What is Cannabidiol (CBD): Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a natural compound found in cannabis plants that doesn't make you feel "high" like THC does. This gentle, non-intoxicating medication has gained attention for its potential to help with certain medical conditions, particularly seizure disorders in children and adults.

Unlike recreational marijuana, prescription CBD contains precisely measured amounts of the active ingredient. The FDA has approved one specific CBD medication called Epidiolex for treating rare forms of epilepsy, giving families and doctors a reliable treatment option backed by clinical research.

What is Cannabidiol Used For?

CBD is primarily prescribed for specific types of seizure disorders that are difficult to control with traditional medications. The main approved uses include Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, two rare but serious forms of epilepsy that typically begin in childhood.

These conditions can cause frequent, severe seizures that significantly impact daily life and development. For families dealing with these challenging disorders, CBD offers hope when other treatments haven't provided adequate seizure control.

Some doctors may also prescribe CBD for tuberous sclerosis complex, another rare condition that can cause seizures. Research continues into other potential uses, but currently, seizure disorders remain the primary medical application for prescription CBD.

How Does Cannabidiol Work?

CBD works by interacting with your body's endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that help regulate various functions including brain activity. Think of it as gently adjusting the electrical activity in your brain to reduce the likelihood of seizures occurring.

This medication is considered moderately potent, meaning it can be quite effective for the right conditions without being overwhelming. Unlike some seizure medications that can cause significant drowsiness or cognitive effects, CBD tends to have a gentler impact on daily functioning.

The exact mechanism isn't fully understood yet, but research suggests CBD helps stabilize nerve cell activity in the brain. This stabilization can significantly reduce both the frequency and severity of seizures in many patients.

How Should I Take Cannabidiol?

CBD oral solution should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, typically twice daily with food. Taking it with meals, especially those containing some fat, helps your body absorb the medication more effectively.

You'll receive CBD as a liquid that you measure carefully using the provided oral syringe. The liquid can be swallowed directly or mixed into soft foods like applesauce or pudding if taste is a concern, particularly for children.

Always use the measuring device that comes with your prescription rather than household spoons. Store the bottle in the refrigerator and gently shake it before each dose to ensure the medication is properly mixed.

Try to take your doses at the same times each day to maintain steady levels in your system. If you're also taking other seizure medications, continue those as directed unless your doctor specifically tells you to make changes.

How Long Should I Take Cannabidiol For?

The duration of CBD treatment varies significantly depending on your specific condition and how well you respond to the medication. For epilepsy management, many people need to take CBD long-term to maintain seizure control, sometimes for years.

Your doctor will typically start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it over several weeks while monitoring your response. This careful approach helps minimize side effects while finding the most effective dose for your situation.

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess how well the medication is working and whether any adjustments are needed. Your doctor will also monitor for potential side effects and interactions with other medications you might be taking.

Never stop taking CBD suddenly, as this could lead to increased seizure activity. If you need to discontinue the medication, your doctor will create a gradual tapering schedule to safely reduce your dose over time.

What Are the Side Effects of Cannabidiol?

Most people tolerate CBD well, but like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals. The good news is that serious side effects are relatively uncommon, and many mild effects improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Here are the most commonly reported side effects that you might experience:

• Drowsiness or fatigue, especially when starting treatment
• Decreased appetite or changes in eating habits
• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Mood changes, including irritability or agitation
• Sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns
• Mild skin rash or itching

These common effects often lessen as your body adapts to the medication, typically within a few weeks of starting treatment.

While less common, some people may experience more significant effects that require medical attention:

• Liver function changes, which your doctor will monitor with blood tests
• Significant weight loss or persistent loss of appetite
• Severe mood changes or thoughts of self-harm
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Signs of infection like fever or persistent fatigue

Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms or if side effects interfere with your daily activities. Most issues can be managed by adjusting your dose or timing.

Who Should Not Take Cannabidiol?

While CBD is generally safe for most people, certain individuals should avoid this medication or use it with extra caution. Your doctor will carefully review your medical history before prescribing CBD to ensure it's appropriate for your situation.

People with existing liver problems should be particularly cautious, as CBD can affect liver function. Your doctor will likely order blood tests to check your liver enzymes before starting treatment and periodically during therapy.

Here are situations where CBD might not be recommended:

• Known allergy to CBD or any components of the medication
• Severe liver disease or significantly elevated liver enzymes
• Currently taking certain medications that interact with CBD
• History of serious psychiatric conditions that might worsen with treatment
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding, as effects on developing babies aren't fully known

If you're taking other medications, especially other seizure drugs, blood thinners, or certain heart medications, your doctor will need to monitor you closely for potential interactions.

Cannabidiol Brand Names

The only FDA-approved prescription CBD medication is called Epidiolex, manufactured by Greenwich Biosciences. This is the form that doctors prescribe for treating seizure disorders, and it's the only CBD product that has undergone rigorous clinical testing for safety and effectiveness.

Epidiolex comes as an oral solution with a precise concentration of CBD, ensuring consistent dosing and quality. This pharmaceutical-grade product is very different from CBD products you might find in stores or online, which aren't regulated by the FDA.

If your doctor prescribes CBD, they'll specifically write for Epidiolex to ensure you receive the tested, reliable medication. Over-the-counter CBD products vary widely in quality and concentration, making them unsuitable for treating serious medical conditions.

Cannabidiol Alternatives

If CBD isn't suitable for your situation or doesn't provide adequate seizure control, several other medications can help manage epilepsy. Your doctor will work with you to find the best treatment approach for your specific type of seizures.

Traditional seizure medications that might be considered include:

• Valproic acid (Depakote) - effective for many seizure types but requires monitoring
• Levetiracetam (Keppra) - well-tolerated with fewer drug interactions
• Lamotrigine (Lamictal) - good for various seizure types with manageable side effects
• Topiramate (Topamax) - effective but may cause cognitive side effects
• Clobazam (Onfi) - particularly useful for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

For some people, combining CBD with traditional seizure medications works better than either approach alone. Your doctor might also consider other specialized treatments like vagus nerve stimulation or dietary therapies in certain situations.

Is Cannabidiol Better Than Other Seizure Medications?

CBD isn't necessarily "better" than other seizure medications, but it offers unique advantages for certain situations. The best seizure medication depends on your specific type of epilepsy, other health conditions, and how you respond to different treatments.

CBD's main advantages include causing less drowsiness than many traditional seizure drugs and having fewer interactions with other medications. For children with Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, CBD has shown particularly promising results in clinical trials.

However, traditional seizure medications have decades of research behind them and work very well for many people. Some are more affordable than CBD and have well-established dosing guidelines for different age groups and seizure types.

Your doctor will consider factors like your seizure pattern, other medications you're taking, and your lifestyle when determining whether CBD or another medication might work best for you.