Research results are promising, show “zero adverse events” from CBD use.
The preliminary results of a study into CBD use and its effects have been released and they look pretty good.
In August 2019, ValidCare, a market research platform for the cannabis industry, announced a National Consumer Experience Program (NCEP) to gather Real World Evidence on hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The program was launched after a specific request made to the CBD industry for more data on the use of CBD.
More than 2,000 people have responded to the survey
ValidCare launched a consumer platform app, CBD+me, to collect data from CBD users on health conditions, product use, health and wellness goals, and demographics. More than 2,000 people, ranging in age from 18 – 82, with an average age of 48, have participated in the study to date. Fifty-six percent of these are women.
Participants have so far provided reviews for more than 100 CBD products from over 20 companies, including tinctures, balms, capsules, edibles and beverages.
“Zero adverse events” from CBD use
Key findings include:
- 91% of respondents use full or broad spectrum hemp oil, with 9% reporting use of CBD isolate.
- 86% of CBD product users take it orally, with 75% using an oil-based tincture.
- 43% take CBD for chronic pain.
- 22% take CBD for mental health reasons; with 75% citing anxiety or stress.
- 18% take CBD for general wellness.
- Additional reasons for use include “health concerns related to the central nervous system, digestive health, sleep disorders, cancer and other.”
- 0% of respondents reported adverse events,
- though “approximately five percent of users reported mild side effects including dry or sore throat and difficulty concentrating.”
- 76.2% of CBD product users reported they felt “better” to “much better” after using CBD products.
- 20% reported unexpected positive side benefits to CBD use, such as general pain relief, improved mood and better sleep.
More research is still required
The research, though compelling, is not the final word on CBD. According to the Harvard Review, CBD can increase blood levels of the blood thinner coumadin, and can also raise blood levels of other medications. (People taking blood thinners should not take CBD without consulting a healthcare provider.)
The FDA website also states that more testing is required and lists liver injury, gastrointestinal distress, and changes in mood among potential side effects.
Ultimately, what experts say is that there is not enough research into CBD to make statements about its safety.
ValidCare plans to conclude the National Consumer Experience Program and report final data to the FDA later this month, in January 2020.
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