On November 20, 2024, the Association of Cannabinoid Specialists was joined by Dr. Sandra Carrillo as she presented a symposium on Cannabis and Epilepsy.
Dr. Sandra Carrillo, a cannabinoid specialist, discusses the use of cannabis, particularly CBD, in the treatment of epilepsy. Dr. Carrillo highlights the objectives of her talk, which include understanding the physiological basis for cannabis use in epilepsy, reviewing preclinical and clinical data, and examining the benefits and adverse effects of cannabinoid therapies.
She emphasizes the challenges of treating drug-resistant epilepsy, especially in children, and the historical and contemporary evidence supporting the anticonvulsant properties of cannabis. Various studies and clinical trials are cited, showing the efficacy of CBD, including the FDA-approved medication Epidiolex.
Dr. Carrillo also talks about the endocannabinoid system and its role in epilepsy, discussing the interactions of phytocannabinoids like THC and CBD with this system.
The video concludes with a Q&A session where Dr. Carrillo addresses issues such as quality control of cannabis products and the potential benefits of combining CBD with small amounts of THC. She also emphasizes the importance of monitoring liver enzymes and drug interactions when prescribing high doses of CBD.