In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has generated considerable interest and discussion regarding health and well-being. However, several questions remain concerning the legality and potential risks associated with this substance for those living in France. One of the most frequently asked questions is which type of doctor is authorized to prescribe CBD as a medical treatment. This article aims to provide a detailed answer to this question.
The Legal Framework for CBD in France Before discussing the types of doctors who can prescribe CBD,
it is essential to understand the current legal context surrounding its use in France.
CBD is one of the many compounds found in cannabis, and unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it does not produce psychoactive effects. Thus, consuming CBD does not lead to a “high,” which explains why it has been widely adopted for a variety of medical and therapeutic uses in several countries.
- However, the legal status of CBD in France differs from that of other European countries. The production, distribution, and sale of CBD are strictly regulated in France, with limited tolerance for products containing less than 0.2% THC. Furthermore, only certain forms of CBD are permitted, such as essential oils and crystals. Cannabis flowers, for example, are completely prohibited from sale in France.
- Medical cannabis prescription
- In some cases, medical cannabis can be prescribed to treat a variety of medical conditions. In 2019, a trial was launched in France concerning the use of cannabis for medical purposes in the form of medications containing THC and/or CBD. This trial is scheduled to last two years and involves approximately 3,000 patients suffering from various conditions, including:
chronic pain,treatment-resistant epilepsy,
multiple sclerosis,
certain forms of cancer, and
Dravet syndrome.
- This trial allows specialist and general practitioners who have volunteered and undergone specific training to prescribe medical cannabis to their patients.
- However, they must adhere to certain conditions and cannot issue these prescriptions at their discretion. It is therefore important to consult a doctor before considering the use of medical cannabis to treat a particular condition.
- Doctors Who Can Prescribe CBD in France
It is crucial to note that while some doctors can prescribe medical cannabis, this does not mean they can prescribe CBD as a standalone treatment. Due to the strict regulations surrounding the use of cannabinoids in France, it is essential to understand which type of doctor can actually prescribe CBD for a specific medical use.
Specialist Doctors
Certain specialist doctors have the necessary skills and training to prescribe or recommend CBD to their patients: Neurologists may be authorized to prescribe CBD to treat certain forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome.Oncologists can discuss with their patients the possibility of using CBD as a complement to other therapies as part of a personalized cancer treatment plan.
Rheumatologists may consider CBD for patients with chronic pain associated with joint disorders.
For patients with mental health issues such as anxiety, a psychiatrist might recommend CBD under certain conditions.
Gastroenterologists may include CBD in a treatment plan for patients with gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Therefore, it is up to each specialist to assess whether CBD is appropriate for their patients’ specific needs in treating their condition.
