The World Health Organization has released a report concluding that there is “no evidence” of “public health related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.”
“In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential. … CBD is generally well tolerated with a good safety profile. Reported adverse effects may be as a result of drug-drug interactions between CBD and patients’ existing medications.”
The report notes that, under experimental conditions, CBD can be converted to THC, however, “it does not appear to occur any significant effect in patients undergoing CBD treatment.” The authors point out that while there is significant evidence that CBD can be used to treat epilepsy, there is mounting evidence that it is also useful as a neuroprotective, antipsychotic, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-asthmatic, and analgesic.
“Another possible therapeutic application which has been investigated is the use of CBD to treat drug addiction. A recent systematic review concluded that there were a limited number of preclinical studies which suggest that CBD may have therapeutic properties on opioid, cocaine, and psychostimulant addiction, and some preliminary data suggest that it may be beneficial in cannabis and tobacco addiction in humans. However, considerably more research is required to evaluate CBD as a potential treatment.”
The report comes as the organization is considering changes to international restrictions on drug use. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration called for public comments on the issue as part of their response to the WHO proposal.