Medical Marijuana: An Unexpected Weapon Against Seizures and Epilepsy

In recent years, there has been a flurry of new data that supports the benefits of medical marijuana in treating both epilepsy and seizures. The National Institute of Health notes that there are close to 3 million people in the U.S. who are diagnosed with epilepsy and more than 1 million of those patients also experience seizures that are difficult to control. With the long-awaited legalization of marijuana and certain derivatives finally in place, medical cannabis is now an option for those suffering from these ailments.

The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes is on the rise, and even better, there are various options in how a patient can use it. Preparations of medical marijuana in different strengths and with varying levels of concentrations are now available. In short, this means these preparations with varying levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrations can be customized to meet the needs of the patient.

For many, medical marijuana is the key difference between a day with uncontrollable epileptic seizures and a day that is seizure-free.

The Science of Medical Marijuana

What’s interesting is the multitudes of new data in academia and science. Because of this, we now have access to research that supports cannabis as it relates to the endocannabinoid system in “seizure generation, maintenance, and control” of epilepsy. In one recent study from the National Institute of Health, it was found that any negative side effects were minimal and short-lived, especially in high-CBD/low-THC products as they pertain to seizure and epilepsy treatment options for both adults and children.

Serenity Medical Online Can Help

There have been numerous studies on the role of medical marijuana in patients with epilepsy, either with or without seizures. Studies show seizures are reduced by approximately 40 percent when medical marijuana is added to the treatment plan. There are numerous studies that are ongoing that also have promising results. In particular, a recent Israeli study found that children who were diagnosed with “hard to control epilepsy” and who began a medicinal marijuana program reported a “significant reduction” in the seizures.

There are possible side effects, though most report any side effects are both short-lived and mild, especially compared to the violence of the seizures they experience. Among some of the side effects, sleepiness, loss of appetite, and fatigue were noted.

It’s worth noting that most physicians agree that a combination of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) is most effective for these disorders. It is also believed that medical marijuana can significantly reduce the number of opioid prescriptions a patient needs.

It’s important to find a trusted, ethical and legal dispensary to ensure uninterrupted access. At different times, there have been shortages of medical marijuana due to horticultural, manufacturing, and financial factors. A patient is less likely to experience these delays when they have a trusted dispensary.

Serenity Medical Online was established in 2008 and is now in both California and New York. With a commitment to federal and state laws, including HIPAA compliance laws, clients are assured of a private experience through the online Telehealth portal. It is convenient, easy to use, and saves time.

Recently, we proudly welcomed to our staff a physician skilled in pediatric disorders and who can play an important role in helping parents decide the best course of action for their children who suffer not only from epilepsy or seizures, but chronic pain, cancer, and other diseases.

We encourage new clients to contact us and secure pre-qualification. A physician will review your information and then discuss with you the options and recommendations. For those who do not wish to smoke marijuana, there are other ways of ingesting it, including orally – brownies, for instance; tinctures, topical solutions and even vaporizing. Learn more about what we offer at Serenity Medical Online by calling us today at 951-751-1450.

Epilepsy and seizures don’t have to be as frightening of a reality to live with. Knowing the triggers of seizures is important so that they might be avoided, whether they are due to a poor diet, stress, sleep deprivation or other triggers. If medical cannabis is an option for you, it is one we would encourage you to try.

If you’re interested in learning how medical marijuana can help you, contact us today.