Medical Marijuana

Cannabidiol in Epilepsy Treatment: Understanding CBD’s Role

Published

9 months ago

February 6, 2024

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By: Juan Sebastian Chaves Gil

The therapeutic use of cannabidiol (CBD) is a subject of controversy. While its application to treat various conditions such as anxiety, stress, insomnia, or certain chronic pains is on the rise, scientific and clinical evidence regarding the effects of this component of cannabis remains limited. In 2017, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that CBD has only been proven effective in some types of epilepsy after clinical trials, as research for other diseases is less advanced.

Several studies have shown the positive effects of cannabidiol in the treatment of refractory epilepsies, those that do not respond to conventional antiepileptic medications. However, neurologist Ángel Aledo Serrano warns about the need for caution and the importance of using it under the prescription and supervision of a neurologist.

There is a positive perception of CBD due to its natural origin, but Dr. Aledo emphasizes that it is crucial to adjust expectations, as it is not a universal remedy or healthier than other medications just because it comes from a plant.

In Spain, the only scientifically endorsed medication for certain epilepsies and authorized by the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) is Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ Epidyolex. This medication is indicated for Dravet Syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, and Tuberous Sclerosis, all of which are rare epileptic syndromes that are difficult to control with conventional medications.

Dravet Syndrome, a common genetic epilepsy, was the first to demonstrate the beneficial effects of CBD. Its application began ten years ago with the case of Charlotte Figi, an American girl with this syndrome, whose epileptic seizures significantly improved with a CBD-rich and low-THC cannabis treatment.

Despite the proven efficacy in Dravet Syndrome, Epidyolex has recently obtained approval in Spain to treat epileptic seizures associated with tuberous sclerosis, a rare genetic disease.

Regarding administration, cannabidiol can be used in children and adults of various ages, although its effectiveness is not as supported in children under 2 years old due to a lack of research. Epidyolex is presented in syrup form and is taken twice a day, with precautions regarding dosage to avoid adverse effects. Dr. Aledo highlights that the use of CBD is not as common as other antiepileptics due to its specific indication for rare and severe epilepsies.

Additionally, he underscores that its high cost, approximately 1,000 euros per bottle of Epidyolex, also contributes to its limited use.

As for the effects, cannabidiol improves the quality of life by reducing the frequency and intensity of epileptic seizures, although it rarely eliminates them entirely. Moreover, it can have a positive impact on cognition and behavior.

However, potential adverse effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea, and blood abnormalities, especially in liver transaminases, should be considered and monitored regularly.

Although Epidyolex is the only scientifically endorsed cannabidiol for epilepsy and is only available in hospital pharmacies, CBD is legally sold in parapharmacies in various forms and brands not scientifically tested. This poses risks as it lacks the necessary medical supervision, as the amount of cannabidiol and other components is not guaranteed and can vary, leading to intoxication or insufficient doses. Dr. Aledo emphasizes the importance of caution and consultation with a specialist in refractory epilepsies before resorting to products without scientific endorsement.

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Cannabis

What’s Next For Legal Marijuana

Published

1 week ago

November 6, 2024

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Going into 2025, the cannabis industry will have to be more limber.

The election is done and Donald Trump will be returning to the White House and Republicans having greater control in Congress. The election showed the majority of people want recreational in Florida, Nebraska will finally have medical marijuana, and cannabis wasn’t a deciding factor in swinging votes. With the House firmly in Republican hands, Mike Johnson has greater power to battle legal cannabis, but don’t count the industry out yet.

Nebraska, passed two ballot initiatives to legalize medical marijuana and regulate the industry on Tuesday. A whopping 67% of the public said yes, which is great for a traditional lyconservative state. Nebraska was one of the few holdouts for medical marijuana. The legality of the ballot initiatives is being questioned regarding discrepancy over fraudulent signatures and fraudulent notarizations. It is a civil case with a ruling expected after the election is cleared up. The Governor spoke out against cannabis. Those arguing on behalf of the petitioners said there was no “clear and convincing evidence” of fraud, and throwing out entire petitions would punish thousands of Nebraskan voters. If the cannabis backers and voters win the civil suit, medical marijuana should start by the end of 2025.

While the initiative failed to reach the 60% of votes needed in Florida, it garnered an impressive 56% of public support. Showing the population of the sunshine state is for fully legal weed, but could be 4 years until it is available. There are issues are Governor DeSantis use of public assets to combat the issue, so my legal wrangling in Florida.

A portion of the industry supported the incoming president, but the biggest industry influence for the upcoming administration will be alcohol and pharmaceutical companies. Alcohol alone is probably one of the biggest investors in the industry with over $13 billion. Wana Brands, which is partial owned by Constellation, launched hemp gummies that can be sold in most states and are as effective as THC gummies. A smart expansion of their products.

Cannabis is popular with the public with Pew Research saying 88+% of the population supporting legalization in some form. Even the traditional AARP has come around to extoll the medical and wellness benefits of the plant. A clearer pathway will be laid out in December with the DEA rescheduling.

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Cannabis

How Cannabis Helps With A Good Mood

Published

1 month ago

October 10, 2024

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There is lots going on in the world…but marijuana may be able to lift your spirits.

Back to the office, weather, politics, Karens, all taking a bite of your spirits. Over 50% of Gen Z feels anxiety, While it looks like it can be a rough autumn, there is hope. Some are born with a set of genetic variants making it easier to feel happy, while others are less fortunate. Genetic variants also play a role in an individual’s responsiveness to the environment. Some need a little more help, be it music, pets, or more. Here is how cannabis helps with a good mood.

Cannabis has gained popularity not only for its recreational use but also for its potential mood-enhancing effects. The science behind cannabis’s ability to influence mood is complex and multifaceted, involving various chemical compounds and their interactions with the human brain and body. At the heart of cannabis’s mood-altering effects is the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters found throughout the body. The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including mood, appetite, and pain sensation.

Ancient Chinese Tomb Shows Evidence Of Cannabis Use — Photo by CRYSTALWEED cannabis via Unsplash

The two main compounds of make the difference. First is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). This is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, particularly in areas associated with pleasure, memory, and cognition. By stimulating these receptors, THC can induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. The other is CBD (Cannabidiol). Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive but still interacts with the ECS. It has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties, which may contribute to improved mood.

Another path to helping is cannabis compounds can influence the release and reuptake of various neurotransmitters. Those including

Dopamine: THC can increase dopamine release in the brain’s reward centers, leading to feelings of pleasure and euphoria.

Serotonin: CBD may enhance serotonin signaling, which is associated with mood regulation and anxiety reduction.

GABA: Cannabis can affect GABA signaling, potentially promoting relaxation and stress relief.

.The anxiolytic effects of certain cannabis compounds, particularly CBD, may help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. This stress-reducing effect can contribute to an overall improvement in mood.

It’s important to note that the mood-enhancing effects of cannabis are often dose-dependent. Lower doses tend to have antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, while higher doses may increase the risk of anxiety or paranoia.

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alcohol

Is Smoking Marijuana Bad For Your Lungs

Published

1 month ago

October 9, 2024

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It is clear tobacco is bad for the lungs and body, but what about cannabis?

More people are consuming marijuana, and it is taking a toll on the alcohol industry. But while marijuana is healthier than alcohol, what about tobacco? Is smoking marijuana bad for your lungs? There are multiple ways to consume cannabis – gummies, oils, vapes and smoking. Smoking is currently holding on to the most popular way to consume, but new users consider it “old school”. One key reason is the effort needed to smoke. Vapes and gummies are easier to use “on the go” and have don’t have the smell. So they are easier in larger social situations. But there is still a faithful core committed to smoking. And for them, the lung question is important.

Smoking marijuana damages the lungs and can lead to chronic respiratory issues. Regular marijuana smokers often experience symptoms like chronic cough, increased phlegm production, wheezing, and acute bronchitis. The smoke from marijuana combustion contains many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens found in tobacco smoke.

Interestingly, studies have shown mixed results regarding marijuana’s effects on lung function measures. Some research indicates marijuana smoking is associated with airway inflammation and increased airway resistance. However, other studies have found that low to moderate marijuana use may not significantly impair lung function and may even be associated with increased lung capacity. The reasons for these conflicting findings are not fully understood, but may relate to the bronchodilating and anti-inflammatory properties of some cannabinoids.

Emphysema rates appear higher in marijuana smokers compared to tobacco smokers and non-smokers. Marijuana smoking has been linked to large air pockets forming between or within the lungs, especially in heavy users. However, the evidence for increased risk of lung cancer or COPD from marijuana alone remains inconclusive and requires further research

While marijuana smoke contains harmful compounds similar to tobacco smoke, there are some key differences. Marijuana is typically smoked less frequently than tobacco, leading to lower overall exposure.

But Marijuana smokers tend to inhale more deeply and hold smoke in their lungs longer, potentially increasing damage. And additionally, unlike tobacco, marijuana smoke is usually not filtered, which may increase toxin exposure.

Occasional use cases much less harm, so this information is for more for daily consumers, which can lead to other issues.

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