According to a new report, over a third of parents mistakenly believe that CBD and marijuana are the same thing. The report highlights that 80% of parents admit to knowing very little or nothing at all about CBD products. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in marijuana and hemp. Unlike marijuana, CBD only contains trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive component that produces a high. The report also notes that only 29% of parents who have considered giving their child a CBD product have consulted with their child's pediatrician. With CBD products being easily accessible and unregulated by the FDA, experts emphasize the need for more research on CBD's effects on children and caution parents to consult with healthcare providers before giving their child any CBD products.
CBD and Marijuana: Understanding the Difference
CBD and marijuana are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are actually quite different. CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a chemical compound found in both marijuana and hemp plants. However, the main difference between the two is the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) present. THC is the psychoactive component of marijuana that produces the “high” feeling. Marijuana typically contains high levels of THC, while CBD products only have 0.3% THC or less. This means that CBD does not have the same mind-altering effects as marijuana.
Parents' Knowledge and Perception of CBD
According to a recent poll by the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health, a staggering 80% of parents admit to knowing little to nothing about CBD products. This lack of knowledge can lead to misconceptions and misunderstandings about CBD and its effects. In fact, the poll showed that 35% of parents thought CBD and marijuana were essentially the same thing. It is important for parents to educate themselves about CBD in order to make informed decisions regarding its use.
The Importance of Pediatrician Consultation
When considering the use of CBD products for their children, it is crucial for parents to consult with pediatricians. However, the poll revealed that only 29% of parents who gave or considered giving CBD to their child actually talked to their child's pediatrician about it. Pediatricians play a crucial role in educating parents about the potential benefits and risks of CBD use in children. By consulting with a pediatrician, parents can gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about CBD.
Regulation of CBD Products
One of the challenges surrounding CBD products is the lack of regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that most CBD products on the market are not subject to FDA approval or oversight. The only FDA-approved CBD product for children is Epidiolex, a prescription drug used to treat certain forms of epilepsy. The lack of regulation can make it difficult for parents to determine the safety and efficacy of CBD products for their children.
Potential Benefits and Side Effects of CBD
While there is limited research on the effects of CBD on children, anecdotal stories suggest that it may have benefits such as reducing anxiety, pain, and inflammatory diseases. However, it is important to note that these stories are not backed by extensive scientific studies. On the other hand, there are potential negative side effects of CBD use in children, including diarrhea, fatigue, nausea or vomiting, and decreased appetite. Parents should weigh the potential benefits against the risks before considering CBD for their children.
Safety Measures for CBD Products
CBD products should be treated like medications and kept out of reach of children. Just like any other medication, CBD can interact with other prescription medications, potentially causing unintended effects. It is important for parents to store CBD products safely and ensure that children cannot access them. Products like CBD gummy bears can be easily mistaken for candy and pose a risk of accidental ingestion. By treating CBD products with the same caution as medications, parents can minimize the risk of harm to their children.
The Need for Further Research
Despite the increasing popularity of CBD products, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies on their effects on children. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of CBD use, as well as its safety and efficacy in different pediatric conditions. Data-driven decision-making is essential to ensure that parents have accurate information to make informed choices about CBD use for their children.
Expert Recommendations on CBD Use
There is some skepticism among experts when it comes to the use of CBD in children. Dr. Jennifer Griffith, an assistant professor of neurology and pediatrics, advises against using CBD for any condition other than epilepsy due to the lack of proven benefits and potential risks. It is also recommended that parents and caregivers check the FDA warning list to ensure that the CBD product or company they are considering is not in violation of FDA regulations. This list provides important information about the safety and quality of CBD products on the market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important for parents to have a clear understanding of the difference between CBD and marijuana. Knowledge gaps and misconceptions about CBD can be addressed through consultation with pediatricians, who play a crucial role in educating parents. The lack of FDA regulation for most CBD products highlights the need for caution and thorough research before using them. Balancing the potential benefits and risks of CBD is essential in making informed decisions. Ultimately, the safety and well-being of children should always be the top priority.
References
- C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health
- Expert Opinions and Recommendations
