The FDA is responsible for protecting the public health by assuring the safety and efficacy of FDA-regulated products. Although cannabidiol (CBD) is widely available and marketed as a component of products including drugs, food, dietary supplements, cosmetics, and animal health products, FDA has approved only one CBD product – a prescription drug to treat two rare, severe forms of epilepsy. There is very limited available information about CBD, including about its effects on the body.

The FDA recognizes the significant public interest in cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds, particularly CBD. However, there are many unanswered questions about the science, safety, and quality of products containing CBD. The Agency is working on answering these questions through ongoing efforts, including feedback from a recent FDA hearing and information and data gathering through a public docket. This public meeting will provide further insight into the scientific evidence suggesting the presence or absence of sex and gender differences in use and responses to CBD and other cannabinoids. Conditions for which CBD is often marketed, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances, are more prevalent in women than men. Therefore, consideration of issues pertaining to the safety of CBD products may be particularly important to address in women. In addition, use of CBD and other cannabinoids during pregnancy is an important public health concern that will be highlighted at this meeting.

For additional details, please visit https://go.usa.gov/xGE6Q.