Does CBD/THC Help With Epilepsy?

You may have seen one of the many viral videos that circulated the internet recently of a child who stops seizing shortly after being given medical cannabis. The video shows an amazing, almost instantaneous, result and it had many parents around the world wondering if marijuana could help their child with epilepsy. 

Though there hasn’t been many formal studies on the efficacy of cannabis in treating epileptic seizures, there have been many first-hand reports revealing positive results.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder linked with abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It often presents as sudden and recurring episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or seizures. Epilepsy can be caused by a number of different factors, therefore there is no umbrella cure for all types of epileptic episodes, but cannabis has had success in many different cases.

Is It Proven to Work?

In repeated clinical trials, anecdotal reports and laboratory studies, cannabis (specifically CBD) has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties. Many saw a reduction in motor seizures and an increase in seizure-free days, which significantly increased their quality of life.

In a recent study of the drug Epidolex (a CBD derived drug), seizures decreased by 54% on average, even in patients who were previously unresponsive to all other treatments. For children with rare forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet Syndrome, cannabis is the most effective treatment currently available.

Many labs face hurdles when it comes to researching cannabis products due to the legalities in certain countries, so there is still much to learn about epilepsy and cannabis, but the results so far are extremely promising.

THC vs. CBD

Most tests have been conducted with CBD and have had great results. But many people who have used medical marijuana (with THC) to manage seizures have indicated that it worked better than CBD on its own. Because of its psychotropic effects, research on epilepsy and THC have been minimal thus far. Much of the evidence has been focused on CBD, but new research indicates that combination CBD/THC products may be even more effective at controlling seizures. Of course, this is dependent on the type of epilepsy that is presenting and will vary from person to person.

Prescription drugs, like Epidolex, are already on the market and have proven to have decrease symptoms, but as more research is released on THC based medication, we may see an increase in combination prescriptions in the future.

Could Cannabis Work for My Child?

Since each case of epilepsy is so unique, you should always consult your healthcare professional before changing your medications. Most of the time, CBD is prescribed alongside other medications and you should always be aware of potential side effects.

There’s also the issue of legality. Some countries have more allowances than others when it comes to the purchase and use of cannabis products. Consult your local laws before purchasing. 

CBD and THC have had amazing results for people suffering from epilepsy. It’s changed lives for many children around the world who went from experiencing seizures every day to having entire days completely seizure-free. If you or someone you love experiences seizures, cannabis may be worth looking into to increase their quality of life.