Daily Use of a Broad-Spectrum Cannabidiol Supplement Produces Detectable Concentrations of Cannabinoids in Urine Prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency: An Effect Amplified by Exercise

Background Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid, is used by athletes to enhance recovery and manage other conditions (e.g., poor sleep, anxiety). Although CBD is not prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), other cannabinoids found in “broad-spectrum” CBD products (e.g., cannabigerol (CBG), cannabidivarin (CBDV)), remain prohibited. Objectives This study aimed to determine whether 10-weeks’ use of a broad-spectrum CBD product (150 mg . day [containing trace concentrations of CBG]) could lead to detectable concentrations of prohibited cannabinoids in urine and plasma. The influence of moderate-intensity exercise was also assessed. Methods Thirty-six healthy individuals (47% male) self-administered either a broad-spectrum CBD product (n = 31; CBD) or a visually identical placebo (n = 5; PLA) for 10-weeks. After 10-weeks, participants completed a fasted, 90-minute bout of moderate-intensity exercise (55% VO 2peak ). Blood and urine samples were collected at baseline (pre-supplementation) and pre- and post-exercise. Results No cannabinoids or metabolites were detected at baseline in either the PLA or CBD group. Following 10-weeks of supplementation, urinary concentrations of CBD and its metabolites (6-OH-CBD, 7-COOH-CBD, 7-OH-CBD) were present. CBG and CBDV were also detected in 42% and 68% of pre-exercise samples, respectively. Urinary concentrations of 6-OH-CBD (P = 0.006), 7-OH-CBD (P = 0.009), CBD (P = 0.043), CBG (P = 0.0023) and CBDV (P = 0.033) also increased from pre- to post-exercise. CBG and CBDV were detected in 74% and 84% of post-exercise samples, respectively. Concentrations of ∆ 9 -THC or its metabolites (11-OH-THC, 11-COOH-THC) were not present at any timepoint. Conclusions Daily use of a broad-spectrum CBD supplement resulted in detectable urinary concentrations of WADA-prohibited cannabinoids in urine. Exercise appeared to increase concentrations of these cannabinoids. Therefore, athletes should avoid consuming broad-spectrum CBD products, given the potential associated anti-doping risks.