Can You Get a Prescription for CBD?

Can You Get a Prescription for CBD?

Hemp-derived CBD is legal, but it’s not FDA-approved, making it difficult for doctors to prescribe it.

It’s possible to find a doctor that will prescribe it, but even if they do, insurance companies won’t cover it due to its lack of approval. 

There is only one prescription drug with CBD as an ingredient: Epidiolex.

It’s the only FDA-approved medication and used to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex.

Do I Need a Prescription to Buy CBD? 

CBD is available online and in physical stores without a prescription, so there’s really no reason to bother getting one.

CBD is safe and has minimal side effects, even in large amounts. The plethora of information available makes it easy to find what you need and how much to take.

While CBD is easy to find, each state has varying laws. Some have certain restrictions, such as not allowing it in food or drinks, while others have no restrictions.

Iowa and Idaho are the only two states to ban it. Check your local laws before buying anything.

Of course, if you’re on medication or have underlying health issues, it’s always best to talk to your doctor first.

What is CBD Used For?

CBD has many benefits; however, it affects everyone differently. Here are the most common reasons people turn to it for help.

Pain Relief

CBD acts as an analgesic, making it popular among those suffering from chronic pain.

Its impact on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps reduce inflammation and interacts with neurotransmitters. The best part is that it has minimal side effects, unlike prescription medicines used for chronic pain management [1].

Relief From Anxiety & Depression

CBD is commonly used to help reduce the effects of anxiety and depression [2]. Many CBD products help ease stress.

Sleep Support

Insomnia affects many people. This lack of sleep quickly interferes with other aspects of life, causing detrimental effects on mood and health. CBD calms the mind and body, leading to better sleep.

Reduce Vomiting

Cancer patients struggle with nausea and vomiting. CBD is effective and easing and often preventing these symptoms [3].

The Best Way To Buy CBD

While you can find CBD in local stores, this is usually not the best choice. Not only is your selection limited, but prices are higher, and quality is questionable.

The main reason to buy CBD oil online is that it’s easier to check lab reports. Without these, you have no guarantee what you’re buying.

Online vendors often manufacture their products themselves, making everything fresher. These products aren’t sitting on a store shelf for weeks or months after sitting in a warehouse somewhere.

Physical stores also have costs that online stores don’t. Rent, wages, and utilities add to the cost of your products. Online stores can keep prices low.

It’s also easier to review online products. With so many fake CBD products out there, it’s crucial that the vendor you buy from is honest. Otherwise, you could end up with a product that, at best, doesn’t work.

These low-quality products can be dangerous, too, so don’t be afraid to shop around. Local stores rarely have customer reviews or testing available to really know what you’re buying.

Precautions To Take When Buying CBD 

The most important aspect is to pay the right price for safe, high-quality products. Here’s a checklist to make it easier.

1. Try to check online, comparing different websites. Check customer reviews.
2. Some scam CBD sellers may offer exceptionally great deals. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
3. Because the market is not fully regulated, check for third-party lab reports and certifications for the products. If there are no lab reports, buy elsewhere.

Other Cannabis Medications That Require a Prescription

Some medications have cannabinoids or synthetic THC and require a prescription. The doctor’s recommendation is needed to prevent their misuse. 

Epidiolex

It’s the first and only FDA-approved medication containing CBD. It exploded into the market as a breakthrough treatment for seizures associated with various syndromes. It can be given to patients who are one year old and above. Epidiolex is an oral suspension made of CBD oil.   

Dexanabinol

This formulation contains synthetic derivatives of cannabis that are entirely different in their actions. These are being researched further for use as an anticonvulsant and nervous disorder. Some states have banned its use.

Dronabinol

This is available under many brand names and is FDA-approved for use in some instances.  

It’s used to help HIV/AIDS patients in the treatment of anorexia and in cancer patients suffering from nausea due to chemotherapy. It helps to stimulate appetite and better sleep. Dronabinol also has some analgesic properties.

Summary: You Don’t Need a CBD Prescription

CBD oil and its products can be an excellent alternative medicine or supplement. You can get CBD-based products without a prescription.

However, it’s important to check the vendor before buying anything. Only choose the best CBD products online by choosing a reputable brand. Whatever you do, stick to the laws of the state that you live in.

References

1. Darkovska-Serafimovska, M., Serafimovska, T., Arsova-Sarafinovska, Z., Stefanoski, S., Keskovski, Z., & Balkanov, T. (2018). Pharmacotherapeutic considerations for use of cannabinoids to relieve pain in patients with malignant diseases. Journal of pain research, 11, 837.
2. Zanelati, T. V., Biojone, C., Moreira, F. A., Guimarães, F. S., & Joca, S. R. (2010). Antidepressant‐like effects of cannabidiol in mice: possible involvement of 5‐HT1A receptors. British journal of pharmacology, 159(1), 122-128.
3. Parker, L. A., Rock, E. M., & Limebeer, C. L. (2011). Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids. British journal of pharmacology, 163(7), 1411-1422.