Medical Cannabis Against Epilepsy

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis for Epilepsy

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine uncovered a connection between epileptic seizures and the release of a substance similar to cannabis’ psychoactive component in 2021. This substance, called 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), has been found to dampen seizure intensity. However, the rapid breakdown of 2-AG after its release triggers a series of biochemical reactions that lead to blood vessel constriction in the brain. This constriction results in the disorientation and amnesia commonly experienced after a seizure. These new insights could provide valuable guidance in the development of drugs that not only reduce the strength of seizures but also minimize their aftereffects. By targeting the regulation of 2-AG and its breakdown, researchers hope to develop more effective treatments for epilepsy.

In a meta-analysis published in Epilepsia in 2020, it was found that cannabidiol (CBD) enhanced the effectiveness of clobazam (Onfi), a benzodiazepine used as an additional treatment for seizures in individuals with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This indicates that CBD may have a beneficial impact when combined with conventional medications for seizure control in both children and adults. A study published in Epilepsy & Behavior in 2018 examined the effects of Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication, on different types of epilepsy. The study demonstrated that Epidiolex significantly reduced the frequency of seizures in individuals with CDKL5 deficiency disorder, Aicardi syndrome, Doose syndrome, and dup15q syndrome. On average, patients experienced a reduction from 59 seizures per month to 22 seizures per month, and this improvement persisted throughout the 48-week duration of the study. During clinical trials of Epidiolex, some side effects were observed, including fatigue, nausea, and diarrhoea. It's worth noting that elevated liver enzymes were also reported, likely due to the liver's breakdown of CBD. As a result, patients taking Epidiolex or other medical cannabis products should have their liver enzymes monitored to ensure safety and appropriate dosage adjustments if necessary.

Does cannabis for epilepsy have side effects?

Key takeaways

• Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, has shown promise in reducing seizure frequency and severity in certain types of epilepsy. Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication, has been approved for the treatment of specific forms of epilepsy by the FDA.

• CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, potentially modulating neuronal excitability and reducing inflammation, which may contribute to its anticonvulsant effects.

• Recent research from Stanford University School of Medicine suggests a connection between epileptic seizures and the release of a substance similar to cannabis' psychoactive component. This substance, called 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), can dampen seizure intensity but also triggers biochemical reactions leading to blood vessel constriction and post-seizure symptoms.

Please note: while medical cannabis, particularly CBD, has shown promise in reducing seizures and improving seizure control in certain types of epilepsy, further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy, optimal dosing, long-term effects, and its potential as a treatment option for a wider range of epilepsy conditions.