CBD and drug resistant epilepsy: An investigation into the potential of CBD as a treatment for drug resistant epilepsy

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, often shortened to CBD, is one of many cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Although it comes from cannabis, CBD doesn't have the psychoactive effects often associated with the plant - that is, it won't get you "high."

What CBD does is interact with the endocannabinoid system in our body, which can affect a variety of physiological processes, such as pain perception, mood, and even seizures.

The connection between CBD and epilepsy

Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder that affects an estimated 50 million people worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent, unpredictable epileptic seizures, which vary in severity and type. These attacks can lead to physical harm, cognitive impairment and significantly affect the quality of life of the affected person.

Although there are several antiepileptic medications (AEDs) available that are designed to reduce the frequency and severity of these seizures, about one-third of people with epilepsy do not respond well to these treatments. This group of people is diagnosed with what is known as drug-resistant or refractory epilepsy. This means that despite adequate and consistent treatment with two or more AEDs, seizures continue.

We must emphasize that drug resistance in epilepsy is a major problem, as it limits treatment options and often leads to a reduced quality of life. Therefore, there is a continuous search for new and effective treatments.

And that brings us to cannabidiol, or CBD. CBD is one of many cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another well-known cannabinoid, CBD has no psychoactive effects, meaning it doesn't cause a "high." Instead, CBD has a wide range of potential therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuroprotective, and anticonvulsant properties.

It is the latter, the anticonvulsant properties of CBD, that are of particular interest in the context of epilepsy. Researchers have found that CBD may be able to reduce seizure frequency in people with certain forms of drug-resistant epilepsy. A number of recent studies and clinical trials have shown this potential of CBD.

For example, in a 2017 study conducted by Orrin Devinsky and colleagues, 120 children and young adults with Dravet syndrome, a form of epilepsy that is often resistant to medication, were treated with CBD. The results showed that the group receiving CBD had a greater reduction in seizure frequency compared to the placebo group.

In another study conducted by the University of Alabama, 132 patients with drug-resistant epilepsy were given CBD in addition to their existing AED regimen. After 12 weeks of treatment, 51% of patients reported a reduction in seizure frequency.

It is important to note that these studies are preliminary results. While promising, there are still many questions about how and why CBD works in reducing epileptic seizures, and how best to integrate it into existing treatment protocols.

The mechanism of CBD: How does it work?

Despite the positive results, the precise mechanism by which CBD reduces epileptic seizures is not yet fully understood. CBD interacts with many different receptors in the body, including those in the endocannabinoid system, a system in the body involved in regulating various bodily functions, including pain, mood, sleep, and immune response.

One theory suggests that CBD may reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures by increasing the activity of the endocannabinoid receptors, reducing the excessive neuronal activity that causes epileptic seizures. In addition, CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the neuroinflammation associated with epilepsy.

In addition, CBD has been shown to affect the activity of sodium and calcium channels in neuronal cells, which play a role in the onset of epileptic seizures. However, further studies are needed to fully understand these mechanisms.

CBD as a treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy

The potential of cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy has received significant attention in the medical community. This is due to the growing corpus of scientific research and anecdotal accounts illustrating CBD's effectiveness in controlling seizures.

One of the most compelling evidence of CBD's potential comes from clinical studies. In a groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, CBD was found to significantly reduce seizure frequency in patients with Dravet syndrome, a rare form of epilepsy that is typically drug-resistant. The patients who took CBD experienced a median decrease of 38.9% in the frequency of their seizures.

Beyond clinical studies, there are numerous anecdotal accounts that support the effectiveness of CBD. Patients and caregivers around the world have shared their stories of how CBD has reduced the frequency and intensity of seizures, and in some cases, eliminated them completely.

A particularly touching story is that of a little girl named Charlotte Figi. Charlotte suffered from Dravet syndrome and had up to 300 grand mal seizures a week. After starting a regimen of CBD, her attacks reduced to just two or three a month. Her story has helped raise awareness of CBD's potential as a treatment for epilepsy and has led to more research in this area.

In addition, studies suggest that CBD can not only reduce the frequency of attacks, but also their severity. This means that even if attacks do occur, they may be less severe. A study published in the Journal of Epilepsy Research found that in addition to reducing seizure frequency, CBD also reduced seizure severity in children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, another form of severe epilepsy.

This ability of CBD to reduce both the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures makes it a promising therapeutic agent for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. It offers hope to those who have had little or no benefit from traditional medicines and complementary treatments.

The mechanism of action of CBD in the treatment of epilepsy

The exact mechanism by which cannabidiol (CBD) affects epileptic seizures remains a subject of intense research to date. While the full details are not yet fully understood, scientists have developed several theories based on existing research.

One of these theories suggests that CBD may decrease the activity of certain neurons in the brain. CBD is a type of cannabinoid, a group of chemicals that occur naturally in the human body and cannabis plants. These cannabinoids interact with specific receptors, known as cannabinoid receptors, located throughout the body, including the brain.

These receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell communication network that plays a key role in regulating various physiological processes, including the activity of neurons. According to a study in the Journal of Epilepsy Research, CBD may be able to calm the overactive neurons that cause epileptic seizures by binding to these cannabinoid receptors, which may reduce their activity.

Another theory about how CBD works in treating epilepsy is related to its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation in the brain has been linked to epilepsy. Research has shown that CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory effects. It may be able to reduce neuroinflammation by reducing levels of inflammatory cytokines, chemicals that promote the inflammatory response.

In addition, CBD also acts as a powerful antioxidant, which can protect brain cells from free radical damage, which may also play a role in epilepsy. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology suggests that CBD's antioxidant properties may help reduce oxidative stress in the brain, which may reduce the likelihood of seizures.

It is also important to note that CBD has a complex interaction with several other systems in the brain. It appears to affect levels of certain neurotransmitters, as well as the way various ions are transported across neuronal cell membranes. This may contribute to its anticonvulsant effects.

While these theories are promising, much more research is needed to fully understand how CBD works in the treatment of epilepsy. It is a complex issue that will likely continue to evolve with further research and experimentation.

It is also crucial to recognize that CBD does not work the same way for everyone. The human body and its endocannabinoid system are extremely complex, and everyone's body chemistry is unique. What works for one may not work for another. In addition, the effectiveness of CBD can vary depending on the type of epilepsy and the specific symptoms of each patient.

The use of CBD for epilepsy

Using CBD to treat epilepsy can be a promising option, but it's important to understand how to use CBD safely and effectively. The dose of CBD needed to control epileptic seizures can vary greatly between individuals. Various factors, including body weight, severity and type of epilepsy, individual body chemistry, and use of other medications, can all influence the optimal dosage of CBD.

While there is no standard dose for CBD in epilepsy, clinical studies have used varying doses, typically between 5-20 mg/kg per day. However, for some forms of severe epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, the dose may be higher, up to 20-50 mg/kg per day. However, it is essential to remember that high doses of CBD can also increase the risk of side effects.

It is also important to emphasize that CBD does not work for everyone and is not intended to replace traditional antiepileptic drugs without consulting a health care professional. CBD can interact with certain medications, including some anticonvulsants, and this can affect the effectiveness of these medications and possibly increase the risk of side effects.

Plus, not all CBD products are created equal. The quality and purity of CBD products can vary widely, and some may contain contaminants that can be harmful. That's why it's essential to choose CBD products from reputable manufacturers who conduct independent lab testing to ensure the quality and purity of their products.

Before you start taking CBD for epilepsy, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional. They can help you determine if CBD is a good choice for you based on your specific health condition, symptoms, and use of other medications. They can also guide you in finding the right dosage and safely integrating CBD into your existing treatment plan.

It is also advisable to keep a close track of how your body responds to CBD, including any changes in seizure frequency and severity, and any side effects. This can provide valuable information that can help adjust dosage and maximize the benefits of CBD.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties, CBD offers a new hope for people with epilepsy who do not respond to traditional medicines. With continued research and a better understanding of how CBD works, the potential of this natural compound can be further exploited.

In addition to the conversations with the doctor, it is also crucial to have an open dialogue with pharmacists or other health professionals who are familiar with CBD. These professionals can provide additional insights and guidance on using CBD, including potential interactions with other drugs and the best ways to take CBD.

There are several forms of CBD available, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topical products. Each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice may depend on several factors, such as personal preference, lifestyle, and specific health needs. For example, CBD oil can be placed under the tongue for rapid absorption, while capsules can be useful for those who prefer a more discreet option.

It is also important to be patient when starting to use CBD. It may take some time for the full effects of CBD to be felt. It may be necessary to gradually adjust the dosage over a period of weeks or months to find the optimal level.

Although CBD is generally well tolerated, it can cause side effects in some people, such as fatigue, diarrhea, changes in appetite and weight, and interactions with other medications. It is essential to pay attention to these potential side effects and to discuss any concerns with a doctor or health care professional.

CBD Products: Which Are The Best?

There are many different types of CBD products on the market, including oils, capsules, and even edibles. The choice of the type of CBD product depends on your personal preferences and needs.

At FeelKiff, we have a wide variety of CBD products, including our popular flavored CBD oils. Our three most popular flavors are "Watermelon", "Berry Gelato" and "Bubble Gum". These products are a great way to take in CBD, especially if you don't like the natural taste of CBD.

The power of terpenes: Enhanced effects of CBD

In addition to our flavorful CBD oils, we also offer effect blends that are CBD oils enriched with terpenes. Terpenes are natural compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the unique smells and flavors of different cannabis strains, but they also have their own therapeutic properties.

For example, some of our CBD oils are enriched with terpenes that promote sleep quality. These products, which you can find on our effects blends page , can be a great addition to your nighttime routine if you're struggling to sleep.

We also offer CBD oils enriched with terpenes that promote faster recovery. These products can be particularly helpful if you are recovering from an intense workout or if you simply want to improve your overall well-being. You can also find them on our effects blends page .

Full Spectrum CBD Products

In addition to our CBD oils with flavor and effect blends, we also have full spectrum CBD products. Full spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids that occur naturally in the cannabis plant, including CBD, but also others like CBC, CBG, and yes, even a little bit of THC. However, this does not mean that full spectrum CBD will get you high. The amount of THC in full spectrum CBD is so low that it has no psychoactive effects.

The idea behind full spectrum CBD is that the various cannabinoids and terpenes can work together in what is known as the "entourage effect". This means they can be more effective together than when used on their own. You can find our full spectrum products on our full spectrum page .