Potential Benefit of Add-on Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Pediatric Drug-Resistant Epilepsy: A Case Series

Can J Neurol Sci. 2022 Jul;49(4):595-597. doi: 10.1017/cjn.2021.151. Epub 2021 Jun 29.

Abstract

We present five cases of pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) that failed management using high cannabidiol (CBD) doses, but had significant reduction in seizure frequency with reintroduction or increasing doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). There is growing evidence supporting the use of whole-plant CBD-rich extracts (containing THC and other cannabinoids) in the treatment of pediatric DRE. Based on our experiences and reports in the literature, we propose that, in patients who fail management with an initial trial of high-dose CBD-focused therapy, there may be a role for add-on THC-focused formulations.

Keywords: CBD; Cannabis; Pediatric epilepsy; THC.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cannabidiol* / therapeutic use
  • Cannabis
  • Child
  • Dronabinol / therapeutic use
  • Drug Resistant Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use
  • Seizures / drug therapy

Substances

  • Plant Extracts
  • Cannabidiol
  • Dronabinol