Cannabidiol in Epilepsy: Restoring Locomotion and Seizure Control

Epilepsy remains a global challenge, with about one-third of affected patients being resistant to treatment. Seizures and motor abnormalities characterized by movement difficulties are common in epilepsy, highlighting the need for treatments that can both improve motor outcomes and control seizures. The therapeutic potential of Cannabidiol (CBD) in this regard necessitates a review that explores its effects and underlying mechanisms of action. This study reviewed studies from major scientific databases on the use of CBD in animal and human models of epilepsy. We also integrated tools of network pharmacology and molecular modeling to investigate how CBD may interact with various biological targets. The cannabinoid broadly demonstrates minimal or no changes in motor outcomes, reinforcing its low toxicity and tolerability. Evidence suggests that CBD has potential for seizure control by prolonging the time to seizure onset and decreasing seizure severity. The antiepileptic effects of CBD involve the modulation of multiple targets or genes. This multitarget interaction network may underlie its neuroprotective effects by regulating endocannabinoid signaling, neurotransmission, inflammation, and metabolic pathways. Chemical bonding between CBD and key protein residues reinforces evidence supporting its interaction with these targets. Despite the limited clinical data and algorithmic constraints of network pharmacology, the present findings reveal the potential of CBD to improve epileptic outcomes. The multitarget mechanisms of this phytocannabinoid offer valuable insights that may guide and advance epilepsy research.