Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurrent, unprovoked seizures. Seizures are periods of abnormal brain activity that can cause convulsions, changes in behavior, and a loss of consciousness.
Marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in some people with epilepsy. The active ingredients in marijuana, known as cannabinoids, share many similarities with a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. Anticonvulsants are medications used to treat seizure disorders.
Does Marijuana help reduce seizures?
The exact mechanism by which marijuana reduces seizure activity is not fully understood. Cannabinoids are thought to interact with receptors in the brain known as CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are involved in a variety of neurological processes, including seizure activity. Studies have shown that activation of CB1 receptors can decrease seizure activity while activating CB2 receptors can increase it. It is thought that the balance between CB1 and CB2 receptor activation is what determines whether marijuana will decrease or increase seizure activity.
The answer is yes, marijuana can help to reduce seizures. As a matter of fact, Epidolex the only FDA-approved prescription Cannabidiol (CBD) was approved to treat patients 1+ years old and older. CBD is one of the many cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Side effects from marijuana use can include sleepiness, impaired coordination, slurred speech, dry mouth, and red eyes. In some people, marijuana can cause anxiety and paranoia. These side effects usually go away once the person stops using the drug. Some people who use medical marijuana to treat their seizures may also experience an increased appetite. This is known as the “munchies.”
It is essential to talk to your doctor about any potential side effects of treatment with medical marijuana. It is even more important to speak with a marijuana doctor that has experience with cannabis and seizures. If they think you will benefit they will approve you for a marijuana card. They will be able to help you weigh the risks and benefits of using this drug to treat your condition.
Marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in some people with epilepsy. The exact mechanism by which it works is not fully understood but is thought to be related to the interaction between cannabinoids and specific receptors in the brain.
Side effects from marijuana use are typically mild and go away once the person stops using the drug but can include sleepiness, impaired coordination, slurred speech, dry mouth, and red eyes. Some people may also experience anxiety or paranoia. Talk to your doctor about any potential side effects of treatment with medical marijuana before starting treatment.
