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Epilepsy and Medical Cannabis

What is
Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can vary in type and severity, and may affect awareness, movement, sensation, or behaviour.

Treatment Options for 
Epilepsy

Treatment usually includes anti-epileptic medication tailored to seizure type, as well as lifestyle advice, seizure monitoring, and specialist neurology care. In some cases, surgery, implanted devices, or other targeted therapies may also be considered.

Medical Cannabis and 
Epilepsy

Certain cannabis-based medicines, especially CBD-dominant formulations, have become established treatment options for some severe and treatment-resistant epilepsy syndromes. Any use in epilepsy should be under specialist supervision, as seizure conditions require precise and safety-focused management.

Research & Evidence

Clinical research has shown that CBD can reduce seizure frequency in some patients with specific severe epilepsy syndromes, and this has led to licensed cannabinoid-based medicines in certain settings. Research is ongoing to clarify their role in other seizure disorders and neurological presentations.

Explore Your Treatment Options

If epilepsy remains difficult to control despite treatment, a specialist neurological consultation is essential to review further options. A clinician with appropriate expertise can assess whether cannabis-based treatment may be relevant in the context of your seizure type, treatment history, and overall risk profile.

Further Information
Support Organisations
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