Medical Marijuana for Seizures: What You Need to Know

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of the more than 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis that have been researched for their medicinal benefits. The diverse chemical makeup of cannabis plays a significant role in its effectiveness in treating various medical conditions, including seizures.

At Medicus Cannabus, board-certified physician James O. Hill II, DO, serves patients in and around Port St. Lucie and Lake City, Florida, and has seen first-hand the medicinal benefits that patients with health issues such as chronic pain and fibromyalgia experience. 

The benefits of medical cannabis extend to seizure control. Its anticonvulsant properties can help reduce seizures and boost quality of life. 

How cannabis controls seizures

Medical marijuana contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which interact with your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is crucial in regulating functions such as mood, appetite, and neuronal activity. 

While THC is psychoactive, CBD is shown to have consistent anticonvulsant effects. It stabilizes the brain's electrical activity, a crucial effect for people living with seizure disorders.

A groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that CBD significantly reduced seizure frequency in patients with Dravet syndrome, a severe epilepsy form. 

Previously, scientists were unaware of just how cannabis exerted its beneficial effects on seizure control. However, researchers at NYU Grossman School of Medicine conducted a recent study revealing that CBD blocks signals carried by a molecule known as lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI), which is present in neurons, and enhances nerve signals.

This study, published in the 2023 issue of the journal Neuron, also confirmed earlier research showing CBD inhibits LPI's ability to amplify nerve signals in the hippocampus, a key brain region involved in seizure activity.

Research supports medical marijuana’s effectiveness in seizure control

Clinical research, including studies supported by the Epilepsy Foundation, have found that CBD-rich cannabis can reduce seizure frequency by up to 50% in some patients.

A 2018 randomized clinical trial focusing on Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, another severe epilepsy form, found that patients treated with CBD oil experienced a substantial reduction in drop seizures. Even the pharmaceutical industry has taken notice of the benefits of medical marijuana for seizure control. The United States Food and Drug Administration approved a marijuana-derived medication made from CBD, to treat two serious forms of epilepsy. 

Exploring different forms of medical cannabis

There are various forms of medical cannabis and varying methods of administration. CBD oil is the most commonly used form for seizure management, but patients may also use capsules, edibles, or vaporizers. The administration method can affect how quickly and effectively the cannabinoids work.

CBD oil taken sublingually (under the tongue) is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, providing fast relief. Edibles, on the other hand, take longer to take effect because they must go through the digestive system first, but they offer longer-lasting effects. Dr. Hill works closely with each patient to determine which form is right for their needs. 

Additionally, medical cannabis can be used in adjunct to conventional seizure medication. 

The importance of dosing and monitoring

One of the most critical aspects of using medical cannabis for seizures is finding the right dosage. Underdosing may provide inadequate seizure control, while too much can lead to unwanted side effects. This makes it essential to work closely with a health care provider who specializes in medical cannabis. 

Dr. Hill can help you start with a low dose and gradually adjust it based on your response to the treatment.

Regular monitoring is also important. Keeping a journal of your symptoms, dosage, and any side effects can help Dr. Hill to make an informed adjustment to your treatment plan. 

A new frontier in seizure management

Your journey to better seizure management starts with understanding your options. At our osteopathic medicine practice, we’re committed to providing you with the information and support you need to make the best choices for your health. 

If you’re ready to explore medical cannabis as a treatment option for seizures, contact us at Medicus Cannabus today. Let’s partner to find a solution that works for you