A recent clinical trial raises concerns over CBD liver risks, showing that even low doses of cannabidiol can harm liver function. The FDA’s Division of Applied Regulatory Science conducted the study to caution users of over-the-counter CBD products.

About the Clinical Trial

Researchers assigned 201 healthy middle-aged volunteers to receive either 5 milligrams of oral CBD daily or a placebo. They designed the trial to reflect typical CBD consumption. While cannabidiol contains no THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, people widely use it for anxiety, sleep issues, pain relief and epilepsy.

Liver Enzyme Levels Show Concerning Changes

Most participants experienced no adverse effects. However, around 5% had significantly elevated aminotransferase levels, a liver enzyme indicating potential liver damage or inflammation. Women showed higher vulnerability than men. Liver enzyme levels returned to normal within one to two weeks after participants stopped taking CBD. Several participants left the study due to signs of potential drug-induced liver injury.

Expert Warnings About CBD Liver Risks

Amir Englund, PhD, from King’s College London, highlighted that this finding shows CBD itself can pose a risk to liver health, even without other medications. The study also revealed that participants with the most serious liver reactions often developed eosinophilia, an immune condition caused by overproduction of white blood cells. Prior studies linked high-dose CBD (over 1,000 mg daily) to liver injury, but this trial proves that even modest amounts can cause measurable effects.

Doctors Urge Awareness and Monitoring

Dr Paul Watkins, a pharmacy professor at the University of North Carolina, said that “users may not realise they are experiencing harm. Clinicians should routinely ask patients about CBD use when liver chemistry results appear abnormal.” CBD sales rose from $108 million in 2014 to $1.9 billion in 2022, and experts warn that stronger, more concentrated products could increase liver injury risks. Englund stressed, “Future studies should monitor liver enzyme levels, especially given the growing interest in CBD for conditions such as psychosis or cannabis use disorder.”

A Reminder About Hidden Risks

Although the liver often adapts to mild drug-induced stress, people should use caution. Regular users should consult medical professionals to avoid potential harm, and these findings remind us that even substances perceived as harmless may carry hidden risks.

Source: Hepmag