2024-08-29 15:13:41
Ingestion of CBD during pregnancy may affect brain development and function after birth and increase the risk of psychological disorders, according to a study from the University of Aix-Marseille, reported by the Inter-Ministerial Mission to Combat Drugs and Addictive Behaviors (Mild Card). Press releases summarize the state of knowledge.
By 2022, 10% of French people will have consumed cannabidiol (CBD) at least once during the year. The most affected age group is 18-34 years old, of whom 27.6% have tried CBD consumption and 17.5% have consumed it at least once in a year. However, CBD-based products carry the risk of harmful health effects. Scientific research published in recent weeks highlights some of these issues.
CBD and pain: A seemingly ineffective, expensive and potentially harmful use
CBD products are sometimes used for pain relief. However, a recent article published by the American Society for the Study of Pain (USASP) shows that this use is ineffective and costly, according to its authors. Of 16 studies questioning CBD’s effectiveness in fighting pain, 15 found no evidence of effectiveness. In these studies, CBD was no more effective than a placebo in reducing pain. CBD products may also cause health risks. They do likely contain other chemicals, some of which may be harmful.
CBD and pregnancy: potential risks to brain development and function
A study published in June 2024 by researchers at the University of Aix-Marseille assessed the effects of prenatal exposure to CBD on the brains of animals. More specifically, the work focused on a brain region called the insular cortex, which is involved in emotion regulation and pain perception. This study shows that in mice, prenatal exposure to CBD changes the properties of neurons in this brain region. Researchers highlight potential harmful effects on human brain development and function, and may increase the risk of psychiatric disorders after birth (anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, etc.). Another study published in June 2023 by researchers in Colorado, USA, concluded that neurodevelopment and postnatal behavior were disrupted in the offspring of mice exposed to CBD. This work therefore calls for vigilance regarding the potential long-term consequences of individuals exposed to CBD in utero, particularly on brain development.
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#Prenatal #exposure #CBD #risk #psychological #disorders
