Products containing CBD as an active ingredient are becoming increasingly popular. This derivative of the cannabis sativa plant is known for its therapeutic effects in managing the symptoms of various debilitating medical conditions. Also touted as a magic ingredient, CBD finds its place in the cosmetic industry as well.
The huge popularity of CBD comes with associated risks. Other than in medications approved by the FDA, the content of CBD is not regulated. The quantity of CBD and its potency in various products are now at the manufacturers’ discretion.
Not All CBDs Are Equal
Lots of CBD formulations and products are available in today’s market. But not all products contain the ideal amount of CBD and not all CBD used in these products is of desirable quality. Unsafe manufacturing practices can result in contaminated CBD products with traces of pesticides and heavy metals. When ingested in large quantities, such toxic compounds can prove to be harmful.
Many companies are exploiting the popularity of CBD by misleading customers with false claims about the therapeutic effects of their CBD-infused products. The contents of some products differ from that listed on the label. This can lead to people unknowingly consuming unsafe amounts of CBD. For example, a product labeled as pure CBD oil may contain trace amounts of THC, another derivative of the cannabis sativa plant that causes the feeling of high in consumers.
Interaction With Other Drugs
People who take CBD as a supplemental therapy for the treatment and management of symptoms associated with various ailments need to know the effect of CBD on other medications they use on a regular basis. Unfortunately, many medicines with CBD content, especially supplements containing CBD, don’t have the necessary specifications labeled on the product. This leaves the patient and the physician with the choice of having to guess the quality and potency of CBD in that product and calculate the risks associated with the drug interaction based solely on the inaccurate information available to them. This can adversely affect the patient’s health in the long run and may also lead to many undesirable side effects.
CBD is generally a harmless compound when used in specific amounts and with controlled potency. To avoid misuse and accidental overdose, and resultant harmful side effects, it is advisable to buy CBD infused products only from reputed and trustworthy manufacturers with ethical business practices.