Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it appealing for various health purposes. With growing public interest, questions arise regarding CBD’s use in vulnerable populations, particularly children. This article explores the scientific understanding and safety considerations for pediatric CBD use.
The Legal and Regulatory Environment
The legal landscape surrounding CBD, especially for minors, remains complex and often inconsistent. Federally, the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp (cannabis with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC) from the Controlled Substances Act, legalizing its production and broader availability across state lines.
Despite federal legality, state laws vary widely, with some imposing stricter regulations or outright prohibitions, particularly concerning sales to individuals under 18 or 21. For example, some states restrict inhalable CBD to those over 21. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved CBD as a food additive or dietary supplement, leading to a largely unregulated market for many CBD products.
Current Medical Research and Applications for Children
The scientific community focuses on CBD’s potential in specific medical conditions, with ongoing research. Epidiolex, an oral solution, is the only FDA-approved CBD-based medication. It is indicated for treating seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex.
Beyond these specific epilepsy syndromes, researchers are exploring CBD for other conditions in children, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anxiety. Preliminary studies suggest CBD may reduce problematic behaviors in autistic children, including aggression and hyperactivity, and improve social responsiveness. Evidence also indicates CBD’s potential to reduce anxiety and improve sleep in children. However, these studies are often preliminary, highlighting the need for more controlled clinical trials to confirm efficacy and determine appropriate dosages for these applications.
Safety Concerns and Adverse Effects
Concerns regarding the safety of CBD for children are significant, particularly given the unregulated nature of many products. Common side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and elevated liver enzymes. These effects vary in severity and may require dose adjustments or discontinuation.
A major safety concern in the broader CBD market is inconsistent product quality and purity. Many commercially available CBD products may be mislabeled, containing inaccurate CBD content or undisclosed levels of THC, which can be intoxicating and have long-term effects on a child’s developing brain. Contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or other harmful substances can also be present due to a lack of stringent manufacturing oversight. Furthermore, CBD can interact with other medications, potentially altering drug levels and leading to increased side effects or reduced medication effectiveness. Long-term safety data for CBD use in children remains largely unknown outside of controlled clinical settings for specific conditions.
Considerations for Parents
Parents considering CBD for their children should approach the decision with caution and informed guidance. Consulting with a pediatrician or a healthcare provider knowledgeable about cannabis products is recommended before initiating any CBD regimen. These professionals can offer insights into potential benefits, risks, dosing, and interactions with existing medications.
Given the lack of comprehensive regulation, parents should be wary of products making unsubstantiated health claims. If considering a CBD product, seek out those that have undergone third-party testing for purity and accurate cannabinoid content. However, even third-party testing does not guarantee safety or efficacy, especially for conditions outside of FDA-approved uses. For most conditions, conventional treatments have established safety profiles and are typically the first line of defense, with CBD remaining an area of ongoing research.