[Cannabidiol: its use in refractory epilepsies].

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Epileptology

Background:

• Refractory epilepsies significantly impair quality of life for patients and families.
• Difficult-to-control seizures are a hallmark of certain epileptic syndromes.
• Delayed neuropsychomotor development is often associated with these severe epilepsy types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) as an add-on treatment for refractory epilepsy.
• To evaluate the impact of CBD on seizure control and neuropsychological outcomes.
• To gather caregiver perspectives on CBD's effects in epilepsy management.

Main Methods:

• An observational study design utilizing caregiver surveys.
• Data collection encompassed patient and caregiver details, seizure changes, and neuropsychological effects.
• Cannabidiol use duration ranged from one month to one year in 15 patients.

Main Results:

• Seizure frequency decreased in 40% of patients; 60% achieved over 50% seizure reduction.
• Complete seizure remission occurred in 27% of participants.
• Significant improvements were noted in behavior (73%), language (60%), sleep (50%), eating habits (43%), and mood (100%).

Conclusions:

• Cannabidiol demonstrates potential as an effective adjuvant therapy for refractory epilepsies.
• CBD may positively influence seizure control and enhance neurocognitive aspects.
• Caregiver-reported improvements in overall perception suggest a favorable impact on quality of life.