Safety assessment on CBD-rich hemp extract in sub-chronic cross-sex study with rats

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid from Cannabis sativa L., in which there is currently growing interest for medicinal use. Here, we focused on the safety and pharmacokinetics of a CBD-rich (77 %, w/w) full-spectrum hemp extract in male and female rats. A 90-day sub-chronic toxicity assay was conducted with doses of 0.5, 5, 10, and 35 mg CBD extract/kg/day administered orogastrically. No adverse effects or disruption in organ or body weight, behaviour, locomotion, food intake, or impact on morbidity/mortality were observed. Pathomorphological examination showed no gastrointestinal or liver changes. Blood cell analysis showed a significant (p