CBD: WHO initial review does not recommend classification

For the time being, CBD should not be subject to classification in the international list of controlled substances, as determined by the WHO at the end of its review. initial review of cannabidiol.

The WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) met to decide on the fate of certain substances, including cannabidiol. Among the group conclusions, the committee also announced its intention to undertake a complete review of the cannabidiol in 2018 :

«There is growing interest in member states in the use of cannabis for medical indications including palliative care. In response to this growing interest and use, WHO has in recent years gathered more scientific evidence on the therapeutic use and side effects of cannabis and cannabis compounds.

To this end, ECDD has carried out an initial review of a cannabis compound called cannabidiol (CBD). Recent evidence from animal and human studies shows that its use could have some therapeutic value for seizures due to epilepsy and other related conditions. Current evidence also shows that cannabidiol is not susceptible to abuse or dependence like other cannabinoids (such as Tetra Hydro Cannabinol (THC)). The ECDD thus concludes that current information does not justify the classification of cannabidiol and defers a further review of cannabidiol preparations until May 2018, when the committee will undertake a full review of cannabis and cannabis-related substances.»

The 40th ECDD meeting will therefore be dedicated to cannabis, and will include pre-examinations of the following substances, in addition to cannabidiol:

• the Cannabis plant and its resin
• cannabis extracts and tinctures
• Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
• THC isomers

For the time being, therefore, CBD remains off the international list of controlled substances. Should it enter one of these lists, its use could be restricted.

The full report of the 39th ECDD meeting is available at available here.