Back in 2013, there were a few reports that a chemical, Cannabidiol (CBD) managed to reduce the seizures of 6-years old girl. The thing to note is that these were at near-death levels and the oil reduced them almost to zero. And, naturally, this sent desperate patient on a serious quest for obtaining the treatment. Let’s first see what is cannabidiol and what are the benefits?
What is CBD Oil?
CBD refers to cannabidiol and that’s a substance which is found in cannabis. It is known for having a slight psychoactive effect but it is far away from the main compound, THC. In any case, CBD lacks the high which is generally associated with the regular marijuana high and it also doesn’t really have a greatly noticeable effect if used in isolation. However, when you combine it with THC, there is relaxing sensation which battles the paranoia or panic that you can sometimes experience if you are under the influence. The substance also has quite a few medical uses and benefits that are well worth noting.
Now, as per the majority of the estimates, the existing seizure drugs fail an approximation of one-third of the sufferers. This is either because they fail to stop the seizure or because the harmful side effects are way too severe. Yet, the National Academy of Sciences reported that there was not enough evidence to determine that cannabis oil, or CBD oil as it’s also referred to, could actually treat seizures. Despite the fact that there are quite a few decisive examples, the panel conclusively banged the gavel saying that the evidence is not enough.
FDA-approved medicine is usually deemed ineffective or effective based off a large-scale trials over a period of a few years. However as the studies for CBD oil were conducted only for a few months and they encompassed only a few patients. More research needs to be done to ensure that researchers get a chance to explore the other possibilities of CBD Oil and its benefits.
All of the participants were given the actual CBD oil and they knew that they are getting it. When it comes to marijuana, it is classified as Schedule- 1 drug as per the restrictions imposed by FDA and DEA. Though it is not a sure-shot cure for all epilepsy and seizures, but it showed considerable improvement in the condition of the children suffering with seizures. As CBD is non-psychoactive ingredient, risks and side effects of the drug are very less.
The majority of the patients in the studies were actually taking other drugs with anti-epilepsy designation, including valproate and clobazam. As it turns out, CBD oil is particularly good in blocking the liver enzymes which normally break down the aforementioned drugs. This makes it absolutely impossible to determine whether the reduction of the seizures was caused by the CBD or by the fact that those drugs stayed in the system longer due to the interaction. Even when used alongside other medications, CBD Oil did lower the seizures considerably for those that suffer with unrelenting bouts of seizures.
What to do?
There is some good news after all for CBD oil and its benefits. Certain randomized and higher-quality clinical trials which will examine the effectiveness of CBD are on their way. Meanwhile, there are quite a few things to keep up if you or someone you love suffers from intractable seizures. Medical marijuana is not subjected to the same regulations as the drugs which are FDA-approved. Hence, they could be contaminated. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that the underlying studies determined that CBD appears to be no more effective than other existing anti-epilepsy drugs already on the market. However, it is best to discuss in detail with your doctor before using any of the alternative health products.