CBD and epilepsy
In the Cannabis sativa plant (commonly known as hemp or marijuana), there is an active compound called cannabidiol (CBD), which may be used for a wide range of therapeutic purposes. Currently, a specific form of CBD has been approved as a drug for the treatment of epilepsy in the US.
About 80 cannabinoid chemicals have been found in the Cannabis sativa plant. By far the most well-known active ingredient in cannabis is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Cannabis sativa plant variant hemp contains only trace amounts of the psychotropic chemical THC, while CBD is obtained from hemp. The effects of CBD on the brain’s chemicals seem to be unique from those of THC on the same molecules, according to preliminary research.
Epilepsy sufferers might take a prescription version of CBD as a treatment option (epilepsy). Although there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, CBD is also used to treat pain, dystonia (also known as tremors), Parkinson’s disease, Crohn’s disease, and a range of other conditions.
Cannabis legality in the US
The sale of hemp and hemp-derived products in the United States was made legal in 2018 thanks to new laws. The fact that hemp-derived CBD is allowed in certain places does not mean that it is legal elsewhere. Due to its status as a prescription drug, CBD cannot be legally incorporated into food or dietary supplements. CBD is exclusively present in cosmetic products. Although CBD products remain on the market, they are advertised as nutritional supplements and are not illegal in the United States. In certain circumstances, the amount of CBD in these products does not match the amount stated on the label.
Uses & Effectiveness
Likely Effective for
GW Pharmaceuticals’ Epidiolex has been authorized by the FDA to treat seizures caused by Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Seizures could benefit from different types of CBD, although this must be shown. For the time being, remain with the medication on prescription.
Other applications of CBD are being considered, but there isn’t enough evidence to indicate whether they will be beneficial.
Possibly Effective for
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) (MS). Pain, muscular tightness, and urine frequency in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) may be reduced by using a prescription-only nasal spray (Sativex, GW Pharmaceuticals) that contains both 9-delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol. Over 25 nations across the world utilize this product. When it comes to the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, cannabidiol seems to be ineffective on its own. MS patients may benefit from the use of a cannabinoid spray under the tongue for pain and muscular tightness, but not for symptoms like fatigue, bladder control issues or quality of life.
Side Effects
CBD may be safe to ingest in the right dosages when taken orally. Safe doses have been shown to last up to 13 weeks. A specialized prescription CBD medication (Epidiolex) has been utilized at greater dosages under the supervision of a healthcare physician.
Drowsiness, dizziness, and low blood pressure are all possible adverse effects of CBD. Epidiolex, a prescription version of CBD, has also been linked to liver damage in patients using high dosages.
Because of this, it’s not certain whether or not using CBD on the skin is safe or what the possible adverse effects are.
Special Precautions and Warnings
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is possible that using CBD might be harmful. The fetus or newborn may be harmed if CBD products are tainted with other potentially dangerous substances. Avoid putting yourself in harm’s way by not using it.
Epidiolex, a prescription CBD medication, may be safe for children in dosages up to 25 mg/kg daily if taken orally. At least one year of age is required to use this medicine for specific situations. If additional CBD products are safe for children, we don’t know yet.
Liver illness may need lower dosages of CBD for those with the condition.
People with Parkinson’s disease may have worsening muscular movement and tremors if they take large amounts of CBD, according to preliminary studies.
Keep updated in our blog for more information about CBD. Enjoy!