Australian government unveils proposal for over-the-counter CBD

Australia has published a framework for new CBD regulations as it considers relaxing its narcotics scheduling of cannabidiol to make it available over the counter in limited doses.

The Health Department proposal, revealed on Friday, could open a large new market in a nation with a thriving gray market for CBD but no legal access without a doctor’s prescription.

Hemp Industry Daily reported on Australia’s safety review of cannabidiol in January.

In Australia, CBD is currently a Schedule 4 substance and therefore only available with a prescription.

Under the proposed change, CBD would become a Schedule 3 substance, meaning no prescription is required, so long as the following conditions apply:

• The cannabidiol is either plant derived, or when synthetic subject to certain conditions
• The maximum recommended daily dose is 60 mg or less
• The product is in packs containing not more than 30 days’ supply
• Cannabidiol comprises 98% or more of the total cannabinoid content of the preparation
• Any cannabinoids, other than CBD, must be only those naturally found in cannabis and comprise 2% or less of the total cannabinoid content of the preparation
• The product is for adults 18 and over

Australia’s Health Department said it is accepting public comments on the new scheduling proposal in accordance with government regulations. The deadline for submissions is May 22.

The proposal will be discussed in June, the department said.