FDA Issues Warnings to CBD Companies Over Opioid Addiction Claims

The Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings to two companies over their claims that CBD could treat opioid addiction or serve as alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs. The letters were sent to Washington’s BIOTA Biosciences LLC and New Hampshire’s Homero Corp which does business as Natures CBD Oil Distribution.

FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner Amy Abernethy said the agency would crack down on companies claiming CBD is a treatment for opioid addiction and that the cannabinoid “has not been shown to treat opioid addiction.”

“Opioid addiction is a real problem in our country, and those who are addicted need to seek out proper treatment from a health care provider. There are many unanswered questions about the science, safety, effectiveness and quality of unapproved products containing CBD, and we will continue to work to protect the health and safety of American consumers from products that are being marketed in violation of the law.” – Abernathy in a statement

BIOTA was marketing injectable CBD products as well as an injectable curcumin products claiming they could treat opioid addiction. Natures CBD was selling a variety of CBD products making similar claims.

Last month, the FDA provided an update on its work on CBD policy and indicated that it was “monitoring the marketplace” and “would take appropriate action against unlawful CBD products that pose a risk of harm to the public,” including those making therapeutic claims.

The agency has given the CBD companies 15 business days to correct the violations or face potential action.