The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Office of Women’s Health is hosting a conference Nov. 19 to discuss scientific evidence regarding sex and gender differences in response to cannabidiol (CBD).
Presentation topics will include:
patient and healthcare provider perspectives on CBD and other cannabinoid use
sex differences in the effects of CBD and other cannabinoids
use of CBD and other cannabinoids in pregnancy
government agency perspectives on CBD research and evaluation
The FDA says the conditions CBD is typically marketed for, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances, are more prevalent in women than men, highlighting the need to examine both genders separately.
The FDA has also shown particular concern for CBD use during pregnancy.
Currently, the FDA says it strongly advises against using CBD during pregnancy, as well as THC and cannabis in general. According to the FDA’s website, high doses of CBD in pregnant test animals have caused problems with developing male fetuses’ reproductive systems. The agency says it also expects that some amount of CBD can be transferred to babies through breast milk, though the effects of that are still unknown.
CBD products can also be contaminated with substances that may pose a risk to the fetus or breastfed baby, including THC and other contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals, the FDA says.
To register for the event, click here.
