Retail pharmacy practices are under pressure. The pressure frequently comes from PBM’s, who decrease drug reimbursements. While state and federal legislators are working to fix this problem and force PBM’s to deal more fairly with independent community pharmacies, you must ask yourself, “Will it really help? Do I have time to wait? Or will PBMs just find other ways to decrease margins and run us out of business?”

This pressure forces you to be even more creative and look at non-traditional ways to survive and thrive. One of the most promising opportunities in recent years is high-quality, pharmacist-formulated CBD.

Now your initial reaction to the idea of selling cannabinoids might be negative. After all, it was only a few years ago that federal law made selling CBD legal.1 Most of us learned about cannabis as a gateway drug growing up in the late 80’s and early 90’s (think Nancy Reagan’s “Just Say No” campaign). We understand your concerns, while marijuana with higher THC levels may pose risks, modern research also highlights its potential therapeutic benefits. That said, our focus here isn’t on THC, but on CBD, which offers a different profile of effects. But we are not talking about Marijuana; we are talking about CBD.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural occurring compound found in commercial hemp. It is not psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high”, and is one of over 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids. The real interesting thing is how it works, or its mechanism of action (MOA).

Human bodies have two specific cannabinoid receptors – CB1 and CB2. CBD binds to both. CB1 receptors are predominantly found in the central nervous system (CNS) and in peripheral tissues like the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts. CB2 Receptors are found in the immune system, like T cells, macrophages and B cells, as well as peripheral tissues like the spleen. These receptors modulate the release and reuptake of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. They also inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, Il-6, and TNFα.

The MOA is important because we are pharmacists, and we believe in science. Frankly, the science around CBD is still young in its development. After all, researching CBD was authorized in 2015 and selling CBD was legalized in December 2018. But what we know so far is exciting! Because we have specific cannabinoid receptors, our bodies know what to do with this natural compound, and it can have an immediate effect – without the “high” of marijuana.

So, what is CBD good for? Well, we know it reduces seizures. The FDA-approved drug Epidiolex and the research surrounding it has proven that2. And it makes sense. CBD modulates serotonin, gamma-amino hutyric acid (GABA), T-type calcium channels and other neurochemicals. With that understanding, what else might it do?

• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces anxiety
• Modulates chronic pain
• Decreases insomnia
• Decreases in addictive cravings

It depends. The chemical itself is, but it all comes down to how and where each product is produced. Because each state regulates CBD for its own residents, but not for other states, it is still an untamed marketplace. The only way to know if you have a “good” CBD is to know all you can about where and how it was grown, how and where it was processed, and how and where it was produced. You need to get good answers to all these questions and trust your supplier – just like everything else you sell in your pharmacy.

Consumer interest in CBD has skyrocketed, but confusion and skepticism remain high. Patients want guidance they can trust. That’s where independent pharmacies shine. With your credibility and patient relationships, you’re in the ideal position to educate and serve a market hungry for natural alternatives.

By offering CBD, you’re not just selling a product—you’re solving problems for your patients: relief from anxiety, pain, inflammation, sleep issues, and more. When done right, CBD can be a powerful tool in your wellness toolkit.

Carrying CBD from a reputable source like Farmer & Chemist offers your pharmacy a profitable, turnkey revenue stream. Our products are pharmacist-developed and lab-tested for safety, consistency, and efficacy. That means you can feel confident recommending them, and your customers will come back for more.

• Attract New Customers: People actively search for trusted CBD options. When they find it at your pharmacy, they’re likely to become loyal customers for prescriptions, OTC needs, and more.
• Increase Basket Size: CBD products often complement traditional medications and supplements, increasing the average transaction value.
• Strengthen Community Loyalty: Offering premium, pharmacist-backed wellness products sets you apart from big box stores and online-only retailers.
• Boost Your Bottom Line: Profit margins on Farmer & Chemist products exceed brand and generic prescription reimbursement.

We’re more than a CBD supplier; we’re your partner in wellness. From staff training and in-store displays to marketing support and patient education, we equip you with everything you need to launch a successful CBD program. Our transparent sourcing and third-party testing mean peace of mind for you and your patients.

Strong independent pharmacies build stronger communities. By adding CBD to your shelves, you’re not just boosting your bottom line; you’re offering your patients another way to feel better, naturally.

Join the growing number of IPC members who embrace CBD as a key part of their business. Reach out to Farmer & Chemist to learn how we can help your pharmacy grow through trusted, effective CBD solutions.

CBD isn’t just a business opportunity—it’s a way to serve patients who are actively looking for safe, natural solutions. With Farmer & Chemist, you gain a partner that respects your clinical expertise and helps you build a profitable wellness program.

To learn more visit www.FarmerAndChemist.com or contact our support team at info@farmerandchemist.com.