Author: Katsiaryna Bykov
Katsiaryna Bykov
Katsiaryna Bykov, PharmD, ScD, is a pharmacoepidemiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School. Originally trained as a pharmacist, she completed her research doctorate in epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and has been conducting research on medication use, safety, and effectiveness for more than a decade.
Products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are increasingly popular, promising relief from insomnia, hot flashes, chronic pain, and seizures. While some claims are supported by research, others are simply hype. However, trying CBD isn’t without risks. CBD is a biologically active compound, which means it can have unintended consequences, including interactions with supplements, herbal products, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and prescription drugs. The Nature of CBD: More Than Just a Harmless Supplement Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a biologically active compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD doesn’t produce a “high,” but it does interact with the body in significant…
In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a prominent player in the wellness industry. From health food stores to major pharmacy chains, CBD-infused products have become increasingly ubiquitous. However, despite its widespread availability, many consumers still have questions about CBD’s nature, effectiveness, and legal status. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of CBD, separating fact from fiction and offering evidence-based insights. What is CBD? Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its well-known counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce psychoactive effects or the “high” associated with…
Hemp and marijuana are two distinct varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant species that have been the subject of much confusion and controversy. While both plants share many similarities, they have significant differences in their composition, uses, and legal status. This article aims to provide a detailed, accurate, and easy-to-understand explanation of the key differences between hemp and marijuana. The Basics: What Are Hemp and Marijuana? Hemp and marijuana are both derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. The main difference between the two lies in their tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, which is the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated…