CBD rehab drinks are quickly becoming a go-to option for people who want to unwind or socialize without pouring a traditional alcoholic drink. These beverages typically combine hemp-derived CBD with flavored waters, teas, or functional ingredients and are marketed as “recovery,” “reset,” or “rehab” drinks. But are they actually a safe alternative to alcohol?

Researchers generally describe cannabidiol (CBD) as non-intoxicating and non-addictive, unlike ethanol, the psychoactive ingredient in alcoholic drinks. A World Health Organization review concluded that CBD is “generally well tolerated with a good safety profile” and found no evidence of abuse or dependence potential. That alone makes CBD rehab drinks fundamentally different from alcohol, which is well known to impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, and carries a high risk of dependence and long-term organ damage.

Emerging research suggests CBD may even help people who struggle with alcohol. A 2024 randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that a single 800 mg dose of CBD reduced alcohol cue-induced craving and activity in the brain’s reward center among people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). A separate study from 2025 reported significantly lower alcohol cravings in participants who received CBD compared with placebo. Several phase-2 clinical trials are now investigating whether CBD can reduce alcohol consumption and support treatment for AUD.

However, “safer than alcohol” does not mean risk-free. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize that CBD can cause side effects such as drowsiness, diarrhea, mood changes, and—most importantly—drug interactions and potential liver injury. A 2025 clinical study found that healthy adults taking CBD had higher rates of elevated liver enzymes compared with placebo, although no serious or life-threatening events occurred. These findings suggest that frequent, high-dose CBD drinks are not trivial for people with liver conditions or those taking other medications.

Quality and regulation are another concern. In the United States, the FDA has not approved CBD as an ingredient in conventional foods or beverages, and the agency continues to warn about mislabeled products, contamination, and unsupported health claims. Reviews of the market have highlighted that some “CBD” items contain psychoactive cannabinoids synthesized from CBD or more THC than advertised, which could lead to unintended intoxication or positive drug tests.

For adults who drink moderately and want to cut back, a carefully chosen CBD rehab drink can be a safer ritual than another glass of wine or cocktails—offering relaxation without intoxication, hangovers, or the same addiction risk. The safest options are hemp-derived CBD products with verified low THC content, supported by third-party lab tests, and consumed at modest doses. People who are pregnant, have liver disease, take prescription medications, or are being treated for alcohol use disorder should speak with a healthcare professional before swapping alcohol for CBD beverages.

Bottom line: CBD rehab drinks can be a safer alternative to alcohol for many adults, but they are not a risk-free wellness hack. Their benefits depend heavily on product quality, dose, individual health, and honest conversations with a medical professional—especially for anyone with a history of heavy drinking.