Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological problems in humans, worldwide. In the United States, about one percent of all people will experience an epileptic seizure, and one out of every 26 diagnosed with epilepsy, will suffer from repeated seizures. While children and senior citizens are most at risk from this condition, it can begin at any age. Recent medical studies have indicated that medical marijuana may be effective at helping reduce the frequency of seizures.
What Have Studies Shown About the Effects of Marijuana on Epilepsy?
While research has been limited, due to restrictive federal drug laws, recent studies have shown that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in medical marijuana, can indeed help prevent seizures. In a study conducted by researchers from the Ohio State University, Individuals with LGS, a particularly severe form of epilepsy, were given CBD every day for 14 weeks. The frequency of epileptic seizures in study patients dropped by more than 50%. The Epilepsy Foundation, a non-profit that advocates for epilepsy treatment and research, supports access to medical marijuana and continued research of its benefits for people with epilepsy.
Are Other Treatments for Epilepsy Available?
Conventional anti-seizure medications are available, and in many cases, are successful at reducing the frequency and severity of seizures. The side effects of these drugs typically include: drowsiness, nausea, headaches, vomiting, and vertigo. Furthermore, in roughly 30% of people with epilepsy, treatment with anti-seizure medications is ineffective.
Can Epilepsy Legally Be Treated with Medical Marijuana?
In Florida, epilepsy is one of many qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. Patients struggling with epilepsy, can schedule an appointment for a visit with a licensed medical professional, who will assess their condition, and medical records, before issuing a prescription for medical marijuana. Once approval is given by a licensed physician, patients have access to a wide range of medical marijuana-based products, to help treat their epilepsy.
People suffering from epileptic seizures that are not treatable with drugs, or those who are struggling with the side effects of conventional anti-seizure pharmaceuticals, should consider using medical marijuana. The professional medical doctors, and staff at Marijuana Doctor, have helped patients get a handle on the effects of epilepsy, through the use of medical marijuana. With convenient locations throughout the state of Florida, and pricing plans designed to fit any budget, Marijuana Doctor makes it easy for patients to treat their epilepsy with medical marijuana. Call today at (786) 224-4005.
