Medical cannabis is the whole plant Marijuana or chemicals in the plant are for medical purposes. The substances found in marijuana called cannabinoids act on the brain, including cells in the body. Cannabidiol and Tetrahydrocannabinol are the main two chemicals used in medicine.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that results in unprovoked seizures. Seizure is an immediate rush of abnormal electrical activities in the brain. Young children and older adults are at risk of developing seizures.
How it works
Cannabinoids bind to receptors in the brain whereby they are effective against pain. They prevent the transmission of pain signals through the transmitter function-blocking. Cannabinoids attach to more than pain receptors and appear to work on other signaling systems in the brain, and have protective and anti-inflammatory features.
Side effects
Despite researchers reaching a consensus on the effectiveness of marijuana in the treatment of epilepsy, it is essential to note that the side effects need to be well understood. It, however, has not yet uncovered whether cannabinoids can interact with other treatments.
Medical marijuana use for epilepsy affects memory, leading to missed doses of medications, which may translate to a return of seizures. In children, it can result in a reduction in cognitive abilities.
Marijuana is illegal in most countries. Hence all epileptic patients can access the drugs. Medical marijuana use for epilepsy is the last optional drug if the traditional medicines are not responding.
The most common side effects of medical marijuana use are; Drowsiness, diarrhea, altered liver function, weakness or lack of energy, general fatigue, poor sleep, insomnia, malaise, and decreased appetite.
Cannabinoid oil
Research suggests cannabinoid anti seizures effects come from reducing neuron excitability by acting on receptors. Cannabinoid oil is approved to treat two rare forms of epilepsy, namely Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet Syndromes. It is also approved to treat the genetic disorder tuberous sclerosis complex.
Cannabinoid oil potentially interacts with other medications to control seizures, making the medication more or less effective. Medical marijuana use for epilepsy should not replace other traditional drugs.
Medical Marijuana products can increase seizure frequency. Whenever you are dealing with seizures, it is necessary to consult your doctor before taking medical marijuana products.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana use for epilepsy is currently approved to treat seizures caused by two rare forms of epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis complex. Researchers’ studies show that medical marijuana can treat other types of epilepsy. Still, more research investigating the ability of marijuana to treat epilepsy is ongoing.