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Journal of Pediatric Epilepsy 2014; 03(01): 063-066
DOI: 10.3233/PEP-14077
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart – New York

Cannabinoids for epilepsy: is marijuana an effective treatment for epilepsy?

Madhu Jasti
a   Department of Neurology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
,
Vinusha Yarlagadda
b   Department of Medicine, Alluri Sita Ramaraju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, India
,
Charuta Joshi
c   Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
› Author Affiliations
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Further Information

Publication History

10 February 2014

26 February 2014

Publication Date:
18 July 2015 (online)

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Abstract

Marijuana has been shown to have anti-epileptic effects in animal studies. Some animal studies suggest that Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol can control seizures not responsive to other treatments. There is currently very limited scientific data to support the use of marijuana in the treatment of epilepsy in humans. Nonetheless, there is a large volume of anecdotal evidence showing clinical benefit in treating epilepsy. Despite limited evidence of efficacy, many patients with epilepsy believe marijuana is an effective therapy and are actively using it. Infact, some states in the United States of America have approved its use for epilepsy.

Keywords

Marijuana - cannabidiol - epilepsy