National survey data shows 15.4% of Americans used cannabis and 9.8% used CBD in the past month, with dual use peaking in young adults (18-25) and CBD-only use most common among seniors 65+.
Public health professionals, cannabis researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in how Americans actually use cannabis and CBD products.
What the researchers found
In 2023, 8.9% of Americans were exclusive cannabis users, 3.4% exclusive CBD users, and 6.4% dual users. Dual use peaked at 10.8% among 18-25-year-olds. Exclusive cannabis use peaked at 14.8% among 26-34-year-olds. CBD-only use was most prevalent among adults 65+ (5.0%). State medical cannabis legalization was associated with higher exclusive cannabis use and dual use.
Why it matters
Cannabis and CBD are often discussed together but used by different populations for different reasons. Understanding these distinct patterns helps target public health messages and research priorities to the right groups.
The numbers in context
56,705 total participants. 15.4% past-month cannabis use, 9.8% CBD use. Exclusive cannabis 8.9%, exclusive CBD 3.4%, dual use 6.4%. Dual use peak: 18-25 (10.8%). Cannabis peak: 26-34 (14.8%). CBD-only peak: 65+ (5.0%). Poor health: 3x higher odds of any use pattern. Medical legalization: 1.5x higher cannabis/dual use.
How the study worked
Analysis of the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Adolescents (12-17, n=11,572) and adults (18+, n=45,133). Past 30-day cannabis and CBD use patterns examined. Multinomial regressions assessed associated factors including demographics, health status, and state cannabis policy.
What this study cannot tell us
Self-reported use subject to recall and social desirability bias. Past 30-day window doesn't capture frequency or dose. CBD source (hemp vs. dispensary) not distinguished. Cross-sectional — cannot determine if health status drives use or vice versa.
How to read the evidence
Large nationally representative survey with robust methodology — strong for describing population-level patterns.
When this study was published
Published in 2026 using 2023 NSDUH data, the most recent comprehensive national survey available.
The bigger picture
The finding that CBD-only use peaks in seniors while dual use peaks in young adults suggests very different motivations. Older adults may seek targeted symptom relief, while young adults may experiment with multiple cannabinoid products. Health status was the strongest predictor across all patterns.
Questions still open
- Are seniors using CBD effectively for their health conditions? Is dual use among young adults driven by experimentation or specific therapeutic goals? How will further legalization shift these patterns?
Common questions
How common is cannabis use in America?
Do people use cannabis and CBD differently?
Read the original research
CBD, cannabis, or both? Examining use patterns and associated factors among U.S. youth and adults.
Addictive behaviors, 176, 108622
Citation
Dai, Hongying Daisy; Puga, Troy B. (2026). CBD, cannabis, or both? Examining use patterns and associated factors among U.S. youth and adults.. Addictive behaviors, 176, 108622. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2026.108622
Explore the wider topic
- CBD Oil Quality Guide: How to Avoid Snake Oil
- Anxiety After Quitting Weed: When to Consider Medication
- Cannabis for Chemotherapy Nausea: What the Evidence Actually Shows
- Cannabis for Chronic Pain: What the Research Actually Supports
- Cannabis and Epilepsy: The Epidiolex Story and What It Means
- Does CBD Actually Work for Anxiety? What the Evidence Shows
- Does CBD Help with Weed Withdrawal? What Studies Show
- CBD vs THC: The Differences That Actually Matter
- The Proven Medical Benefits of Cannabis: What Research Supports
- Quitting Weed Before Surgery
- Weed and Medications: What Changes When You Quit
- Quitting Weed During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
- Quitting Weed While Pregnant: What You Need to Know
- Cannabis and Older Adults: Risks Seniors Should Know
- Cannabis and Breastfeeding: THC in Breast Milk