CannaChews

What are CannaChews?

CannaChews are hemp-based supplements designed to support the overall health of dogs. This supplement uses 99% broad spectrum cannabidiol (CBD). Possible benefits of CannaChews include treatment of digestive problems, nausea, anxiety, pain, inflammation, joints and mobility, epilepsy and seizures, aging and wellness, and skin diseases.

CBD supports dogs' nervous, gastrointestinal, and immune health through the endocannabinoid system, which is a group of specialized receptors in the brain, spine, peripheral nerves, blood vessels, and immune system.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health supplements (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health supplements must ensure their supplements are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health supplements” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These supplements are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health supplements in pets. Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it may also be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet CannaChews ?

• CannaChews are given by mouth (orally) in the form of a soft chewable treat.
• The supplement can be given with or without food; however, it is important to give CBD products the same way each time.
• If vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a treat. 
• Ideally, give supplements at the same time every day.
• Ensure access to fresh water at all times.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions for use of this supplement.
• Wash hands after handling.
• Do not handle if you have a known sensitivity to this supplement.

Studies show that CBD starts to take effect after 14 days of treatment at the dose recommended by veterinarians. In some cases, tolerance can develop, in which case your veterinarian may recommend an increase in the dose.

What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

• There are no documented side effects from CannaChews.
• Although not documented in CannaChews, oral supplements can cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as loose stools, flatulence and stomach upset. If this occurs, contact your veterinarian. 
• Sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. 
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This supplement should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease. 

Are there any risk factors for this supplement?

DO NOT USE CannaChews in:

• Pets who are allergic to it.

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Patients with liver dysfunction (a dose reduction is recommended in humans with liver impairment, and it is assumed that this applies to veterinary patients).

When used to control seizures, CBD containing products should be discontinued gradually, as a quick withdrawal can increase the risk of seizures.

Contact your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for CannaChews; however, several drugs should be used with caution when given with CBD-containing products, including:

• Amiodarone
• Azole antifugals (e.g., fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole)
• Benzodiazepines: (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam, midazolam).
• Central nervous system depressants (e.g., acepromazine, gabapentin, pregabalin, tramadol, trazodone)
• Chloramphenicol
• Cimetidine
• Clopidogrell
• Dexamethasone
• Diltiazem
• Fenofibrate
• Fluoxetine
• Glipizide
• Hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., lomustine, prednis[ol]one)
• Lidocaine
• Loperamide
• Opiods (e.g., fentanyl, methadone, morphine, tramadol)
• Phenobarbital
• Propofol
• Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole)
• Rifampin
• Sex-steroid hormones (e.g., estrogens, progestins)
• Sildenafil
• Theophylline/aminophylline
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs; e.g., amitriptyline, clomipramine)
• Warfarin

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?

• Your veterinarian may recommend checking your dog’s liver enzymes periodically while using products containing CBD.
• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If any occur, discontinue the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects. 

How do I store CannaChews?

• Store at room temperature in tightly sealed containers.
• Store in the original packaging.
• Keep out of reach of children.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the supplement/treatment, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.