American Journal of Endocannabinoid Medicine (AJEM)CBD Safety Profile: Real-World Evidence Study Shows Compelling Results for Full-Spectrum CBD

Researcher Kevin Spelman’s Study Could Influence US Policy on Cannabis Descheduling

As the demand for hemp extracts and medical cannabis continues to soar, a new real-world evidence study led by researcher Kevin Spelman, PhD, MCPP, offers valuable insights into the safety profile of full-spectrum cannabidiol (CBD) products. Conducted during the CannMed 23 Innovation & Investment Summit, the study analyzed nearly two million product units and could potentially impact future policy and legislation in the United States.

HCN Medical Memo
This study provides a comprehensive look at the safety profile of full-spectrum CBD products, particularly those from Charlotte’s Web. Although the incidence of adverse events is low, it’s crucial to note the types of events that were reported. This data can be invaluable for physicians, pharmacists, and nurses when discussing the potential risks and benefits of CBD products with their patients.

Key Points

• Dr. Spelman’s study analyzed 1.94 million product units sold by Charlotte’s Web between January 2019 and July 2020.
• During the study period, 304 unique individuals reported 431 adverse events, with an incidence rate of 0.022%.
• The most common adverse events were gastrointestinal issues (8.7%), headaches (6%), nausea (5.8%), dizziness (5.6%), anxiety (5.3%), and seizures (3%).
• Seven serious adverse events were reported, translating to an incidence of 0.00036%.
• Dr. Spelman emphasized the “incredible safety” profile of full-spectrum CBD products, although he cautioned that the results are specific to Charlotte’s Web products.

“The reason we did this study was to show real-world safety data for hemp-based products. Essentially, US scientists are hobbled because of Schedule I. Researchers have to jump through so many hoops; they just throw up their hands and end up researching something besides cannabis.”
– Kevin Spelman, PhD, MCPP

Additional Points

• Dr. Spelman has been in the cannabis industry since 2011 and advocates for the use of the term “Cannabis” over “marijuana.”
• US researchers face challenges in cannabis research due to its Schedule I status, putting them behind their international counterparts.

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