Scientifically controversial basis
The discussion is primarily based on animal studies using very high doses of CBD. Many experts therefore criticize the fact that this data is hardly comparable to the real-world consumption of CBD products. Nevertheless, the classification could have far-reaching consequences. Once a substance is officially considered toxic to reproduction, stricter warnings, restrictions, or new regulatory hurdles may follow. Critics fear that the precautionary principle is being interpreted very strictly here, even though the actual relevance for people in everyday life remains controversial.
What could this mean for patients?
Should this classification be adopted in its current form, it could have a massive impact on access to CBD products. Full-spectrum products with low THC content, which many people use daily in low doses – for example, for chronic pain, sleep disorders, stress, anxiety, inflammation, or neurological conditions – would be particularly affected. In the worst-case scenario, certain products could disappear from over-the-counter sales in the long term and only be available through pharmacies or with a doctor's prescription. For many users, this would mean higher costs, less choice, and significantly more difficult access.
Why are certain CBD oils already disappearing today?
Some of you may have already noticed that certain full-spectrum CBD oils have been unavailable for order in Switzerland for some time now. This is currently unrelated to the EU's new classification of CBD as toxic to reproduction. The reason lies instead with the so-called Novel Food Regulation.
CBD products for oral consumption are legally classified as "novel foods" in Switzerland and the EU. Such products require official approval before they can be sold. Many CBD oils still lack this approval, rendering numerous products legally unmarketable.
Until now, many producers have officially sold their CBD oils as "chemicals" that are not legally intended for oral ingestion. In practice, however, most consumers still took these products orally. This gray area was largely tolerated or ignored for years. Now, the authorities are increasingly cracking down on this.
The current sales bans are therefore primarily related to food law and not directly to the new reproductive toxicity debate. Nevertheless, there is growing concern that the new EU classification could further increase the pressure on CBD products.
Small CBD companies are increasingly coming under pressure
Many patients are watching this development with concern. Often, small CBD companies with high-quality, full-spectrum products and regional production were their preferred suppliers. Many of our members have had very positive experiences with these CBD drops and, as a result, sometimes don't even need a prescription for THC-containing products.
These very CBD oils are now increasingly disappearing from the market or may only be available through pharmacies in the future. This would make them even more expensive and less accessible for many people. From the perspective of the Association MEDCAN, this is absolutely not a sensible approach.
Of course, we also want to ensure that only clean, inspected, and high-quality products are available on the market. At the same time, these products must remain affordable and easily accessible. That should be the true goal of sensible regulation.
Between consumer protection and overregulation
Of course, potential risks must be taken seriously and communicated transparently. Especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, one should generally be cautious with many substances – including cannabis products. At the same time, many people are wondering whether cannabis products are increasingly being treated more strictly than numerous other medications, some of which have significantly stronger side effects. Many patients are therefore viewing this development with great concern, particularly because they have often had positive experiences with CBD and cannabis products.
MEDCAN is closely monitoring the development
As a patient organization, MEDCAN is closely monitoring current developments. We remain committed to ensuring that people retain low-threshold, affordable, and safe access to cannabis products – especially when these improve their quality of life and help them in their daily routines.
Are you having trouble getting your hands on the CBD drops that have always helped you? Then please get in touch This email address is protected against spambots! JavaScript must be enabled to view it.with us. Exchanging information with those affected helps us to better assess the current situation and to make the concerns of patients visible.
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