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CBD
Cannabidiol
Pronounced: see-bee-DEE
CBD (Cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive major cannabinoid. Everything you need to know about CBD. Learn about FDA-approved uses, anxiety research, dosing, drug interactions, and how CBD works in the body..
Boiling Point
320-356°F (160-180°C)
Formula
C₂₁H₃₀O₂
Legal Status
Legal federally when derived from hemp (<0.3% THC); prescription CBD (Epidiolex) is Schedule V
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is the second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis and the dominant cannabinoid in hemp. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce intoxication. It gained FDA approval in 2018 as Epidiolex for treating severe forms of epilepsy, marking a landmark moment for cannabinoid medicine.
How CBD Works
CBD has a complex mechanism of action and doesn't directly bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors like THC. Instead, it modulates the endocannabinoid system indirectly, inhibits anandamide reuptake, and interacts with serotonin receptors (5-HT1A), TRPV1 pain receptors, GPR55, and adenosine receptors. This multi-target approach may explain its diverse effects.
Researched Effects
Seizure Reduction
Strong EvidenceFDA-approved for Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes. Strong clinical trial evidence.
✓ Compliant Language
FDA-approved for certain severe epilepsy syndromes
✗ Avoid Saying
Cures epilepsy or replaces seizure medication
Anxiety Relief
Moderate EvidenceHuman studies show anxiolytic effects, particularly for social anxiety.
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Research suggests anxiety-relieving properties
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Treats anxiety disorders
Anti-inflammatory
Moderate EvidenceStrong preclinical evidence; human trials ongoing.
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Shows anti-inflammatory properties in research
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Treats inflammatory conditions
Sources
Sleep Support
Moderate EvidenceMay improve sleep quality, particularly when anxiety is a factor.
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May support better sleep
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Cures insomnia
Sources
Medical Applications
Dravet Syndrome
Strong EvidenceFDA-approved as Epidiolex. Reduced seizure frequency by 39% in trials.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
Strong EvidenceFDA-approved as Epidiolex for this severe epilepsy syndrome.
Anxiety
Moderate EvidenceParticularly studied for social anxiety and generalized anxiety.
Chronic Pain
Moderate EvidenceOften used in combination with THC for enhanced efficacy.
Dosing Guidance
Dosing varies widely by condition. Anxiety research uses 25-75mg. Epidiolex dosing starts at 2.5mg/kg twice daily. Most over-the-counter products contain 10-50mg per serving. CBD is biphasic—low doses may be alerting, high doses may be sedating.
Safety Information
CBD is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. CBD inhibits CYP450 enzymes and can interact with many medications—always consult your physician. Quality varies significantly among OTC products.
Potential Side Effects
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness at high doses
Drug Interactions
CBD inhibits CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes significantly. It can increase blood levels of many medications including blood thinners, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs. Always consult your doctor before combining CBD with medications.
Scientific References
Spindle TR, et al. • Current Addiction Reports (2021)
PubMed ID: 33585159
Comprehensive review of CBD therapeutic efficacy from clinical trials.
Devinsky O, et al. • New England Journal of Medicine (2017)
PubMed ID: 28538134
Landmark trial leading to FDA approval of Epidiolex.
Devinsky O, et al. • New England Journal of Medicine (2017)
PubMed ID: 28538134
Phase 3 trial showing 39% reduction in seizure frequency.
Shannon S, et al. • Permanente Journal (2019)
PubMed ID: 30624194
Found 79% of patients had decreased anxiety scores.
Bergamaschi MM, et al. • Neuropsychopharmacology (2011)
PubMed ID: 21307846
Reduced anxiety in simulated public speaking test.
Burstein S. • Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry (2015)
PubMed ID: 25817661
Review of anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Suraev AS, et al. • Sleep Medicine Reviews (2020)
PubMed ID: 32007831
Systematic review of cannabinoids and sleep.
Argueta DA, et al. • Current Pain and Headache Reports (2020)
PubMed ID: 32166547
Review of preclinical and clinical pain evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp. It does not produce a "high" and is FDA-approved as Epidiolex for treating severe forms of epilepsy.
Does CBD get you high?
No. CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce intoxication or the "high" associated with THC. However, some full-spectrum CBD products contain trace amounts of THC.
How much CBD should I take?
Dosing varies by condition and individual. Most people start with 10-25mg daily and adjust based on effects. Clinical trials use doses ranging from 25mg to over 1000mg depending on the condition.
Does CBD interact with medications?
Yes. CBD inhibits liver enzymes (CYP450) that metabolize many medications. This can increase or decrease blood levels of drugs including blood thinners, anti-seizure meds, and antidepressants. Always consult your doctor.
Quick Facts
- Full Name
- Cannabidiol
- Category
- major Cannabinoid
- Psychoactive
- No
- Boiling Point
- 320-356°F (160-180°C)
- Formula
- C₂₁H₃₀O₂
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before using cannabis products.
Individual Variation
Cannabis affects everyone differently based on genetics, tolerance, and other factors. What works for one person may not work for another.
Start Low, Go Slow
Always begin with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually to minimize risk of adverse effects.