Overview of CBD

CBD can be considered a drug in some contexts. The FDA approved prescription drug Epidiolex contains CBD. CBD may also be considered a drug if it is marketed with therapeutic claims.

CBD and its Legality

Why do people confuse CBD as a drug? Confusion exists because CBD can come from both marijuana and hemp. State laws also vary in their legality of CBD. Some fully legal states allow CBD from both marijuana and hemp plants. Others only allow CBD from hemp.

The FDA does not allow CBD as a dietary supplement or food ingredient. However, some companies marketed CBD foods and supplements before the Epidiolex approval.

CBD and Marijuana Comparison

Is CBD the same as marijuana? CBD comes from cannabis plants, but unlike marijuana, CBD oil does not contain THC. THC causes the “high” feeling, but CBD does not.

CBD does not cause a “high” but may cause drowsiness or irritability. It interacts with the body’s cytochrome P450 system so it may interact with other medications.

The 0.2% THC limit does not apply to UK CBD products. Legal UK CBD products should contain no THC. The legal limit is 1mg THC per product.

While federally legal, CBD legality under state laws varies. The FDA approved the CBD drug Epidiolex but considers other CBD products illegal. This confusion fuels uncertainty about CBD’s legality.