Many people are turning to CBD oil as a potential supplement to help manage seizure disorders, particularly after the FDA’s approval of Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication specifically for certain types of seizures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using CBD oil for seizures—from the scientific evidence supporting its use to practical dosing guidelines and potential interactions with other medications. As a company who has spent years researching cannabis therapeutics through CBD use, New Phase Blends has compiled this resource to help you make informed decisions about your health.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand how CBD may work for seizure management, what current research tells us about its effectiveness, how to choose quality products, and important safety considerations to keep in mind before starting any new treatment.
Traditional Seizure Treatments and Their Limitations
Most people with epilepsy are initially treated with anti-seizure medications. While these work effectively for about two-thirds of patients, the remaining one-third continue to experience seizures despite trying multiple medications—a condition known as drug-resistant epilepsy.
Traditional treatments include various approaches beyond just medication. Anti-seizure medications form the first line of defense, with over 20 different types available that work through various mechanisms. For those who don’t respond adequately to medications, vagus nerve stimulation offers an option where an implanted device sends mild electrical pulses to the brain through the vagus nerve. The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, has shown effectiveness particularly in some childhood epilepsies. In severe cases, surgery to remove seizure-producing areas of the brain may be recommended when the seizure focus can be precisely identified.
Many anti-seizure medications come with significant side effects, including fatigue, dizziness, memory problems, and mood changes. These side effects, combined with continued seizure activity in some patients, have led many people to explore complementary approaches, including CBD oil.
What Is CBD Oil and How Might It Help With Seizures?
Cannabidiol, commonly abbreviated as CBD, represents just one of the numerous phytochemicals (over 100 distinct compounds) that naturally occur in cannabis varieties. What distinguishes cannabidiol from its more famous counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is that cannabidiol lacks intoxicating properties—it won’t alter your mental state or create the euphoric sensation commonly associated with marijuana use.
The wellness products available commercially are generally formulated using extracts obtained from industrial hemp—a specific variety of cannabis cultivated specifically for its minimal THC concentration (legally required to contain less than 0.3% THC). After extraction, this concentrated cannabidiol is typically blended with various base oils to create the final product. These carrier oils—such as MCT (derived from coconuts), olive, or pressed hemp seed oil—help improve absorption, stability, and palatability while providing practical dosing options for consumers.
The Science Behind CBD for Seizures
Research into how CBD affects seizures has revealed several potential mechanisms that may explain its anticonvulsant effects. CBD appears to modulate the release and uptake of important neurotransmitters like glutamate, which plays a significant role in excessive neuronal activity during seizures. By helping regulate glutamate levels, CBD may prevent the neuronal overexcitation that triggers seizure activity.
While CBD doesn’t bind directly to the main cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) like THC does, it affects several other receptors and ion channels that may help regulate neuronal excitability. These include TRPV1 receptors, GPR55 receptors, and various voltage-gated ion channels that control neuronal firing patterns.
CBD has also demonstrated notable anti-inflammatory properties, which may address the inflammatory processes that contribute to some types of seizures. Inflammation in the brain has been increasingly linked to epileptogenesis, so this anti-inflammatory action could be a key component of CBD’s effectiveness.
Additionally, research suggests CBD may have neuroprotective properties that help protect brain cells from damage and reduce neuronal hyperexcitability. This protection might prevent the progressive worsening that can occur in some epilepsy syndromes over time.
Research led by Dr. Orrin Devinsky, director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at NYU Langone Health and lead investigator in the Epidiolex trials, suggests that CBD may act on multiple molecular targets rather than a single mechanism, potentially serving as a kind of “circuit breaker” for seizure activity.
Studies on CBD for Seizures: What Does the Research Show?
The research on CBD for seizures has progressed from anecdotal reports to rigorous clinical trials over the past decade, culminating in the FDA approval of Epidiolex in 2018.
Early Research and Preclinical Studies
Early research on CBD’s anticonvulsant properties dates back to the 1970s. Animal studies demonstrated that CBD could reduce seizure activity in rodent models of epilepsy. A notable study published in Epilepsia (1980) by Cunha et al. showed that CBD reduced seizure frequency in patients with epilepsy compared to a placebo group. However, due to limited sample sizes and lack of follow-up studies, CBD’s therapeutic role remained unclear for several decades.
The Landmark Epidiolex Trials
One of the most significant breakthroughs in CBD research came with the development of Epidiolex, a purified CBD formulation approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018 for treating two rare and severe forms of epilepsy: Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). The approval was based on multiple clinical trials demonstrating CBD’s efficacy.
Conclusion: These trials confirmed that CBD was effective in reducing seizures in LGS patients.
Dravet Syndrome Study (2017, The New England Journal of Medicine)
A pivotal randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial led by Devinsky et al. assessed CBD in children with Dravet syndrome, a rare and treatment-resistant form of epilepsy. The study involved 120 children who received either CBD (20 mg/kg/day) or a placebo.
Results: The median seizure frequency dropped by 39% in the CBD group compared to 13% in the placebo group.
Conclusion: CBD significantly reduced seizure frequency in Dravet syndrome patients, marking one of the first large-scale clinical confirmations of its efficacy.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome Studies (2018, The Lancet Neurology)
Two large-scale clinical trials examined CBD for LGS, another severe childhood epilepsy disorder characterized by multiple types of seizures.
The first trial involved 171 patients, with CBD reducing drop seizure frequency by 44%, compared to a 22% reduction in the placebo group.
The second trial, with 225 patients, showed a 42% reduction in seizures with CBD treatment.
Real-World Data and Long-Term Use
Following FDA approval, researchers analyzed long-term safety and efficacy data. A 2021 study published in Epilepsy & Behavior examined extended Epidiolex use over several years. It found that while some patients experienced continued seizure reduction, others developed tolerance, requiring dosage adjustments. Additionally, common side effects included diarrhea, sleepiness, and decreased appetite.
Beyond Rare Epilepsies
Research has expanded to investigate CBD’s effects on other types of seizures and epilepsy beyond the rare syndromes initially studied. A 2018 review in the journal Epilepsia analyzed existing evidence and found that CBD may be beneficial for patients with complex partial seizures, though the authors emphasized that more controlled research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.
Open-label studies, while less rigorous than randomized controlled trials, have shown promising results for patients with various forms of treatment-resistant epilepsies beyond Dravet and LGS. These studies provide preliminary evidence that CBD’s benefits might extend to more common epilepsy types.
The research landscape continues to evolve, with ongoing studies examining CBD’s potential for specific epilepsy syndromes like CDKL5 deficiency disorder and Doose syndrome. These investigations aim to determine whether the benefits seen in Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes translate to other epilepsy types with different underlying mechanisms.
It’s important to note that most studies have used pharmaceutical-grade CBD, which is more precisely dosed and purer than many commercial CBD products.
Is CBD Oil Good for Seizures?
The research and clinical experience with CBD for seizures suggest several potential benefits for those who respond to treatment. Reduced seizure frequency stands as the primary benefit, with many patients reporting fewer seizures after starting CBD. Some experience dramatic improvements with reductions of 50% or more in their seizure frequency, which can transform daily life for those previously experiencing frequent episodes.
Even when seizures continue to occur, many patients notice improved seizure severity. The episodes may become less intense, shorter in duration, or involve fewer symptoms. This improvement can mean faster recovery times and less disruption to daily activities, even if seizures aren’t completely eliminated.
Better quality of life extends beyond just seizure control. Many patients and caregivers report improvements in sleep quality, mood stability, and cognitive function after starting CBD. These secondary benefits can be as meaningful as seizure reduction for overall wellbeing.
For some patients, CBD oil allows for a reduced medication burden. When CBD proves effective, some individuals may be able to reduce doses of other anti-seizure medications under medical supervision, potentially decreasing the overall medication load and associated side effects.
Compared to many traditional anti-seizure medications, CBD typically has a milder side effect profile. This can be particularly valuable for patients who have struggled with significant adverse effects from conventional treatments.
Things to Consider About CBD Use to Manage Seizures
Despite promising results, CBD is not a miracle cure and comes with important limitations that should be carefully considered. Variability in response represents perhaps the biggest challenge in CBD treatment. Not everyone experiences seizure reduction with CBD, and there’s currently no reliable way to predict who will benefit. Response varies widely between individuals, with some seeing dramatic improvements while others notice little to no effect.
Side Effects
Potential side effects, while generally milder than many traditional anti-seizure medications, do occur. Common side effects include drowsiness, decreased appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes. For some patients, these side effects may limit CBD’s usefulness, particularly if they interfere with daily functioning.
Lack of Insurance
Limited insurance coverage creates accessibility barriers for many patients. Outside of prescription Epidiolex, most CBD products are not covered by insurance and can be prohibitively expensive, especially at the higher doses often needed for seizure management. This financial burden may make long-term use unsustainable for some patients.
Poor Quality Products
Product quality concerns add another layer of complexity. Commercial CBD products vary greatly in quality, potency, and consistency. Without standardization or regulation comparable to pharmaceutical drugs, finding reliable products requires significant research and trial-and-error.
How to Use CBD for Seizures: Practical Guidelines
If you’re considering CBD for seizure management, the most important first step is to speak with your neurologist or epilepsy specialist. Never discontinue your prescribed medications without medical supervision, as this can lead to increased seizures and potential medical emergencies.
Your doctor can:
- Help evaluate if CBD might be appropriate for your specific seizure type
- Prescribe pharmaceutical-grade CBD (Epidiolex) if indicated
- Monitor for potential drug interactions
- Help adjust dosages of other medications if needed
- Order appropriate blood tests to monitor liver function and drug levels
Choosing a CBD Product
If your doctor supports trying CBD and Epidiolex isn’t prescribed, finding a quality product is crucial:
- Look for third-party testing: Reputable companies have their products tested by independent laboratories and make the results available to consumers.
- Check the CBD concentration: Products should clearly state the amount of CBD per serving.
- Consider full-spectrum vs. isolate: Full-spectrum contains other cannabis compounds that may contribute to effectiveness through the “entourage effect,” while isolate contains only CBD.
- Verify THC content: For legal hemp-derived products, THC should be less than 0.3%. Some sensitive individuals may prefer zero-THC products.
- Evaluate extraction methods: CO2 extraction is generally considered the cleanest method.
- Check for contaminants: Quality products will be tested for pesticides, heavy metals, molds, and solvents.
How Much CBD to Take For Seizures
Finding the right CBD dosage is highly individualized. Generally, the recommended approach is:
- Start low and go slow: Begin with a very low dose (50mg per day for adults) and gradually increase.
- Maintain a consistent schedule: Take CBD at the same times each day for more reliable results.
- Keep a seizure diary: Track seizure activity, side effects, and overall well-being to evaluate effectiveness.
- Consider divided doses: Many people find that taking CBD 2-3 times per day provides more consistent results than a single daily dose.
- Be patient: It may take several weeks to find the optimal dose and see maximum benefits.
According to published clinical guidelines, patients using CBD for epilepsy treatment often require higher doses than those using it for other conditions. Finding the minimum effective dose is considered important to minimize side effects and cost while maximizing therapeutic benefits.
Administration Methods of CBD Oil Products
CBD can be administered in several ways:
- Oils and tinctures: Placed under the tongue for faster absorption or swallowed. This is the most common method and allows for precise dosing.
- Capsules: Provide consistent dosing but may have slower onset.
- Edibles: May be easier for some to take but provide less precise dosing.
For seizure management, oils and tinctures are generally preferred because they allow for precise dose adjustments and can be administered even when a person cannot swallow pills.
Common Misconceptions and Myths About Using CBD For Managing Seizures
Several misconceptions exist about using CBD for seizures:
Misconception 1: “CBD works for all types of seizures”
Reality: While CBD has shown effectiveness for some seizure types, response varies widely. It appears most effective for certain genetic epilepsies and may have less impact on some other seizure types.
Misconception 2: “More CBD is always better”
Reality: Higher doses don’t necessarily mean better results. Some patients respond well to relatively low doses, while others may need higher amounts. Finding the optimal dose is key.
Misconception 3: “CBD has no side effects”
Reality: Though generally well-tolerated, CBD can cause side effects including drowsiness, decreased appetite, diarrhea, and elevated liver enzymes. It can also interact with many medications.
Misconception 4: “All CBD products are basically the same”
Reality: The quality, potency, and composition of CBD products vary enormously. Pharmaceutical-grade CBD (Epidiolex) is standardized, while commercial products may vary in actual CBD content.
Misconception 5: “CBD can completely replace anti-seizure medications”
Reality: For most people with epilepsy, CBD works best as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments. Complete seizure freedom from CBD alone is relatively rare.
How Long Can It Take for CBD Oil to Help with Seizures?
Based on clinical observations and research, the timeline for CBD’s effects on seizures varies considerably. Some patients report noticing differences within days of starting CBD, but this immediate response is relatively uncommon for seizure reduction. Most people begin to notice changes in seizure patterns within the first month of consistent use, which often coincides with reaching a therapeutic dose level.
The clinical trials that led to Epidiolex approval typically evaluated patients after 14 weeks (about 3 months) of treatment. For many patients, this medium-term timeframe allows for dose optimization and stable response assessment.
Factors Affecting the Response Time of CBD
Several variables influence how quickly someone might respond to CBD. The dosage and titration schedule play a significant role, as starting with very low doses and increasing slowly (as is typically recommended) means it may take longer to reach a potentially effective dose. The type and frequency of seizures also matter, as some seizure types appear to respond more quickly to CBD than others. Additionally, for those with infrequent seizures, it may take longer to determine whether there’s a meaningful reduction.
Consistency of administration is another important factor, as taking CBD regularly and at consistent times affects how quickly and reliably it works. Individual metabolism varies significantly between people, which can affect both response time and effective dosage. Finally, interactions with other medications can impact results, as some anti-seizure medications may enhance or reduce CBD’s effects, potentially altering the timeline for seeing benefits.
Are There Side Effects Associated With CBD Use?
CBD generally has a favorable safety profile compared to many traditional seizure medications, but it’s not without side effects.
- Drowsiness and fatigue are among the most commonly reported effects, which may be more pronounced at higher doses or when CBD is combined with other medications that cause sedation. Some patients find this side effect diminishes over time as the body adjusts to treatment.
- Decreased appetite can be problematic, particularly for children or individuals who already struggle with nutrition. This effect may require monitoring of weight and nutritional status, especially in developing children.
- Gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or abdominal discomfort can occur, though these symptoms often improve with continued use or adjustments in how the CBD is taken.
- Dry mouth is a relatively minor but common complaint among CBD users.
- Changes in mood have been noted by some patients and caregivers, with effects ranging from mild irritability to improved mood states in others.
Perhaps most concerning from a medical perspective is the potential for elevated liver enzymes, especially when CBD is taken with certain anti-seizure medications like valproate. This effect necessitates regular blood monitoring for patients using these medication combinations.
Drug Interactions
CBD can interact with many medications by affecting liver enzymes that metabolize drugs, particularly the cytochrome P450 enzyme system. These interactions may alter how the body processes certain medications, potentially leading to higher or lower blood levels than expected.
Clobazam (Onfi) represents one of the most significant interaction concerns. CBD can increase levels of this commonly prescribed anti-seizure medication, potentially increasing both its effectiveness and side effects. While this interaction may be beneficial in some cases by enhancing seizure control, it also requires careful monitoring for increased sedation or other adverse effects.
Valproic acid (Depakote) presents another important interaction. Combined use with CBD may increase the risk of liver enzyme elevation, potentially causing liver stress or damage in some patients. Regular blood tests to monitor liver function are essential when these medications are used together.
Beyond these specific medications, CBD may affect levels of other seizure medications including phenytoin, carbamazepine, topiramate, and others. The direction and magnitude of these effects vary between individuals and medications, making medical supervision crucial.
Always inform all your healthcare providers about CBD use, especially before starting new medications. This transparency allows for appropriate monitoring and dose adjustments as needed to maintain safety and effectiveness.
Can Children Use CBD For Their Seizures?
Children represent a significant portion of patients using CBD for seizure management, particularly those with rare epilepsy syndromes. While Epidiolex is approved for children as young as one year old with certain conditions, the developing brain and body require special consideration.
Children metabolize medications differently than adults and may experience different side effects or long-term outcomes. Always work with a pediatric neurologist for appropriate dosing and monitoring when considering CBD for a child with seizures. Regular assessments of growth, development, and cognitive function are important parts of ongoing care.
Conclusion: Is CBD Right for Your Seizure Management?
CBD oil represents a promising option for some people with seizure disorders, particularly those who haven’t responded adequately to traditional treatments. The strongest evidence supports its use for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex, but many patients with other forms of epilepsy report benefits as well.
If you’re considering CBD for seizure management:
- Work with your healthcare team: Never make changes to your epilepsy treatment plan without medical supervision.
- Do your research: Understand what the evidence does and doesn’t show about CBD for your specific type of seizures.
- Choose quality products: If not using prescription Epidiolex, invest in third-party tested products from reputable companies.
- Track your results: Keep detailed records of seizure activity, side effects, and overall well-being.
- Be patient and realistic: Finding the right treatment approach takes time, and complete seizure freedom may not be achievable for everyone.
Remember that CBD is typically most effective as part of a comprehensive treatment approach that may include conventional medications, lifestyle management, and other therapies. By taking an informed, cautious approach under medical guidance, you can evaluate whether CBD might be a valuable addition to your seizure management plan.
