Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people around the world, and many have found that existing medications are not always successful in providing relief. Recently, more and more attention has been given to the potential of CBD as a treatment option for epilepsy. This article will explore the evidence that exists for the use of CBD in treating epilepsy, and will discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with this therapeutic option. We will also look at the current research on CBD, and what the future may hold for this potentially promising therapeutic option.
Are there any potential side effects associated with using CBD to treat epilepsy?
Yes, there are potential side effects associated with using CBD to treat epilepsy. The most commonly reported side effects include drowsiness, diarrhea, change in appetite, and tiredness. Some people may also experience irritability, nausea, or changes in mood. It is important to consult a doctor before using CBD to treat epilepsy.
How is CBD administered to individuals with epilepsy?
CBD can be administered to individuals with epilepsy in a variety of ways, including oral capsules and oils, topicals, and inhalation. The most commonly used method is an oral solution, which is taken under the tongue. Some individuals may also benefit from using CBD-infused topical creams or transdermal patches. Inhalation of CBD vapor is another method of administration that some people with epilepsy find helpful.
What are the benefits of using CBD to treat epilepsy?
CBD has been found to be beneficial in treating epilepsy due to its anti-seizure properties. It has been shown to reduce seizure activity and frequency in some epileptic patients, while also providing relief from other symptoms such as anxiety and depression. CBD may also help protect against further damage to the brain caused by epilepsy. Additionally, CBD is generally well tolerated and has fewer side effects than many of the conventional anti-epileptic drugs.
Is there any evidence that CBD is more effective than traditional epilepsy medications?
At this time, there is not enough scientific evidence to conclusively say that CBD is more effective than traditional epilepsy medications. However, there have been some studies that suggest that CBD may be beneficial for reducing seizure frequency and severity in people with epilepsy.
Are there any long-term effects associated with CBD use to treat epilepsy?
Yes, there are long-term effects associated with CBD use to treat epilepsy. One of the most common long-term effects of CBD use for epilepsy is an improvement in seizure control and quality of life. Other long-term effects of CBD use for epilepsy may include improved cognition, improved behavior, reduced anxiety, and a decrease in inflammation.
While not everyone with epilepsy should or would consider medical cannabis or cannabidiol CBD as a treatment option, some people living with uncontrolled seizures have reported beneficial effects and reduced seizure activity when using medical cannabis, especially strains rich in CBD. Further research is needed on the effects of medical cannabis on epilepsy, but when recommended by a treating physician, medical cannabis may be the best alternative for some individuals living with drug-resistant epilepsy and uncontrolled seizures. Access to medical cannabis will support increased research efforts and allow individuals who have failed to gain seizure control an option for treatment. The Epilepsy Foundation is committed to supporting physician-directed care, and to exploring and advocating for all potential treatment options for epilepsy , including cannabidiol CBD oil and medical cannabis. We support safe, legal access to medical cannabis and CBD if a patient and their health care team feel that the potential benefits of medical cannabis or CBD for uncontrolled epilepsy outweigh the risks. We also support breaking down barriers to research to better understand the potential therapeutic benefits and harms of cannabis. The Epilepsy Foundation does not have a policy position on adult use recreational cannabis programs however, under these laws, individuals and their physicians are able to work together to access cannabis to control seizures when medically appropriate. As of November , 48 states and the District of Columbia have legalized either the recreational or medical use of cannabis on the local level. Under federal law, cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance, and illegal to use, buy, sell, or possess. The restrictive Schedule I status also creates a significant barrier to conducting medical research on the benefits or harms of cannabis as a treatment option for epilepsy and seizures as well as other complex, chronic conditions. During the November elections, Arizona, New Jersey, South Dakota, and Montana residents approved ballot measures to allow for the adult recreational use of cannabis. Mississippi and South Dakota residents approved ballot measures to allow for the medical use of cannabis as well. The Arizona law will take effect on November 30, when election results are certified, and public sale of cannabis could begin as soon as March On February 2, , Mississippi became the 37th state to adopt medical cannabis laws when Governor Tate Reeves signed SB into law. Reviewed By Epilepsy Foundation Advocacy. Epilepsy centers provide you with a team of specialists to help you diagnose your epilepsy and explore treatment options. Find in-depth information on anti-seizure medications so you know what to ask your doctor. Download our seizure tracking app, print out seizure action plans, or explore other educational materials. Stay up to date with the latest epilepsy news and stories from the community. Alcohol as a Seizure Trigger. Absence Seizures. Childhood Absence Epilepsy. Autoimmune Epilepsy Ramussens Syndrome. Genetic Testing for Epilepsy. Mitochondrial Disorders. Focal Cortical Dysplasia. Evaluation of Your Medical History. EEG Procedure. Computer Tomography. Your Role in Epilepsy Treatment. When to Treat Seizures With Medicine. Treating Refractory Epilepsy. Deep Brain Stimulation. Ketogenic Diet. Nasal Rescue Medicines. Herbal Therapies. Mood and Behavior Seizure Medications and Mood. Seizure Clusters. Sleep and Seizure Medication. Seizure Observation. The Importance of Quality Care. S on Epilepsy. Schools and Seizure Preparedness. Safety at Work. General First Aid for Seizures. First Aid for Atonic and Tonic Seizures. Babysitters Guide to First Aid. Rights to Having a Service Animal. Basic Epilepsy Exercise Program. Nutrition and Seizure Control. Preparing for Pregnancy. Healthcare Coverage. About the Jeanne Carpenter Fund. Financial Planning for a Child. Managing Medications while Traveling. Choosing a Summer Camp. Driving Laws. Kids Diagnosing Seizures in Children. Diagnosis of Seizures in Newborns. Choosing a College. Explaining Epilepsy to Friends and Family. Board of Directors. Adriana Bermeo-Ovalle MD. Seizure Training for School Nurses. About Research and Funding at Epilepsy Foundation. Find Your Local Epilepsy Foundation. Fundraising Lemonade for Livy. Epilepsy Awareness Around the World. Enter your keywords Optional. Use my location for local resources. Main Navigation Sidebar Navigate. Learn More Get Involved in Advocacy. Position The Epilepsy Foundation is committed to supporting physician-directed care, and to exploring and advocating for all potential treatment options for epilepsy , including cannabidiol CBD oil and medical cannabis. Status As of November , 48 states and the District of Columbia have legalized either the recreational or medical use of cannabis on the local level. Next Become an Epilepsy Advocate.