Does cannabidiol help reduce seizures in patients with Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies?
Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies (DEEs) are severe, drug-resistant epilepsies that often start in childhood and are linked to developmental delays. Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound from the cannabis plant, has been studied as an add-on treatment for seizures in DEEs. Research shows that pharmaceutical-grade CBD can significantly reduce seizure frequency in many patients, though it is not a cure and may have side effects.
What the research says
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that pharmaceutical-grade CBD is associated with a 49.9% reduction in seizures in patients with DEEs 1. This analysis included studies on various DEE syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and showed that CBD works as add-on therapy 1. A real-world study of 107 patients with DEEs reported that 69% achieved at least a 50% reduction in seizures, and 21% achieved at least a 75% reduction, after a median follow-up of 20 months 9. Patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, tuberous sclerosis complex, and other DEEs had higher response rates than those with Dravet syndrome 9. The same study noted that combining CBD with valproate was linked to lower efficacy, while combining with clobazam did not significantly affect outcomes 9. Clinical recommendations for tuberous sclerosis complex-associated epilepsy also mention CBD as a therapeutic option 78. However, CBD is not effective for everyone, and side effects can include drowsiness, diarrhea, and changes in appetite.
What to ask your doctor
- Could CBD be a suitable add-on treatment for my or my child's specific type of DEE?
- What are the potential side effects of CBD, and how can they be managed?
- Are there any interactions between CBD and current seizure medications, especially valproate or clobazam?
- What is the typical starting dose and how is it adjusted over time?
- How will we monitor seizure reduction and any changes in development or behavior?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Neurology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.