Evaluating the Efficacy of Cannabinoids in Epilepsy: A Critical Examination of Hard Evidence

Abstract

Epilepsy, a prevalent neurological disorder, affects one-third of individuals with seizures resistant to standard antiepileptic drugs. Cannabis sativa, a plant that is reportedly used for seizure treatment, contains non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) and psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Although anecdotal accounts point to favorable results, there are insufficient reliable human data. This research examines the pharmacological basis of cannabis sativa, its anti-seizure benefits, centered around the effects of THC and CBD. This also covers the safety profile of cannabis, answering issues with safe usage and negative effects.Methodologically, clinical trials and systematic reviews from databases were examined. Since an imbalance in neural impulses causes epilepsy, treating it can be difficult. Due to the drawbacks of traditional antiepileptic medications, there is interest in complementary therapies like cannabis-based medicine. Epilepsy results from an imbalance in neuronal impulses, making its treatment challenging. Conventional antiepileptic drugs have limitations, leading to interest in alternative treatments, including cannabis-based therapies. CBD interacts with adenosine, TRPV1 receptors, and GPR55 receptors, potentially reducing seizures. Clinical evidence supports CBD's efficacy in managing seizures, especially in Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. THC, the psychoactive component, has analgesic effects. The review underscores the importance of thorough studies to establish cannabinoids, particularly CBD, as safe and effective options for epilepsy treatment, acknowledging their potential to revolutionize seizure control and improve patients' quality of life.