A recent study by the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University reveals that exposure to cannabidiol (CBD) during pregnancy may lead to early deficits in cardiac function in male offspring. This research adds to the growing body of evidence cautioning against the use of CBD and cannabis during pregnancy due to potential adverse effects on fetal development and offspring health.
Approximately seven percent of pregnant women in North America consume cannabis, viewing it as a safe remedy for managing nausea and anxiety. Cannabis contains two major components: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), with THC known to be harmful to fetuses and offspring. Until recently, less attention has been paid to the effects of CBD. The Hardy Lab at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, led by Dan Hardy, PhD, has focused on studying the impact of both THC and CBD on fetal health.
Their latest study, published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, led by PhD Candidate Kendrick Lee, demonstrates that CBD exposure during pregnancy results in male offspring showing early signs of impaired heart function. This study is among the few that have investigated the impacts of CBD on offspring, suggesting that CBD may not be as safe during pregnancy as previously thought.
In a prior study, the team discovered that moderate CBD exposure during pregnancy could lead to glucose intolerance in male offspring. This research was groundbreaking in demonstrating that CBD, like THC, poses risks to offspring exposed during pregnancy. The recent study further explored the effects of prenatal CBD exposure on cardiac function, revealing that male offspring weaned off breast milk exhibited reduced cardiac function and lower levels of cannabinoid receptor 2 protein. This suggests long-term compromise to the endocannabinoid system in the heart, which could predispose individuals to various cardiovascular issues.
Why It Matters: This research underscores the importance of reevaluating the safety of CBD consumption during pregnancy. It challenges the perception of CBD as a harmless substance and highlights the need for further investigation into its effects on fetal development and offspring health.
Potential Implications: The findings from these studies suggest that consuming CBD during pregnancy, whether alone or as part of cannabis, is likely harmful to offspring. This could have significant implications for public health recommendations and regulatory policies regarding CBD use among pregnant women. Further research, including clinical studies, is essential to fully understand the scope of CBD’s impact on fetal development and to guide pregnant women in making informed decisions about CBD consumption.
Source: Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
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