THE USE OF CANNABIDIOL IN PATIENTS WITH EPILEPSY

Abstract

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can lead to episodes of loss of consciousness, involuntary movements, strange sensations, and other symptoms, depending on the area of ​​the brain affected. Although epilepsy is more common in older adults, it can also occur in children at a significant rate. In this context, cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant, has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, which include pain relief, reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms, relief of cancer-related symptoms and even possible properties neuroprotective drugs, has been considered as a treatment option for childhood epilepsy, especially in cases of refractory epilepsy, that is, cases in which conventional antiepileptic medications are not effective in controlling seizures. The objective of this work was to discuss the use of cannabis sativa in the treatment of childhood epilepsy, through qualitative research and literature review between 2019 and 2024, with the aim of demonstrating the main aspects involving the medicinal use of cannabidiol in infant patients. diagnosed with epilepsy, evaluating the practical results of CBD treatment and the impacts on children's quality of life. In the end, we intend to present the use of Cannabidiol as a viable treatment option for childhood epilepsy due to its notable benefits in controlling the disease.