FDA issues warning to CBD company for ‘unsubstantiated’ health claims

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is the ingredient in marijuana and hemp touted to have many medicinal benefits. It’s different from tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis.

“Selling unapproved products with unsubstantiated therapeutic claims — such as claims that CBD products can treat serious diseases and conditions — can put patients and consumers at risk by leading them to put off important medical care. Additionally, there are many unanswered questions about the science, safety, effectiveness and quality of unapproved products containing CBD,” Dr. Ned Sharpless, acting FDA commissioner, said in the agency’s news release on Tuesday.