The perceived effects of cannabis products in the management of seizures in CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder

CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD) is a severe treatment-resistant form of early-onset epilepsy. Current treatment options are often ineffective and associated with adverse effects, forcing families to seek alternative therapies for their children including products derived from cannabis. Reportsof miraculous cures and a public preferencefor 'natural' therapies have resulted in considerable public interest, and so this study aimed to characterize the use of cannabis in these individuals, as well as compare caregiver perceptions of efficacy and safety to objective evidence of seizure control and number of antiepileptic drugs used.

Citation:
Dale T, Downs J, Wong K, Leonard H. The perceived effects of cannabis products in the management of seizures in CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder. Epilepsy Behav. 2021.

Keywords:
CDKL5; Cannabidiol; Cannabinoid; Medical marijuana; Seizure; Tetrahydrocannabinol

Abstract:
CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD) is a severe treatment-resistant form of early-onset epilepsy. Current treatment options are often ineffective and associated with adverse effects, forcing families to seek alternative therapies for their children including products derived from cannabis. Reportsof miraculous cures and a public preferencefor 'natural' therapies have resulted in considerable public interest, and so this study aimed to characterize the use of cannabis in these individuals, as well as compare caregiver perceptions of efficacy and safety to objective evidence of seizure control and number of antiepileptic drugs used.