CBD for children: Can a child take CBD gummies? safety, legality, precautions

Key takeaways

• The World Health Organization says that CBD gummies are considered safe for therapeutic purposes, and a child can take them, as they may have some healing properties for children with certain medical conditions.
• Unregulated usage of CBD gummies for children may lead to adverse side effects. It may also interact with other medications.
• Most CBD dispensaries have a minimum age of 21 for entry and purchase, and some even require an accompanying adult for those under 21.

CBD gummies are fast becoming a popular means of taking CBD, as they are unnoticeable, easy to use, and come in different shapes and flavors. Similar to CBD oils, these gummies have become common in recent times, so it is not surprising to see that many people wonder if it is safe to use them for children. 

While some parents are wary of these chewy edibles, others swear you can use CBD gummies for child anxiety, insomnia, and other health issues. 

But Is it safe to use CBD gummies for kids? Find out in this piece.

Are CBD gummies safe for children?

There is limited evidence that CBD gummies are safe for children. However, some prolific bodies, like the World Health Organization (WHO), confirm that CBD gummies may have some healing benefits for kids with certain health conditions, such as Dravet syndrome.

The WHO further states that consuming CBD gummies does not result in the "high" effect that most people tend to associate with cannabis. And so far, there has not been an addictive quality linked to the use of CBD. 

Out of concern for the developing brains and bodies of children, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents should follow the regulatory process of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before administering CBD products.

Can CBD Help Children with ADHD?

One 2020 systematic review pointed out that CBD may help lower the signs of ADHD, including hyperactivity in children. 

However, there are no specific research studies that support the use of CBD for treating ADHD in children. The lack of research on the benefits of using CBD for children with ADHD. means that there are currently no official dosage guidelines. 

Before using CBD gummies for your child, it is crucial to consult with a doctor. If your child's doctor or treatment team recommends the use of CBD, then they can also advise on the best dosage.

Can CBD Help Treat Autism in Children?

The use of CBD in treating autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a topic that has garnered significant attention in recent years. Although there is poor research in this area, some studies have announced promising results in reducing problematic behaviors and improving communication abilities among children with ASD.

One study, conducted in Israel by Dr. Adi Aran and colleagues, involved treating 60 autistic children with a high-CBD cannabis oil containing 20% CBD and 1% THC for at least seven months.

After the treatment period, parents reported significant improvements in their child's behavior, communication, and anxiety levels. The specific results of the study are as follows:

• 80% of parents noted a decrease in problematic behaviors
• 62% of parents reported significant improvements. 
• Half of the children had improved communication
• 40% of parents revealed significant decreases in anxiety. 

Despite these promising findings, it is important to note that research in this area is still in its early stages. More studies are needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of CBD as a treatment for ASD. 

Concerns about CBD use for children

While CBD may benefit adults, there are more concerns about its use in children. These concerns center around the fact that CBD products are not regulated by the FDA, meaning their safety and effectiveness are not guaranteed.

Some potential risks of using CBD gummies for kids may include: 

1. May interact with other medications

CBD may interact with certain medications, which could cause side effects or reduce the drug's effectiveness. 

CBD is metabolized by the liver, where it is broken down in large parts by CYP3A4 enzymes. These enzymes also metabolize many prescription and over-the-counter medications, including some commonly prescribed to children, such as anti-seizure and antipsychotics. 

2. May cause adverse side effects

CBD may cause side effects ranging from nausea to fatigue to diarrhea in some children. While these side effects are generally mild, you must be aware of them and stop giving your child CBD if they experience any negative side effects.

3. Unfamiliarity with the proper CBD dosage

Determining the correct CBD dosage for children can be challenging due to the newness of its use and the lack of familiarity among people. 

The variation between clinical doses and what is available at coffee houses can make it difficult to determine the appropriate amount for children. As mentioned earlier, seeking professional advice and adhering to proper dosing guidelines is crucial for ensuring safe and effective use.

4. Uncertainty of products' safety

CBD products are not regulated by the FDA, which means there may be inconsistencies in the quality and safety of different products. 

As a parent, it is best to choose a reputable brand that has third-party lab testing. This helps you to ensure that the product you're giving your child is safe and contains the amount of CBD advertised on the label.

Can a child legally consume CBD gummies?

The legality of CBD gummy consumption for children varies from state to state, as there is no federal age requirement for CBD products. It is essential to refer to the cannabis laws specific to your respective state before allowing your child to consume CBD gummies. 

To determine whether the law of your state allows CBD gummy consumption for children, visit The National Cannabis Industry Association to get a comprehensive state-by-state breakdown of cannabis laws.

Parents with children with medical conditions that may benefit from CBD often travel or relocate to a cannabis-friendly state to administer CBD oils or gummies lawfully. A qualified pediatrician will offer personalized medical advice and guidance on the appropriate dosage and administration of CBD gummies to children.

Safety precautions to take when giving a child CBD gummies

If you are thinking of giving your child CBD gummies, here are some general safety precautions to consider:

1. Choose lab-tested CBD gummies

Lab testing of CBD products by independent third-party laboratories is of the utmost importance as it verifies the product's contents. 

Buying lab-tested CBD gummies allows you to identify crucial information like CBD concentration (mg/g), types of cannabinoids present, and the presence of contaminants like residual solvents and mycotoxins.

The testing results are usually reported in the Certificate of Analysis (COA), giving you a clear understanding of what is in the CBD gummies. 

2. Store the CBD gummies safely

Some safe ways to store CBD gummies are:

• Keep in a cool, dark place to minimize exposure to heat and light.
• Seal the product's container tightly to prevent the passage of air and moisture. 
• Do not keep in places with fluctuating temperatures, like near the window or bathroom. These conditions can accelerate the breakdown of CBD gummies. 

Storing your CBD gummies correctly will help maintain their quality, flavor, and potency, ensuring that your investment doesn't go to waste.

3. Be mindful of other medications

CBD can interact with medications with similar side effects, potentially increasing the risk of unwanted symptoms or toxicity. For example, if your child takes OTC or prescription medications, such as benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, or antidepressants, alongside CBD, they may experience increased feelings of sleepiness, fatigue, and possibly accidental falls.

Bottom line

In conclusion, using CBD gummies in children is a complex and evolving topic. Since there is insufficient scientific evidence to support their use, the effects of CBD gummies on children are not fully understood. 

Ultimately, parents should weigh the potential benefits and risks before deciding whether CBD gummies are an appropriate option for their child. It is also necessary to be cautious when considering alternative treatments for your child.