Some animal research from 2019 suggests that CBD may interact with liver enzymes and temporarily stop the liver from metabolizing other drugs or breaking down toxins. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate CBD products in the same way it regulates drugs or dietary supplements, companies sometimes mislabel or misrepresent their products. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD). U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Accessed 8/23/2023.

CBD and THC can affect how other medicines work. Always discuss possible interactions with a specialist.Margaret Rajnic, a doctor of nursing practice experienced in medical cannabis and CBD, emphasizes the importance of using therapy in tandem with any type of cannabis or CBD for PTSD. “There is an amount of therapy that is needed for PTSD,” she says. “But CBD will give you that little bit of decreased anxiety.” We chose these products based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency. Every product and brand featured has been vetted by our team for medical and business standards. Each product in this article: In 2005, Canada approved the use of Sativex, an oromucosal (absorbed in the lining of the mouth) spray with equal proportions of THC and CBD, for the treatment of multiple sclerosis-related central neuropathic pain. In 2007, Canada approved the medicine’s use again for cancer pain that proved unresponsive to other medications. Additionally, using CBD topically reduces the likelihood of experiencing side effects typically associated with CBD use, such as drowsiness, fatigue and diarrhea,” says Dr. Milanes. Nerve pain: A small 2020 study looked at the effects of topical CBD oil on pain. Many people in the study, all with nerve damage, reported having reduced pain levels. They described feeling a dip in sharp, intense, and cold and itchy pain sensations.

Pain can be triggered by factors such as stress, allergies, illness, or injury. Common concerns include painful and dry winter skin, muscle pain, or inflamed skin conditions. CBD acts as a topical ingredient with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties to target the symptoms of pain. Additionally, a small 2021 study of 20 people with eczema found that topical CBD gel decreased itchiness in 67% of participants.D'Andre S, McAllister S, Nagi J, Giridhar KV, Ruiz-Macias E, Loprinzi C. Topical Cannabinoids for Treating Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy: A Case Series. Integr Cancer Ther. 2021;20:15347354211061739. Xu DH, Cullen BD, Tang M, Fang Y. The Effectiveness of Topical Cannabidiol Oil in Symptomatic Relief of Peripheral Neuropathy of the Lower Extremities. Curr Pharm Biotechnol. 2020;21(5):390-402. Russo EB. Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008;4(1):245-259. It’s important to keep in mind that not all CBD products are created equally, which is why it’s so important to shop carefully. CBD’s effectiveness varies depending on a variety of factors, like the: