Introduction
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. While traditional medications can effectively control seizures in many people with epilepsy, some patients continue to experience seizures despite treatment. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of medical marijuana for the management of seizures in people with epilepsy. This paper will review the current evidence on the effects of marijuana on patients with epilepsy, including the potential benefits and risks.
Background
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that contains more than 100 different compounds called cannabinoids. The most well-known cannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), which is non-psychoactive. CBD has been found to have anti-seizure properties, which has led to interest in the use of marijuana for the treatment of epilepsy.
Effect of marijuana on patients with epilepsy Several studies have explored the effects of marijuana on patients with epilepsy. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2017 found that the use of a CBD-rich extract was associated with a significant reduction in the number of seizures in people with Dravet syndrome, a rare and severe form of epilepsy. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics in 2018 found that the use of CBD was associated with a significant reduction in the number of seizures in people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, another rare and severe form of epilepsy.
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Epilepsy Research in 2018 looked at the effectiveness of CBD for the treatment of epilepsy. The review included 17 studies and found that CBD was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the number of seizures.
However, it is important to note that these studies have been small and have not used a control group. Therefore, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of marijuana in the treatment of epilepsy.
Potential Risks
While marijuana may have potential benefits for patients with epilepsy, it is important to consider the potential risks. The use of marijuana can cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, and drowsiness. Additionally, marijuana may interact with other medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it. Long-term use of marijuana can also have negative effects on mental health, such as an increased risk of anxiety and depression.
Conclusion
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. While traditional medications can effectively control seizures in many people with epilepsy, some patients continue to experience seizures despite treatment. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of medical marijuana for the management of seizures in people with epilepsy. The current evidence suggests that marijuana, specifically CBD, may be effective in reducing seizures in some people with epilepsy, particularly those with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. However, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of marijuana in the treatment of epilepsy and to understand the potential risks. It's important to note that the use of medical marijuana should be under the supervision of a medical professional. Speak to an ARCANNABIS CLINIC doctor today to discuss your options, risk-free.