FDA and FTC Send Warning Letter for Marketing Unapproved Drugs and Dietary Supplements Containing CBD
Wednesday, October 23, 2019

On October 10, the FDA and FTC sent a joint warning letter to Rooted Apothecary LLC for illegally selling unapproved drug products containing cannabidiol (CBD) online with unsubstantiated claims that the products treat teething pain and ear aches in infants, autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, among other conditions.

As described in the warning letter, the FDA and FTC stated that the company used its website, online store, and social media sites to make unfounded claims about its CBD products, some of which were also unlawfully marketed as dietary supplements. Examples of the claims include:

  • “Instead of synthetic chemical[s] that can have safety concerns, this blend uses the best of nature to help calm the inflammation and pain of teething, while also promoting sleepiness for your little one.”
  • “Increasing evidence suggests that CBD oil is a powerful option for pain . . . anxiety . . . and autism . . . It seems like an attractive and safe option for children.”
  • “CBD oil may have neuroprotective properties and may protect against neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.”

“[P]ossible uses for CBD include helping with skin problems such as acne, autism, ADHD, and even cancer. It’s often used in conjunction with traditional treatments to provide extra help. Children can use high amounts of CBD safely and without any risk.”

Additionally, the FTC was concerned that one or more of the efficacy claims cited may not be substantiated by competent and reliable scientific evidence. Under the Federal Trade Commission Act, it is unlawful to advertise that a product can prevent, treat, or cure human disease unless the advertiser possesses competent and reliable scientific evidence that substantiates the claims made.

The FDA has not approved any CBD products other than one prescription human drug product to treat rare, severe forms of epilepsy. However, as our readers may recall, in July 2019, the FDA announced their commitment to evaluating potential regulatory pathways for CBD products to be lawfully marketed, and that the Agency would report their progress by early fall 2019. As of today’s blog, the Agency has yet to advise on such pathways. Nonetheless, in a press release related to the October 10 warning letter, Acting FDA Commissioner Ned Sharpless, M.D. stated that the CBD-related warning letters “should send a message to the broader market about complying with FDA requirements.” Additionally, he noted that as the Agency continues to examine potential regulatory pathways for the lawful marketing of cannabis products, protecting and promoting public health through sound, science-based decision-making remains top priority.  We will continue to report on developments that impact the use of CBD in FDA regulated products.

 

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