Effects of a Supplement Containing Cannabidiol (CBD) on Sedation and Ataxia Scores and Health.
Authors: St Blanc Michael P, Chapman Anna M, Keowen Michael L, Garza Frank, Liu Chin-Chi, Gray Lydia, Andrews Frank M
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Effects of CBD Supplementation on Equine Health and Behaviour A 56-day randomised, blinded trial investigated whether daily oral CBD supplementation (150 mg hemp extract) would induce sedation, ataxia, or adversely affect health parameters in 20 clinically healthy adult Thoroughbreds. Researchers assigned horses to treatment or control groups, with masked observers scoring sedation and ataxia weekly using standardised protocols, whilst comprehensive blood work (CBC and biochemical panels) and clinical monitoring occurred throughout the study period. The CBD-supplemented group showed no statistically significant differences in sedation or ataxia scores compared to controls (all scores remained 0–2), with no treatment-related changes in haematological values, liver or renal function, electrolytes, or blood proteins; all horses gained weight appropriately with no adverse clinical effects recorded. For practitioners considering CBD supplementation in their practice, this evidence indicates that a 150 mg daily dose appears well-tolerated and does not compromise cognitive function or gait—important considerations when advising clients on behavioural or performance concerns where sedation risk might otherwise be a contraindication. Whilst this study confirms safety over an eight-week period, longer-term efficacy data and investigation of higher or lower doses for specific clinical conditions remain valuable avenues for future research.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •A 150 mg daily CBD supplement appears safe for healthy adult Thoroughbreds with no observable sedation, ataxia, or clinical adverse effects during 56 days of use
- •CBD supplementation did not alter standard health biomarkers, making it suitable as an adjunctive therapy without concern for hepatotoxicity or metabolic interference
- •Horses readily consume CBD-containing pellets, facilitating compliance with oral supplementation protocols in equine practice
Key Findings
- •CBD supplement (150 mg) was readily consumed by all horses with no adverse effects over 56 days
- •No statistically significant differences in sedation or ataxia scores between CBD-treated and control groups (scores ranged 0-2 for all horses)
- •No treatment effects observed on CBC, biochemical panel, liver enzymes, kidney values, electrolytes, or calcium at days 28 and 56
- •All horses gained body weight by day 56 with no treatment-by-day interaction effect