive. Research from 2017 showed that CBD and a placebo pill had the same potential for dependence.

There is no current research showing that using pure CBD is a public health concern.

However, it is crucial to be aware that CBD products may contain THC. The production and sale of CBD products are unregulated, and these products may contain unadvertised THC.

Some people may also confuse CBD and THC products. As more states legalize cannabis and THC products, more of these products are available to the public. If you choose to use CBD and want to avoid THC, make sure to read the product’s label carefully so that you understand what you are consuming.

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The Effects and Risks of CBD

Most research suggests that CBD is safe for use among most people. It is important to discuss taking CBD with your doctor to avoid dangerous interactions with other drugs you take.

Research shows that CBD may be effective at treating many conditions, including:

• Inflammation
• Nausea
• Pain
• Arthritis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Seizures
• Depression

The World Health Organization (WHO) is researching CBD’s effectiveness in treating these and other conditions.

While most people tolerate CBD well, it has the potential to cause unwanted side effects. These include:

• Appetite changes
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Mood changes
• Drowsiness
• Mood changes
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety

CBD may also reduce the effectiveness of some medications or cause interactions. It is essential to talk to a doctor before beginning to take CBD.

Is CBD Legal?

A law called The Farm Bill took hemp-derived products off of the Controlled Substances Act. This means that substances derived from hemp–including CBD–are legal. While marijuana and hemp both contain CBD, only the CBD from hemp is legal for sale and use across the United States.

People all over the country may obtain CBD products without a medical marijuana license. They may purchase CBD products from retail stores or online sellers.

Can CBD Help to Treat Addiction?

Some research suggests that CBD may reduce cravings for heroin and tobacco. Animal research suggests that it may also decrease cravings for cannabis, stimulants, opiates, and alcohol.

These studies used specific treatment criteria and conditions. You should not attempt to detox or overcome substance abuse on your own. If you struggle with marijuana addiction, you must seek treatment and continuing recovery support.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love needs substance abuse treatment, you are not alone. Compassionate, comprehensive treatment is available at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs or schedule an intake assessment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Cannabidiol (CBD)
2. Harvard Health: Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t
3. Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): CBD: Does it work? Is it safe? Is it legal?
4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Hemp Production and the 2018 Farm Bill