The prevalence of vaping CBD among e-cigarette users, particularly among students, has become a cause for concern. According to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 1 in 5 students who use electronic cigarettes reported vaping CBD, which is a component of marijuana that does not produce the same psychoactive effects as THC. Additionally, over 6% of students were unsure whether or not they had vaped CBD.[0]
To obtain these results, researchers analyzed data from a nationally representative sample of approximately 28,000 American students who participated in the Youth Tobacco Survey from January to May 2022.[0] Out of the 2,448 reported active e-cigarette users, 21.3% confirmed vaping CBD, while 6.3% were uncertain.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has made it clear that it considers synthetically produced cannabinoids, including delta-8 THC, to be federally illegal controlled substances. This stance was communicated during a May 2022 conference presentation, in which the DEA expressed support for adding all synthetic cannabinoids containing THC, including hemp-derived delta-8 THC, to the list of controlled substances.
The risks associated with vaping CBD among young people are twofold. Firstly, there are the risks inherent to vaping itself, such as potential harm to the lungs and other adverse effects.[1] Secondly, there are the risks associated with marijuana use, as CBD is derived from the cannabis plant. Dr. Diane Tanaka, the medical director of the Teenage and Young Adult Health Center at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, emphasized that young people often underestimate these risks.[0]
The increasing popularity of cannabis vaping among adolescents in the United States has been attributed to factors such as the easy availability and discreetness of vaping devices.[1] This trend has raised concerns among health experts, who warn of the potential serious risks associated with vaping CBD.
The lack of a uniform regulatory framework for CBD and cannabis within the European Union is a pressing issue.[2] While CBD is undergoing a transformation in terms of regulations, there is currently no comprehensive framework for medicinal cannabis.[2] As attitudes and policies continue to evolve, it is essential to gain insights into the complex regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis, hemp, CBD, and other cannabinoids in the EU.[3]
Delta-8 THC, a chemical compound found in cannabis, has gained attention for its potential therapeutic benefits. However, it is important to note that while delta-8 THC does occur naturally in cannabis plants, the majority of consumer delta-8 products are synthesized from hemp-derived CBD.
CBD, or cannabidiol, has emerged as a popular natural alternative for health and wellness. With its potential to promote relaxation, ease anxiety, and alleviate pain, CBD has become sought-after in wellness products. CBD tea, in particular, has gained traction for its holistic approach to health.[4]
Despite CBD's potential benefits, there are safety concerns associated with its use. The authors of the study emphasized that CBD can potentially harm the liver, lungs, and male reproductive system.[1] Therefore, it is crucial to determine the prevalence of vaping CBD among youths to assess the health consequences in this population.
The study's authors called for evidence-based educational campaigns, interventions, and public policy changes to reduce the potential harmful health outcomes of vaping CBD among young people. They also highlighted the need for increased awareness among young people about the risks associated with vaping CBD.
There have been cases where vape pens were found to be tainted with other substances, leading to unintended consequences for users.[5] This highlights the need for regulation and quality control in the CBD vaping market. The use of illicit vape products can pose significant risks to young people, as they may contain harmful substances or higher concentrations of THC.
Dr. Tanaka emphasized that young people may not even realize that they are vaping CBD, as they may mistake it for flavored vapor.[0] However, CBD use among youths can have detrimental effects on memory, neurotransmitter function, and overall brain development.
Health experts have reported severe cases of irritability, aggression, and other adverse effects among young people who vape CBD excessively. Some individuals have struggled to quit vaping and have required nicotine patches or gum to break the addiction.
In light of these concerns, it is crucial for regulatory agencies, educators, and healthcare professionals to work together to address the rising trend of CBD vaping among young people. Comprehensive regulation, targeted education campaigns, and evidence-based interventions are needed to protect the health and well-being of young people and ensure they have accurate information about the risks associated with CBD use.
0. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens | Fox 11 Tri Cities …” www.fox41yakima.com, 14 Sep. 2023, https://www.fox41yakima.com/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/
1. “U.S. teens vaping CBD at alarming rates: Study reveals surprising …” www.news-medical.net, 14 Sep. 2023, https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230830/US-teens-vaping-CBD-at-alarming-rates-Study-reveals-surprising-factors-behind-trend.aspx
2. “European Union CBD and Cannabis Regulation Report 2023: A” www.globenewswire.com, 14 Sep. 2023, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/09/12/2741442/0/en/European-Union-CBD-and-Cannabis-Regulation-Report-2023-A-Complex-Journey-through-the-EU-s-Quest-for-Medicinal-Cannabis-Regulations.html
3. “Poland CBD and Cannabis Regulation Analysis Report 2023 …” www.businesswire.com, 14 Sep. 2023, https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230913973802/en/Poland-CBD-and-Cannabis-Regulation-Analysis-Report-2023-Framework-for-Hemp-Processing-and-CBD-Products-Expected-to-Remain-Unchanged—ResearchAndMarkets.com
4. “CBD Tea Trends: What's Hot in Wholesale and Wellness – News …” www.news-reporter.com, 14 Sep. 2023, https://www.news-reporter.com/cbd-tea-trends/
5. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens – Islander News” www.islandernews.com, 14 Sep. 2023, https://www.islandernews.com/lifestyle/health/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/article_86fbfdb8-2967-5783-bec0-d950021d02a8.html
