Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many chemical compounds called cannabinoids. It is found in the cannabis sativa plant and used to make food, oils, body lotions, pet products, and more. CBD is thought to help with pain, anxiety, depression, and other health conditions. A wide variety of products containing CBD are available for sale in stores and online. These products have not been studied in controlled clinical trials and may not be safe or effective. FDA-approved drugs, which have been tested in scientifically designed studies, are the best way to get medical treatments that are proven safe and effective.

An Introduction to Cannabidiol (CBD): Understanding the Basics

The 2018 Farm Bill made it legal for farmers to grow hemp, a cannabis plant with low levels of THC and high levels of CBD. Hemp is a versatile crop that is grown for its fibers, biofuel, and animal feed as well as its medicinal properties. Hemp contains more than 80 active chemical compounds called cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. THC is psychoactive and can cause a “high” feeling. CBD does not contain THC and is not psychoactive.

CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, and pain-relieving properties in some animals and in humans. There is also growing evidence that it can reduce the risk of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes in children 1 year of age or older. We are working to understand the potential safety and efficacy of this drug in more children with these disorders and will continue to support companies interested in bringing this medicine through our drug approval process.