Key takeaways
- You don’t need a prescription to use most hemp-based CBD products. This is because they are regarded as legal and not subject to strict regulations.
- CBD products with high THC concentrations (above the 0.3% recommended level) are subject to strict restrictions and may require a prescription.
- Doctors may only recommend CBD products since its mode of activity and efficacy is still being studied.
- You can purchase CBD oil over the counter, as long as it is derived from industrial hemp.
CBD has rules you need to follow, like getting a medical card before buying it. These rules can be different in different places, but they're important for controlling how people use CBD. This article will address certain questions around CBD prescription.
Do you need prescription for CBD?
No, most hemp-based CBD products are available over the counter without a prescription. However, this also depend on several factors including location, type of CBD product and concentration of THC in the product. Hemp-derived CBD products are often considered legal as long as they meet specific criteria regarding THC content.
However, CBD products with higher THC levels or those derived from marijuana plants may be subject to stricter regulations, requiring a prescription or being available only in a medical cannabis program.
We recommend you check the local laws and regulations in your specific location to understand the requirements for obtaining CBD products. In some cases, medical professionals may still recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before using CBD, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
Can I purchase CBD without a prescription?
Yes! You can purchase CBD oil over the counter, as long as it is derived from industrial hemp. However, the availability of cannabis-based CBD products is restricted in certain U.S. states. As of 2021, the following ten states do not permit such products: Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas.
On the contrary, there are thirteen states where CBD oil with a higher THC content is allowed, allowing you to purchase these products without limitations. These states include Alaska, California, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Vermont.
Can My Doctor Write a Prescription for CBD Oil?
Unless you're prescribed Epidiolex, your doctor is unable to provide a prescription for CBD oil. Due to limited scientific evidence on CBD's effectiveness in treating various health conditions, healthcare professionals can only offer recommendations for these products.
Another reason a prescription for generic CBD oil is not feasible is the significant variations in potency and purity. A study examining 84 different CBD products found that they often contained less CBD than advertised. More concerning, 18 of those products exceeded the legal limit for THC. Even if your doctor were to issue a prescription, there's no assurance of receiving the highest-quality CBD oil, potentially nullifying any potential positive effects. This is why we suggest you always insist on purchasing premium-grade CBD oils from reputable sources like Nesas Hemp.
How Can I choose the best CBD products?
Choosing the best CBD products involves considering various factors to ensure safety, quality, and effectiveness. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Check the Source of CBD: Look for products derived from hemp plants grown in the United States or Europe. Hemp plants grown in these regions are subject to strict agricultural regulations.
- Examine Third-Party Lab Reports: Reputable CBD manufacturers provide third-party lab reports, which detail the product's cannabinoid content, including CBD and THC levels, as well as any contaminants. Ensure that the product you're considering has easily accessible lab reports.
- CBD Extraction Method: CO2 extraction is generally considered a safe and efficient method for extracting CBD. It leaves no residual solvents in the final product. Avoid products that use potentially harmful solvents in the extraction process.
- Check THC Content: Ensure the THC content is within legal limits. Full-spectrum CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, but it should be below 0.3%, as per legal standards.
- Consider the Type of CBD: CBD products come in different forms, including full-spectrum (contains a range of cannabinoids), broad-spectrum (contains multiple cannabinoids, excluding THC), and isolate (pure CBD). Choose the type that suits your preferences and potential sensitivities.
- Read Customer Reviews: Check customer reviews for insights into the product's effectiveness and any potential side effects. This can provide valuable information from people who have already tried the product.
- Look for Transparent Brands: Trustworthy CBD brands are transparent about their sourcing, manufacturing processes, and testing procedures. Avoid companies that don't provide this information.
- Check for Added Ingredients: Examine the product's ingredient list. Opt for products with minimal, natural ingredients and avoid those with unnecessary additives or preservatives.
- Determine CBD Potency: Consider the concentration of CBD in the product. Beginners may start with lower concentrations and gradually increase as needed.
Remember that individual responses to CBD can vary, so it may take some experimentation to find the right product and dosage for your needs. Always prioritize safety, quality, and transparency when choosing CBD products.
Want to Learn More?
- Nesas Hemp—the first to receive the Exclusive Tested Safe Seal.
- How To Boost Your Mood In Six Quick Ways
- CBD for Gut Health
- Why Flavored CBD Is Low Quality
- What Is Ayurveda, And Is It For Me?
Sources
- Rapin, L., Gamaoun, R., Hage, C. E., Arboleda, M. F., & Prosk, E. (2021). Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: Real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic. Journal of Cannabis Research, 3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00078-w
- Kvamme, S.L., Pedersen, M.M., Rømer Thomsen, K. et al. Exploring the use of cannabis as a substitute for prescription drugs in a convenience sample. Harm Reduct J 18, 72 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12954-021-00520-5
- Gulbransen, G., Xu, W., & Arroll, B. (2020). Cannabidiol prescription in clinical practice: An audit on the first 400 patients in New Zealand. BJGP Open, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgpopen20X101010