CBD shows promise in treating epilepsy in the Asian population

A recently published Japanese study has again shown the potential of CBD in epilepsy. This is the first study of its kind conducted in the Asian population, confirming the usefulness of CBD-based medicines to treat severe forms of epilepsy.

Researchers administered questionnaires to 38 patients with intractable forms of epilepsy who were taking CBD medication. Participants answered questions about their demographics, medical history, diagnosis and type of seizure, CBD use, and adverse events associated with CBD use.

They also reported changes observed after taking CBD, such as: B. Seizure frequency and intensity, effects on sleep, need and dosage of additional anti-seizure medications, and quality of life. A total of 28 patients answered the questionnaire.

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Promising results for the use of CBD in epilepsy

The mean intake for CBD was 12.0 mg/kg/day. Nine patients experienced some side effects, but they were mild and did not lead to discontinuation of CBD treatment. Fifteen patients (over 50%) experienced a decrease in seizure frequency, while two became seizure free while taking CBD. No correlation has been observed between the diagnosis or type of seizure and the effectiveness of CBD treatment. The researchers therefore concluded that:

According to researchers, “CBD may be an effective option for Asian patients with refractory epilepsy, regardless of diagnosis or seizure type.”

Here are a few things to keep in mind about intractable epilepsy and using CBD as a remedy.

What is intractable epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a brain disorder associated with frequent seizures, which occur when damaged neurons (brain cells) make abnormal electrical signals. This usually causes severe and uncontrollable muscle spasms that can lead to unconsciousness. Epileptic seizures are usually treated with antiepileptic drugs, including sodium valproate, lamotrigine, and carbamazepine.

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Unfortunately, these drugs cause serious side effects when taken for long periods of time. As may be required in epilepsy patients. About 20% of epilepsies do not respond to anti-epilepsy drugs and are therefore referred to as refractory or intractable forms.

FDA approves Epidiolex

In 2018, a drug called Epidiolex was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat severe forms of drug-resistant epilepsy, specifically Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Developed and patented by GW Pharmaceuticals, this drug is approved for the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and seizures associated with tuberous sclerosis complex.

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CBD for Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome

Lennox-Gastaut is a severe form of epilepsy that usually affects less than 5% of children. Some children with this form of epilepsy experience up to 300 seizures in a day. Clinical studies have shown the safety and effectiveness of CBD in Lennox-Gastaut, where fall seizures were reduced by 48% to 71%, while overall seizures were reduced by 48% to 68%.

CBD for Dravet Syndrome

Dravets syndrome is a very rare type of intractable epilepsy that has been linked to a genetic mutation (SCN1A mutation). A 2017 study demonstrated the suitability of CBD in treating seizures associated with Dravet syndrome.

Does CBD Cause Any Side Effects for Seizures?

A majority of people, including children, are able to tolerate CBD quite well. When side effects are observed, they are usually mild and do not require stopping CBD treatment. These include:

  • GI symptoms
  • sleepiness
  • Diarrhea
  • fatigue
  • Poor appetite
  • Low blood pressure

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What is the right dosage of CBD for epilepsy?

Clinical studies indicate that a dosage of 5-6 mg/kg/day is effective in treating severe seizures in children. However, a doctor may decide to adjust the dosage accordingly depending on the patient’s physiological characteristics, the severity of the seizures and the response to treatment. The recommended dosage of Epidiolex is 5 mg/kg/day or 2.5 mg/kg twice a day.

Does CBD interact with epilepsy medications?

Yes, CBD interacts with some epilepsy medications, including sodium valproate and clobazam. Before starting medication with CBD, it is advisable to consult your pharmacist and let him advise you on the route that is most suitable for you.

This article originally appeared on MyCannabis.com and has been republished with permission.

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