Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) use in Children with Epilepsy

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
• Epilepsy Management

Background:

• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is increasingly explored by pediatric patients with epilepsy.
• Understanding CAM prevalence, effectiveness, and communication gaps is crucial for optimizing care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate CAM use in pediatric epilepsy patients in rural Pennsylvania.
• To characterize CAM prevalence, perceived effectiveness, and reasons for use.
• To assess parent-physician communication regarding CAM.

Main Methods:

• A telephone survey was conducted with 200 parents/caregivers of children with epilepsy.
• Data collected included CAM usage, types of CAM, reasons for use, perceived effectiveness, and side effects.
• Statistical analysis explored associations between CAM use and clinical factors.

Main Results:

• Thirteen percent of pediatric epilepsy patients reported using CAM, with cannabis-related products (CBD oil, medical marijuana) being most common.
• Dissatisfaction with antiseizure drugs motivated 48% of CAM users.
• CAM use was associated with increased seizure severity (P=.004) and prior use of Epidiolex or ketogenic diet (P<.001).
• 80% of CAM users discussed CAM with their neurologist; 11% reported CAM side effects.
• Non-users expressed significant interest in future CAM use, particularly cannabis products.

Conclusions:

• CAM use, especially cannabis-based products, is prevalent among pediatric epilepsy patients in rural Pennsylvania.
• CAM use is linked to increased seizure severity and prior use of specific treatments like Epidiolex or the ketogenic diet.
• Proactive physician-led discussions about CAM are essential for safe and effective integration into pediatric epilepsy care.