In a recent DEA ruling, a new marijuana drug was approved to treat two specific forms of epilepsy. Epidiolex was approved for use as an off-label treatment for certain cases of Dravet syndrome and see it here Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. However, it is not yet clear whether this approval will lead to a reclassification of cannabis under DEA guidelines or to a renaissance of medical cannabis research.
The marijuana drug Epidiolex, produced by GW Research Ltd., is derived from cannabidiol, a chemical found in marijuana that does not have psychoactive effects. It is administered as an oil. Despite its controversial status, Epidiolex could pave the way for further research on marijuana-derived medicines. Although marijuana remains a Schedule I drug in the United States, the DEA is considering declassifying CBD in addition to cannabis, which is currently still considered a highly addictive substance and should be treated as such.
The DEA also approved Marinol, a derivative of THC, for use as an anti-nausea drug. This compound has also been approved by the FDA for use in fighting nausea and increasing appetite in AIDS patients. The FDA approval for Epidiolex is the first step in making cannabis-based medicine available for the masses. However, some experts believe it is far too early to say whether this drug will be the breakthrough medicine for epilepsy.
GW Pharmaceuticals expects to launch Epidiolex in the United States later this fall. The drug will be manufactured in the United Kingdom and exported to the United States. Smaller independent high cbd low thc seeds pharmacies could also offer the drug. Epidiolex is approved for adults and children two and older. The drug is available at GW Pharma and Stoner Drug, which have been in business since 1896.
Epidiolex is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis that reduces seizures and improves quality of life. Epidiolex is the first marijuana drug to treat the conditions of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, two childhood conditions characterized by severe seizures. Aside from being effective for treating epilepsy, it may also help treat other conditions.
Earlier, the only marijuana drug approved for treating pediatric epilepsy, Dravet syndrome, was an inherited disease affecting infant development. Now, Epidiolex has been approved to treat these conditions. The drug is a first-in-class medication that works through a different mechanism in the brain than any other medication. Patients who take Epidiolex have nearly 40% fewer seizures per month when compared to those who take placebo or other medications.
Unlike Epidiolex, which has been approved by the DEA as a treatment for epilepsy, marijuana remains illegal. However, derived CBD is considered legal in many states. The DEA generally does not pursue individual users and dispensaries, and the FDA has not yet ruled whether it will allow Epidiolex for sale. The DEA must rule within 90 days.
The FDA has approved two man-made cannabis drugs, dronabinol and nabilone, as well as a patented version of THC called Epidiolex. Both treatments contain cannabinoids, which are similar to those in other medications. The most common side effects of Epidiolex included fatigue, diarrhea, and upset stomach. People taking a placebo also reported similar side effects.
However, the price of Epidiolex will not be inexpensive. Its cost is expected to be more than $55 per month. Even though more than thirty states have legalized marijuana, the federal government maintains a strict stance against it. Despite widespread support for marijuana, the Drug Enforcement Agency still classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug – a category that covers no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. GW Pharmaceuticals said they will make sure that the drug is covered by insurance.
As with any new medication, Epidiolex has its side effects. While it may be a good option for treating epilepsy, it must be used under the care of a medical professional. Symptoms of Epidiolex may include thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior. If these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider immediately.