The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the marketing of four cannabinoid medications in the U.S. Marijuana and other products containing cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil and vape cartridges containing delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have not been approved for therapeutic (or “medical”) use by the FDA and are illegal under federal law. Yet, most states now allow certain cannabinoid products to be used for various therapeutic purposes. Additionally, lawmakers in multiple states have introduced legislation in recent years that would require health plans and workers’ compensation programs to cover non-FDA approved cannabinoid products for therapeutic use. However, such legislation could create conflicts with federal law, yield legal risk for employers, and pose health risks for employees.
In addition, food and supplement products containing cannabinoids have risen in popularity over the past few years and have been misleadingly marketed as a cure-all for many medical conditions, including cancer, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, and diabetes. These products do not undergo the same rigorous testing as prescription drugs. For example, consumers cannot be certain of the potency, purity, or appropriate dosing of cannabinoid products, which can lead to harm. Additionally, some companies have made misleading claims about the therapeutic purpose of their products, and others have sold adulterated products containing harsh chemicals or undisclosed quantities of THC.
