Drug-resistant epilepsy and Medical Cannabis
What is
Drug-resistant epilepsy
Drug-resistant epilepsy describes epilepsy that remains poorly controlled despite trying appropriate anti-epileptic medicines. Ongoing seizures may affect safety, independence, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Treatment Options for
Drug-resistant epilepsy
Management often includes review at a specialist epilepsy centre, medication optimisation, seizure monitoring, lifestyle support, and consideration of other treatments such as surgery, vagus nerve stimulation, or dietary therapy. Specialist input is essential.
Medical Cannabis and
Drug-resistant epilepsy
Cannabis-based medicines, especially CBD-dominant formulations, are of particular interest in treatment-resistant seizure disorders. In selected patients, specialist clinicians may consider these treatments when standard options have not provided adequate seizure control.
Research & Evidence
Clinical studies have shown meaningful seizure reduction with CBD in certain severe and treatment-resistant epilepsy syndromes, and research continues into broader use across complex epilepsy presentations. Evidence is strongest where treatment is highly specialist and carefully monitored.
Explore Your Treatment Options
If seizures continue despite treatment, specialist neurological review is essential to explore all appropriate options. A clinician with expertise in epilepsy can assess whether cannabinoid-based medicines may have a role within a carefully managed treatment plan.