Medical cannabis has been increasingly investigated as a potential treatment option for epilepsy, a neurological disorder that affects approximately 50 million people worldwide (Kwan and Brodie, 2000). Epilepsy is characterized by recurring seizures and can be difficult to manage with current medication options, leading many patients to seek alternative treatments.

Clinical trials have investigated the efficacy and safety of medical cannabis for the treatment of epilepsy, with a focus on cannabidiol (CBD), one of the major cannabinoids found in cannabis. In 2017, the New England Journal of Medicine published a landmark trial of CBD for drug-resistant seizures in patients with Dravet Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that typically begins in infancy (Devinsky et al., 2017). The trial found that CBD significantly reduced the frequency of convulsive seizures compared to placebo, with 43% of patients in the CBD group experiencing a reduction in seizure frequency of 50% or more.

Another study published in the Journal of Epilepsy Research investigated the efficacy of CBD-enriched medical cannabis in patients with refractory epilepsy, meaning that their seizures did not respond to other treatments (Gaston et al., 2017). The study found that CBD-enriched medical cannabis significantly reduced seizure frequency in a majority of patients, with 89% experiencing a reduction of at least 50%.

While the results of these clinical trials are promising, there are still concerns about the safety of medical cannabis for the treatment of epilepsy. One study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry investigated the safety and tolerability of CBD in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy (Gloss and Vickrey, 2018). The study found that CBD was generally well-tolerated, but some patients experienced side effects such as somnolence (drowsiness), decreased appetite, and diarrhea.

Medical Marijuana and Epilepsy: An Overview of Its Use in Treatment-Resistant Cases

It is important to note that while CBD has shown promise in treating epilepsy, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks. Additionally, there are many different types of medical cannabis products available, and it is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to find the most appropriate treatment option for their individual needs.

In summary, clinical trials have demonstrated the potential efficacy of medical cannabis, specifically CBD, in treating seizures associated with epilepsy. However, further research is necessary to fully understand the safety and effectiveness of medical cannabis as a treatment for epilepsy, and to determine the most appropriate dosage and delivery methods for different patient populations.

References:

• Devinsky, O., Cross, J. H., Laux, L., Marsh, E., Miller, I., Nabbout, R., ... & Wright, S. (2017). Trial of Cannabidiol for Drug-Resistant Seizures in the Dravet Syndrome. New England Journal of Medicine, 376(21), 2011-2020.

• Gaston, T. E., Bebin, E. M., Cutter, G. R., Liu, Y., Szaflarski, J. P., & UAB CBD Program. (2017). Interactions between cannabidiol and commonly used antiepileptic drugs. Epilepsia, 58(9), 1586-1592.

• Gloss, D., & Vickrey, B. (2018). Cannabinoids for epilepsy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (3).

• Kwan, P., & Brodie, M. J. (2000). Early identification of refractory epilepsy. New England Journal of Medicine, 342(5), 314-319.

Research into cannabis-based treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is an emerging field, offering hope for families seeking alternative therapies. Clinical trials have explored the use of CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) to address core symptoms of ASD, such as anxiety, irritability, hyperactivity, and social withdrawal.

Clinical Evidence
One of the most notable studies, conducted in Israel, focused on children with severe ASD. The trial used a high-CBD, low-THC formulation and found significant improvements in behavioral issues, anxiety, and communication skills. Over 80% of parents reported a noticeable reduction in problem behaviors, including self-injury and aggression. Other trials have also demonstrated CBD's potential to promote calmness and reduce anxiety, enhancing the child's ability to engage socially.

How It Works
Cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in mood, behavior, and neurodevelopment. CBD's neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties may help regulate neurological processes, reducing irritability and improving emotional stability in children with ASD.

Risks and Considerations
While the potential benefits are promising, more long-term studies are needed. Possible side effects include fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and appetite changes. For this reason, parents should always consult a medical professional before beginning treatment.

At MOCA Health, we provide safe, TGA-compliant access to cannabis-based treatments for children with ASD.