Is It Illegal to Give a Child CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD is known for its potential medical benefits, including pain relief, reducing anxiety and depression, and even controlling seizures. Given the range of benefits, some parents and guardians may wonder whether it’s safe and legal to give their children CBD.
Explanation of the Legal Status of CBD and its Derivatives
The legality of CBD products can be difficult to navigate, especially for parents and guardians. CBD is legal federally, with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. However, this legalization comes with a significant caveat: CBD must come from industrial hemp plants with less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.
In addition to federal legislation, individual states may have their own laws concerning CBD use. Some states, for example, have legalized cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. However, in these states, it’s still important to follow local regulations and guidelines when using CBD, especially with minors.
Discussion of Federal and State Laws Governing CBD Use with Minors
At the federal level, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only one CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, for the treatment of rare forms of epilepsy. However, there is currently no FDA-approved use of CBD for other medical conditions, including anxiety, pain, and insomnia. Consequently, it’s still unclear how the FDA will regulate CBD products in the future.
In general, individual states regulate CBD use, including whether or not minors can access CBD products. For example, Alabama and Georgia have legalized medical CBD use for certain conditions. Other states, like Idaho and South Dakota, have no legal medical or recreational cannabis programs. Parents and guardians should make sure to understand the laws in their state before giving CBD to their child.
Explanation of the Potential Consequences of Violating These Laws
Violating laws surrounding CBD use with minors can have serious consequences, including fines, legal trouble, and even child protective services involvement. Parents and guardians who are considering giving their child CBD should speak with a legal professional or consult legal resources to ensure they’re following all necessary regulations and guidelines.
Benefits and Risks of Using CBD with Children
There is increasing interest in using CBD to treat children with medical conditions, including epilepsy and autism. However, it’s important to recognize both the potential benefits and risks associated with using CBD with children.
Some potential benefits of using CBD with children include:
- Pain relief, especially in children with cancer or undergoing chemotherapy
- Reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Control of seizures in children with epilepsy
However, there are also potential risks and side effects to using CBD with children, including:
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Diarrhea or digestive issues
- Interference with other medications
It’s important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before using CBD with a child, especially in place of traditional medical treatments.
Different Perspectives and Opinions on the Topic
Opinions on giving children CBD can vary widely, and are often shaped by factors like cultural background and personal experiences. Some parents and guardians are eager to try CBD as a natural remedy for their child’s ailments, while others are hesitant to give them a substance that they perceive as being similar to marijuana.
According to Dr. Bonni Goldstein, a California-based pediatrician and medical director of Canna-Centers, “For the most part, when dosed properly, CBD is a very safe option for children.” However, it’s important to recognize the potential downsides and to approach CBD use with caution.
In an interview with NBC, Dr. Yasmin Hurd, a neuroscientist who studies CBD and its effects on the brain, cautioned parents to be careful when using CBD with children. “We still don’t know what the long-term effects are in children,” she explained. “We need more research to know whether or not this is safe.”
Alternative Options for Children’s Health and Wellness
While CBD is often touted as a natural alternative to traditional medications, there are many other options for promoting children’s health and wellness. Some natural remedies that may be beneficial include:
- Exercise and physical activity
- Healthy diet and nutrition
- Reducing screen time and promoting good sleep hygiene
- Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing
- Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and massage
It’s important to discuss any alternative therapies with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into a child’s overall wellness plan.
Legal Considerations for Parents and Guardians
For parents and guardians who are considering using CBD with their child, it’s important to approach the situation carefully and be aware of legal and ethical considerations. Here are some key tips:
- Check local and state laws to ensure compliance when using CBD with minors
- Consult with a healthcare provider before using CBD, especially in place of traditional medications
- Start with low doses of CBD and carefully monitor your child’s response
- Be aware of potential side effects or interactions with other medications
- Be prepared to discuss your decision with other caregivers, such as teachers or healthcare providers
There are also organizations that can provide support and information for parents and guardians who are considering using CBD with their child. For example, Parents Opposed to Pot is a non-profit organization that provides information on the risks of marijuana and CBD use with children.
Conclusion
Given the potential benefits of CBD, it’s natural for parents and guardians to consider using it with their children. However, it’s important to approach CBD use with caution and be aware of the legal and ethical considerations involved. Parents and guardians should work with healthcare providers, legal professionals, and other resources to ensure safe and effective use of CBD with minors.