The use of marijuana and marijuana-related substances is prohibited by all military service members (active duty, reserves, and guardsmen) and civilian employees of the Department of Defense. Even though some states have decriminalized or legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use, under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal Schedule I controlled substance, with a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. .

Marijuana use is the leading cause of a positive military drug test, accounting for 78.7% of all unique positive results among active duty Air Force members. This is according to the Department of Defense Drug Abuse Status – Fiscal Year 2020 Drug Testing Statistical Report and Analysis.

“This campaign aims to increase awareness and understanding of DoD banned substances, provide educational information on the topic of marijuana banned substances, and highlight available resources,” said Kim Harris, Services Coordinator. Eglin Civilian Health Promotion Center.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana comes from the cannabis plant and contains many natural compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the psychoactive chemical that produces impairment and the “high” that marijuana is often known for.

What is CBD?

CBD is short for “cannabidiol” and comes from hemp. You might find CBD used in:

• Tablets, capsules and capsules
• gummies
• Oils
• Topicals like lotions, creams, and ointments
• Skin care products including beauty products, acne treatments and bath bombs

Other than a prescription drug to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved any other CBD products.

What is hemp?

Hemp comes from the cannabis plant. Hemp can be found in common products, including:

• Hemp milk and coffee
• Granola and energy bars
• Chips and crackers
• Protein powder and yogurt
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Lotion, soap and hand sanitizer

It is important to read the ingredients of foods, drinks, lotions and oils before use. Hemp and CBD products are not regulated by the FDA and may contain understated levels of THC.

DoD and service level policies prohibit service members from eating and using products made or derived from hemp to include CBD, regardless of stated or actual THC levels. This policy is necessary to ensure military readiness while ensuring the reliability and integrity of the drug testing program. The ban does not apply to durable goods such as clothing.

For federal employees, the use of marijuana products by any method – smoking, eating, and/or applying as an ointment – is prohibited, regardless of state or local laws.

The FDA has warned the public to be wary of using commercially available hemp and CBD products. The THC concentration levels of these products are not certified and may contain higher levels of psychoactive THC than indicated on the product label. The DoD and component services have an active drug testing program for military and civilian employees that readily detects THC use.

For those whose lives are negatively affected by marijuana use, there are many options that lead to recovery. If you or a loved one need help, contact the Employee Assistance Program or Military OneSource for free, confidential information and a referral to treatment.

Military and Families: Military One Source (800) 342-9647 or visit militaryonesource.mil.

Civilian employees and families: Employee Assistance Program (866) 580-9078 or visit AFPC.af.mil/.

For more information on educational materials on DoD prohibited marijuana-related substances, call 883-8024 or visit USAFwellness.com.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration collects information on thousands of state-licensed providers who specialize in treating substance use disorders and addiction. For help finding treatment, contact FindTreatment.gov or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).