Can CBD be used for children?

The use of CBD for children is attracting more and more interest among parents facing various health problems of their young ones. Cannabidiol (CBD), a molecule extracted from cannabis, is recognized for its therapeutic properties without the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Faced with hyperactivity, sleep disorders in children or even childhood anxiety , some consider CBD as a natural alternative to soothe these symptoms. However, the question of the safety of its use in young people remains justified. Is it really safe and legal to administer such substances to minors? This article explores current research, medical opinions, as well as the legal frameworks governing the use of CBD in a pediatric context.

What is CBD and how is it different from THC?

Cannabidiol (CBD) and THC are both components of cannabis, but they differ radically in their effects and applications. CBD is particularly valued for its therapeutic properties, providing benefits without causing the euphoria associated with THC. This distinction is crucial, especially when it comes to its use among young people.

While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD works differently, interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system without the risks of psychotropic side effects. This characteristic makes CBD suitable for treating symptoms like childhood anxiety , sleep disturbances , and even pain without the risks associated with THC consumption.

Legal CBD must contain less than 0.3% THC. This regulation aims to allow the use of CBD products while minimizing the risks associated with high THC content. Products available on the market, such as CBD oils , CBD teas , and CBD gummies , must therefore meet these criteria to be considered legal and safe for consumption, including by children under adequate supervision.

Distinguishing between these two cannabinoids is essential to understanding their applicability and safety, particularly in pediatric use, where safety and efficacy are of utmost importance.

Medical research and therapeutic use of CBD in children

Medical research into the use of CBD to treat epilepsy in young people has advanced significantly in recent years, highlighting its potential as an alternative treatment. One of the most notable examples is the approval of Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication prescribed for epilepsy that has been shown to reduce seizure frequency in patients with severe forms of the condition, such as Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes.

Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes, which typically present in early childhood, are particularly difficult to manage with standard antiepileptic medications. The approval of Epidiolex marked a significant advance in the treatment of these debilitating conditions, offering hope and relief to many families. By reducing seizure frequency, Epidiolex improves the quality of life of affected children, while demonstrating the potential therapeutic applications of CBD in tightly regulated and monitored pediatric settings.

However, accessing Epidiolex can be complex, as it requires not only a prescription, but also adherence to a specific program that is often restricted to certain medical conditions and strict criteria. For families who are unable to join this program or are looking for potential alternatives, Hempia’s full-spectrum CBD oils may be an option. Rigorously lab-tested to ensure safety and efficacy, these oils are designed to provide similar benefits without the strict access constraints of prescription medications. To learn more about CBD dosage, we’ve also created a CBD DOSAGE CALCULATOR to help those who are confused.

In addition to its use for epilepsy, CBD is being studied for its effectiveness in managing neuropathic pain and as a possible treatment for chemotherapy side effects, including nausea and loss of appetite. These applications are particularly relevant for pediatric oncology patients, where treatment can be as debilitating as the disease itself.

Despite these promising uses, the importance of following doctors' recommendations and prescriptions remains paramount. CBD dosages must be carefully adjusted to avoid side effects, and any use in children must be done under strict medical supervision. This caution not only ensures the effectiveness of the treatment but also the safety of the young patient, minimizing the risks associated with inappropriate use of this compound.

Concerns and Regulations Surrounding CBD Use in Children

Although the therapeutic potential of CBD is promising, particularly for pediatric conditions, special attention must still be paid to possible side effects:

• Drowsiness and Fatigue: CBD has calming properties that can lead to drowsiness or feelings of fatigue, which can be problematic when it affects children's daily activities.

• Changes in appetite: Some children may experience a decrease or increase in appetite after taking CBD.

• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: As with many medications and supplements, CBD may cause digestive upset such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.

• Drug interactions: CBD can interact with other medications, increasing or decreasing their effect. Therefore, special care should be taken in children taking other treatments.

The regulatory framework plays a crucial role in ensuring that CBD products are safe and effective, especially when intended for children. In France, CBD regulations require rigorous testing for purity and the absence of contaminants, including psychoactive THC, which must remain below 0.3% to ensure safety and legality. These measures protect young users from the psychoactive effects associated with higher levels of THC.

Parents’ opinions and accessibility of CBD

The adoption of CBD for children by parents looking to alleviate various symptoms in their children is becoming increasingly common, although this approach is shrouded in caution. Parents’ testimonials often indicate significant improvement in conditions such as childhood sleep disorders or childhood anxiety , encouraging others to consider this option.

However, CBD accessibility and product safety remain major concerns. Traceability of CBD products is crucial to ensure that these products are not only effective but also free from harmful contaminants. Parents should ensure that the products they obtain for their children have a clear indication of their CBD and THC content, in accordance with current regulations. This is essential to avoid adverse effects and ensure that the CBD used is suitable for pediatric use.

Additionally, the accountability of CBD suppliers is under increasing scrutiny. Parents and caregivers must therefore opt for reliable sources that not only offer full traceability, but also guarantees of compliance with the strictest safety standards. This diligence is necessary to navigate a market where products vary widely in quality and reliability.