Do you need a prescription to buy CBD?

CBD is just about everywhere. It has made its way into many of the realms of our day to day lives. Although it can be found in a variety of forms, one of the most popular ways that it is taken worldwide is through the use of CBD oil. Even though many businesses selling CBD products have begun to explode in popularity, there is still some confusion among the general public regarding what is and what isn’t legal when it comes to using CBD. 

A few years ago, in 2018, a federal law referred to as the Farm Bill gave way for all plants of the Cannabis Sativa L strain to enter their way onto the market as long as they contained less than 0.3% THC. Despite this, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still maintains the authority to regulate any and all CBD products. Because of the many specifics regarding the legality of this popular substance, it can be frustrating to figure out what is really allowed in terms of consumption. Read below to learn more and see if you need a prescription to buy CBD products. 

 

Is CBD legal?

CBD is an active compound that derives from the cannabis plant. In the past few years, its popularity has grown due to evidence that shows benefits such as joint pain relief and anxiety reduction. It is able to be extracted both from marijuana and hemp plants, however, most products on the market contain CBD extracted from hemp due to its much lower levels of THC (THC is what produces the psychoactive high associated with marijuana). 

Even though, as mentioned above, CBD with THC levels of less than 0.3% are legal nationwide, different states have differing laws and regulations about certain facets of the product. Some states allow absolutely no THC to be present in CBD products sold in their jurisdiction, while others allow THC levels all the way up to 5%. This can sometimes complicate things which is why many people just opt for non THC containing CBD products which are minimally regulated. 

 

Do I need a prescription for CBD?

In 36 states, as of now, there are laws that allow marijuana products to be used for medical purposes. Those interested are allowed to apply for a card that gives them access to cannabis products to be used for their health issues. However, those who do not live in one of these states pretty much just have CBD oil as an option (this does not require one of those special cards). 

In the United States, as long as the CBD is derived from the hemp plant and contains less than 0.3% THC, it is not required to get a prescription from a doctor to purchase the product. Pretty much anyone has access to these products, especially now that they have become so readily available both in brick and mortar and online stores. 

 

 

 

Is CBD approved by the FDA?

As of now, Epidiolex — a medicine that is used specifically for the treatment of patients with epilepsy cases that are resistant to traditional treatment — is the only CBD product that is officially approved by the FDA. 

Much of the legal nature of CBD products are dictated by the way that they are packaged, labeled, and marketed to customers. Because of this, there are some companies that offer low quality, non-organic products which are allowed to stand due to the lack of regulation. To overcome this problem, it is always best to choose a CBD oil source that is reputable and upfront about their products. 

 

Can CBD oil be bought over the counter?

One of the easiest places to purchase CBD oil and related products is on. This provides you with ease of access to a variety of products that you can choose from quickly. Nevertheless, there are many stores, even big name brands such as Walgreens and CVS, which have CBD products now offered in their stores without a prescription. 

Regardless of where you decide to purchase your CBD oil, it is best to go with companies that offer high quality products — preferably those that are organic. This way you can ensure that your experience with the oil will be one that is consistent and of a top caliber.