The Wonderful World of Hemp Cannabinoids in Small Animal Practice

Course overview

This session will discuss factors for veterinarians to consider when recommending CBD-rich hemp based products. The focus will be on information to look for on a certificate of analysis (COA) of marketed products. Discussion will address the cannabinoid analysis from manufacturer's third party testing, as well as analyses for microbiologics, mycotoxins, solvent residues, heavy metals, pesticides and terpenes. More importantly, an understanding of whether companies have validated utility of the product through pharmacokinetic testing in the species intended will be covered. Safety considerations, with a deeper examination of current safety data around long term supplementation will also be addressed. As there is increasing evidence of efficacy of CBD rich hemp products for a variety of conditions, these studies will be examined with a focus on the growing evidence for chronic osteoarthritis pain, with further foray into acute surgical pain studies. Further evidence-based medicine will be examined around the growing number of trials addressing seizure disorders, with a focus not only on efficacy, but also on potential drug interactions. Lastly, evidence around pruritic diseases and the immune system will be examined, particularly as it pertains to atopic dermititis and cannabinoids as potential immune system regulators.