What does the ANM (French National Academy of Medicine) think of CBD?
Last December, the French National Agency for Medicinal Products issued a press release on the subject of CBD. In this press release, the Agency openly took a position on the subject of this cannabinoid. In the rest of this article, we take a closer look at what was said and the possible impact of such an announcement.
TheAcadémie nationale de médecine (ANM) is an independent French organization founded in 1820. Its role is to provide assessments and recommendations on the evolution of the medical world, new medical technologies and new practices.
In the most objective way possible, the French National Academy of Medicine provides a body of information that is both objective and scientific. The aim of this information is to support doctors, patients and decision-makers (i.e. elected representatives) in making informed healthcare decisions.
But how does the ANM achieve such results? In order to deliver objective, scientific opinions, the ANM relies on the scientific evidence at its disposal, which it then evaluates for veracity, processes, etc...
With this in mind, the ANM proposes a series of recommendations and practices for healthcare professionals. These recommendations are generally published in reports and guides to inform doctors, patients and healthcare professionals alike.
She recently made the headlines for her return to the subject of cannabis, CBD and cannabinoids. This report was eagerly awaited, since it was the medical world's turn to speak out on cannabidiol.
The ANM and cannabis
In its report, theANM returns to the subject of CBD, THC and bisphenols in the hemp plant, rightly pointing out that cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol are two relatively different molecules, one being psychotropic (CBD), the other not (THC).
In its press release, the FrenchNational Academy of Medicine states that CBD consumption is not harmful to health. On the contrary, it could have certain positive effects on the body, as part of the fight against stress and anxiety, or as part of sporting activities.
But that's not all. In a bid to alert the public and be perfectly transparent on the CBD issue, the ANM has made several proposals concerning information and the reality of adverse effects linked to taking cannabidiol. Here are the 4 avenues explored:
Improved information on CBD product packaging: the ANM is calling for CBD product packaging to be reviewed and improved to provide consumers with all the necessary information. The aim is to simplify access to information, whether on the risks of drug interactions, adverse effects, or risks associated with driving or roadside checks.
Improved information on the question of dosage: the question of the quantity of CBD consumed is important. The ANM is calling for consumers to be informed about the dose of CBD (in mg). Consumers also need to be made aware that if consumption exceeds 50mg/day, then the risks of drug interactions are real (in the case of someone on medication, of course).
Harmonization of conditions of access to products:The ANM would like to see regulations and conditions of access to CBD-based products rapidly harmonized, not least because of the diversity of products on the market. This would enable us to provide appropriate support.
Studies on the CBD - cigarette relationship: The ANM would like to see work carried out on flower CBD consumed by combustion. The Academy would like to explore the possibility that this method of consumption could constitute a behavioral incentive to use cigarettes (tobacco or cannabis).
Lastly, the ANM is keen to point out the undesirable effects of CBD, "we must not ignore its potential undesirable effects such as reduced alertness or digestive disorders" a series of effects that could impact certain practices, particularly that of sport.
A reminder of the risks of undesirable effects of CBD
As a reminder, cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the hemp and cannabis plants. It is known for its potential positive effects on ailments such as stress, anxiety, pain and inflammation, as well as addiction (although further studies are needed).
Drowsiness ;
Diarrhea ;
Nausea ;
Fatigue ;
Irritation of the mouth ;
Dizziness ;
Lower blood pressure ;
Dizziness ;
Dry mouth.
Finally, taking CBD may involve drug interaction. People undergoing treatment (cancer, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, thyroid, etc.) should check with their doctor to make sure they are allowed to consume CBD products.
The impact of the ANM's announcement
Basically, such an announcement shouldn't change anything. Indeed, the CBD issue has already been settled in France, since products derived from the hemp plant are now legal, provided they contain less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the active molecule of the cannabis plant).
On the other hand, the ANM's position could have repercussions on the legalization of cannabis for therapeutic use, and on the way CBD is sold. The legislator could, in fact, be called upon to modify certain practices, to bring them closer to what medicine recommends.
In any case, the issues of CBD and medical cannabis are becoming increasingly important in discussions and in our society. So the next few years should be quite interesting from that point of view.
