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    CBD in Treating Epilepsy: Benefits, Dosage, and Insights

    Author: Ondrej Stovicek

    Overview

    The use of cannabidiol (CBD) in treating epilepsy is becoming an increasingly researched topic in the field of medicine. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact patients' quality of life. CBD has shown promise in reducing the frequency and intensity of epileptic seizures in some patients, particularly those who do not receive satisfactory relief from conventional treatments. Research suggests that CBD may have anticonvulsant effects and contribute to regulating brain electrical activity. Learn how to use CBD in the treatment of epilepsy and what experiences we have gathered with it.

    How CBD Works Against Epilepsy

    CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that acts within the endocannabinoid system, influencing the human body. The mechanisms of action observed in the treatment of epilepsy include:

    • Anticonvulsant Effects: CBD has properties that help counteract seizures.
    • Neuroprotective Benefits: CBD provides protective effects on the nervous system.
    • GABA Regulation: CBD affects levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are linked to seizures. It reduces the reabsorption of GABA, thereby increasing its levels in the brain.
    • Ion Channel Stabilization: CBD stabilizes the function of ion channels in the body, similar to some antiepileptic drugs. Proper functioning of these channels is crucial for tissue and organ function.
    • Neuronal Communication: CBD alters the way neurons communicate and absorb other substances, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of other epilepsy medications.

    CBD for Animals with Epilepsy

    CBD is also beneficial in managing epilepsy in animals.

    Epidiolex and Epilepsy

    Did you know there is a CBD-based medication for epilepsy approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)? It is called Epidiolex.

    • Epidiolex: This prescription drug is used to treat two rare forms of epilepsy in children under 2 years old: Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.

    How to Dose CBD for Epilepsy

    Recommended daily dosing is based on experiences collected from our cannabis counseling service:

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    • Indeterminate Seizure Timing: If seizures occur at unpredictable times or sporadically, start with 1 drop of 10% CBD oil twice daily. For children, start with 5% CBD oil and gradually increase the dosage.
    • Specific Seizure Timing: If seizures occur at specific times, administer CBD approximately one hour before these times. For morning seizures, split the dose into morning and noon; for afternoon seizures, take it after lunch and in the evening.
    • Night Seizures: If seizures occur mainly at night, take 10% CBD oil before bedtime and upon waking.
    • Emergency Situations: If a seizure occurs during the day, apply the entire daily dose between the cheek and gum and massage gently.

    How Long Does It Take for CBD to Show Effects?

    The time it takes for CBD to show effects in treating epilepsy can vary depending on several factors:

    • Type of Epilepsy: Different types of epilepsy may require varying times for CBD to take effect. Some forms may respond more quickly to CBD than others.
    • Dosage: The effect of CBD can depend on the dosage. Some patients may need higher doses for therapeutic effects, while others may benefit from lower doses.
    • Individual Variability: Each person’s unique biochemistry and genetic factors can affect how quickly they respond to CBD. Some people may notice effects quickly, while others may need more time.

    Generally, patients might start to see relief from seizures and other symptoms within a few days to weeks after starting CBD treatment. It is important to be patient and allow several days for the effects to become fully apparent.

    CBD vs. THC: Key Differences

    The fundamental difference between CBD and THC is psychoactivity. While THC is psychoactive and can worsen seizure symptoms, CBD is non-psychoactive and does not have this effect. Therefore, THC is not recommended for epilepsy treatment.

    Using CBD with Epilepsy Medications

    When using CBD alongside epilepsy medications, maintain a minimum 2-hour gap between antiepileptic drugs and CBD supplements to avoid interactions that could reduce the effectiveness of the antiepileptic medications.

    Differences in CBD Formulations

    There are differences in the effectiveness of various forms of CBD. We generally recommend using CBD in the form of drops for epilepsy because drops have a faster onset of action. They are absorbed more quickly through the mouth compared to capsules, which are absorbed through the digestive tract. Drops can also be used acutely during seizures.

    Studies on CBD and Epilepsy

    Several studies have investigated CBD’s effects on epilepsy:

    • Reduction in Seizures: Multiple studies have shown that CBD can reduce the number of seizures in patients with different forms of epilepsy, including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome. For example, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that CBD reduced seizure frequency in patients with LGS.
    • Improved Quality of Life: Some studies suggest that CBD use may improve the quality of life for epilepsy patients by reducing seizure frequency and/or improving other associated symptoms.
    • Safety and Tolerability: Most studies indicate that CBD is generally well-tolerated in patients with epilepsy. However, side effects such as fatigue, diarrhea, and appetite changes may occur. These effects can vary based on dosage and individual sensitivity.
    • Drug Interactions: There is evidence suggesting that CBD may interact with other medications used by epilepsy patients, potentially affecting their efficacy or safety.
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    Clinical Study of CBD for Epilepsy

    In the first phase of a clinical study, 3 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight was administered daily to 8 healthy volunteers for 30 days.

    • Placebo-Controlled Trial: Another group of 8 volunteers received identical capsules containing only glucose as a placebo. Weekly tests included neurological and physical examinations, urine and blood analyses, ECG, and EEG. In the second phase, 15 patients with generalized epileptic seizures were randomly assigned to receive 200-300 mg of CBD daily or a placebo for 4.5 months.

    Results showed that 4 out of 8 patients receiving CBD had no seizures during the study, and 3 experienced significant improvement. In the placebo group, 6 patients showed no change, and 1 patient experienced significant improvement.

    Side Effects of CBD for Epilepsy

    During clinical studies of Epidiolex, some participants experienced side effects, including:

    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Reduced appetite
    • Fatigue
    • Fever
    • Drowsiness

    If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to stop using CBD and consult a healthcare provider.

    Personal Experiences with CBD for Epilepsy

    CBD has shown significant potential in treating epilepsy, especially in severe cases where conventional medicine falls short.

    Here are some user reviews:

    • Anežka, CZ: "My son has epileptic seizures. Since he started using CBD, his seizures have dramatically decreased! Thank you so much!"

    • Barbora, Germany: "This is the story of my son Tomáš. He has epilepsy and developed psychogenic seizures as well. After I consulted a specialist clinic for epilepsy treatment, I decided to try CBD oil. The seizures miraculously disappeared for at least 6 to 8 weeks. We had to increase the dosage later, but it was like a miracle for us. Thank you!"

    • Marie: "I give CBD oil to my 15-year-old son, who has incurable epilepsy. Initially, he had seizures once a week. Since starting CBD oil, with 3 drops in the morning and 3 in the evening, he only had one seizure over the summer. We stopped the oil because he was often tired, and the seizures returned immediately. We restarted the oil because, despite the taste, it’s worth it compared to the dangerous seizures."

    • Lenka: "My partner is severely affected. His brother gives him CBD oil, and thanks to it, he has fewer epileptic seizures. The parents tried everything before, but unfortunately, traditional medicine made it worse. The drops have no negative or side effects. Thanks for the opportunity to use CBD oil."

    Overall, CBD appears to be a promising supportive therapy for epilepsy.

    For further information, consult healthcare professionals and consider exploring CBD as an adjunctive treatment option.