The use of cannabis to treat seizures is becoming an increasingly popular area of research. With the passing of more laws allowing for the use of cannabis for medical purposes, the amount of research being conducted on this topic has expanded significantly. This article will look into the current studies being done on the use of cannabis to treat seizures and the potential benefits that this could provide for those suffering from seizure disorders. We will also explore the potential risks associated with using cannabis for this purpose and the current legal situation surrounding its use. Finally, we will look at the ways in which cannabis could potentially be used to treat seizures in the future.
How does the dosage of cannabis for seizures vary from person to person?
The dosage of cannabis for seizures varies significantly from person to person. Factors such as age, weight, concentration of cannabis, and severity of seizures can all influence the dosage. A doctor or healthcare professional should be consulted to determine the best dosage for an individual.
What research has been done to study the effects of cannabis on seizures?
A growing body of research has been conducted to assess the effects of cannabis on seizures. Studies have found that the endocannabinoid system may play a role in controlling seizure activity and that cannabis compounds like CBD may be effective in reducing seizure frequency and severity. In addition, emerging evidence suggests that the combination of CBD and THC may be more effective in reducing seizure activity than either compound alone.
What types of cannabis products are recommended for treating seizures?
Cannabis-based products that are recommended for treating seizures include CBD oil, tinctures, and edibles. CBD oil is the most popular form of cannabis for seizures, as it is non-psychoactive and has been found to reduce seizures in some people. Tinctures and edibles are also effective, but are not as widely used. Additionally, there are a few other products, including topicals and capsules, that may be beneficial for some people.
Are there any safety concerns to consider when using cannabis for seizures?
Yes, there are safety concerns to consider when using cannabis for seizures. Cannabis has the potential to interact with other medications and can affect the body’s ability to metabolize certain drugs. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any cannabis-based products, especially when dealing with a seizure disorder. Additionally, cannabis may cause side effects such as anxiety, confusion, dizziness, and impaired coordination, which can increase the risk of injury. Finally, cannabis may not be safe for people with certain medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, kidney and liver conditions, or mental health disorders.
Are there any side effects of using cannabis for seizures?
Yes, there are potential side effects of using cannabis for seizures. Common side effects can include confusion, sleepiness, dizziness, changes in appetite, and dry mouth. In some cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as depression, anxiety, changes in heart rate, low blood pressure, and increased risk of psychosis. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.
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.