doi: 10.31053/1853.0605.v82.n1.45350.
Real-life study with pharmaceutical cannabidiol in refractory epilepsy
- PMID: 40163830
- DOI: 10.31053/1853.0605.v82.n1.45350
Pharmaceutical-grade cannabidiol (CBD) is an alternative treatment for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). In 2022, the Italian Hospital of Buenos Aires implemented a non-medical treatment switch (NMSC), replacing one commercial pharmaceutical CBD product with another, the latter also being the initial treatment option for new patients. Our objective was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of switching commercial products in this population.
Methods: A retrospective cohort of patients with DRE included patients who switched brands of pharmaceutical CBD or started treatment with the new product. Clinical response was assessed as modification in seizure frequency, perception of change with the Global Impression of Change scale, and safety considering discontinuation and/or presence of adverse effects.
Results: Nineteen patients were included, 12 in the switching group and 7 new-starters (7 pediatric and 12 adults). One patient discontinued treatment due to lack of response. Of those who completed follow-up, 8 (44%) had a reduced seizure frequency, 6 (33%) had no changes, and 4 (22%) had an increase. According to the Global Impression of Change scale, 9 (50%) remained unchanged, 5 (28%) had barely perceptible changes, and 4 (22%) reported improvement. Adverse events were mild and transient.
Conclusion: The new commercial product with pharmaceutical-grade CBD is a safe and valid option for both substitution and initial treatment in patients with DRE. During treatment, patients perceived stability or improvement according to the Global Impression of Change scale.
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