The legalization of marijuana, for both recreational and medicinal purposes, has long been debated, with proponents of both sides making valid arguments. It has recently gained popularity once again in the media, with legislation in both Washington and Colorado legalizing recreational marijuana use. Currently only 23 states have legalized the usage of medical marijuana, even though it has been shown to benefit many treatment-resistant, chronic disorders. Medical marijuana has been used to alleviate symptoms such as pain and nausea in many chronic diseases including cancer, AIDS/HIV, glaucoma and multiple sclerosis.
Hemp Oil as an Alternative Treatment to Epilepsy
Marijuana has recently begun to be researched as a viable treatment for severe cases of epilepsy that have been resistant to typical antiepileptic medications. A derivative of the marijuana plant, hemp oil is believed to greatly reduce the amount and severity of seizures in epilepsy sufferers. Hemp oil has a higher amount of cannabidiol (CBD), but contains only a minimal amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is what causes the feeling associated with being "high". This allows patients to receive the benefits of the drug, without the cognitive impairment that is associated with marijuana use.
Hope 4 Haley and Friends Bill
Hemp oil is particularly beneficial for rare forms of epilepsy that are unresponsive to typical treatment, and that cause many child sufferers to have dozens of seizures a day. The severity of this disorder can lead to major delays in cognitive and neurological development, and can even lead to death in some instances. One victim of this devastating disorder, Haley Ward, has become the name behind a bill to allow the use of hemp oil in the management of seizures. The Hope 4 Haley and Friends bill will allow children in North Carolina, who have not responded to other medications, to use hemp oil as treatment. This bill will also make further research into the efficacy of this drug possible. Those using hemp oil have had very favorable outcomes so far.
Research and Trials for Hemp Oil
There is a great need for an alternative treatment for epilepsy. Over two million Americans have been diagnosed with epilepsy, and one-third of these sufferers are still unable to manage seizures with traditional medications and treatment. Clinical research and testing on CBD-rich hemp oil has been very promising. It has been shown to stop seizures in animal trials, and has drastically reduced the amount of seizures in patients who have tried this alternative medication.
A survey of nineteen parents of children with unresponsive epilepsy showed great results with hemp oil treatment. About 84% of these parents stated that their child had a reduction in the amount of seizures. Among these, 11% had no seizures while taking the hemp oil and 42% reported 80% fewer seizures. Parents also reported improved alertness, sleep and mood. Side effects were minimal, only drowsiness and fatigue were reported. These results are remarkable for children who have had very little quality of life due to their debilitating disorder.
While marijuana use remains controversial, it is important to remember that all prescribed medications come with risks and side effects. Many of the antiepileptic medications can also have very serious side effects. It is imperative for both the physician and patient to fully discuss all risks associated with potential treatment options, and weigh the benefits against the possible adverse effects. The use of hemp oil is not appropriate for everyone, and should only be considered after traditional medications have failed to eliminate seizures. While more research is needed, it appears that CBD-rich hemp oil may be a very beneficial treatment for treatment-resistant seizures.
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