Cannabidiol: The Need for More Information About Its Potential Benefits and Side Effects

Consumer demand for cannabidiol (CBD) oil has increased, with growing sales from dispensaries because of the alleged medicinal benefits. Although studies examining the specific therapeutic effects of CBD are increasing, clinical data do not support the popular uses of CBD for Parkinson disease, schizophrenia, cancer palliation and treatment, chronic pain and spasticity, depression, anxiety disorder, insomnia, and inflammation.

AT A GLANCE

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any commercial products that contain CBD for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of diseases, including cancer. 
• Clinical oncology nurses and advanced practice RNs can counsel patients about the dearth of evidence to support popular uses of CBD among patients with cancer, possible contaminants, misleading labels, and the legal and regulatory issues surrounding CBD use.
• Future clinical trials will reveal more information about the efficacy and side effects of CBD.