Is CBD an Effective Treatment for Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which nerve cell activity in the brain gets disturbed, causing seizures (the primary symptom of Epilepsy).
During a seizure episode, the patient experiences abnormal behavior, sensations, and even sometimes loss of consciousness.
While the majority of epilepsy cases are treated by over-the-counter medications and surgery, many patients don’t find relief in these conventional forms of treatment.
Hence, they are seeking natural ways to get quick relief. Out of prominent natural treatment options for Epilepsy, CBD or Cannabidiol is gaining tremendous popularity. It’s a cannabis compound known for its therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief and anxiety relief, and several studies suggest it may be helpful in treating certain types of seizures.
In this article, we will discuss CBD and how it works to treat Epilepsy.
How Does CBD Work for Seizures?
Although it isn’t clearly known how CBD might help reduce seizures, multiple studies have shown the active role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS system).
The ECS is a system in our body that consists of a vast network of chemical signals and receptors throughout the body. These receptors regulate the multiple functions of your body, including emotions, appetite, pain, and immune system response.
Now, CBD is thought to enhance these functions by interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors (GPR55 and TRPV1 receptors).
Even the FDA has acknowledged the effectiveness of CBD as only a single CBD-infused medication, named ‘Epidiolex,’ is legalized for medical use. Epidiolex is used to treat two rare forms of childhood epilepsy – Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes.
How Can I Take CBD for Seizures?
Now, what are the ways to intake CBD for effective seizure relief? There are many. Smoking and vaping have been the most traditional and popular forms of taking CBD. Over the years, the demand for cannabis edibles has skyrocketed. Thanks to its delicious taste and convenient option. And the good thing is one can consider buying weed online as there are a lot of trusted cannabis dispensaries today. From CBD oils, edibles, capsules to topicals, there are a myriad of options available.
CBD for Epilepsy: What Does Research Say?
In a study conducted on patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, the patients were given 20 mg per kg of Epidiolex every day with placebo. After a few hours, it was found that patients who took Epidiolex experienced 44 percent fewer episodes of seizures.
On the flip side, patients who took a placebo experienced 22 percent fewer seizures.
Researchers have also found out that CBD might help reduce seizures caused by tuberous sclerosis complex. It’s a rare condition that causes the growth of noncancerous tumors in the brain. A similar study was conducted on patients with tuberous sclerosis complex, where the patients were given 25 mg/kg and 50/mg/kg of Epidiolex every day and a placebo. The improvement rate in seizures was 48% for the Epidiolex group and 24% for the placebo group.
Final Thoughts
The research on CBD for Epilepsy is still in its early stages. Hence, nothing much can be commented on with utmost certainty. If you’re planning to consider CBD to relieve any type of seizure, it’s advised to contact a doctor about your condition and get an idea of how the compound will help you.
