Cannabidiol in Drug-Resistant Epilepsy (DRE) in Children: A Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the effectiveness and tolerability of cannabidiol (CBD) in children with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE).

METHODS: Records of children with DRE who received CBD for at least six months were reviewed. Reduction in seizure frequency [complete (> 90%), partial (30-90%), no response (< 30%)], parent reported adverse effects and discontinuation of CBD, if any, were noted.

RESULTS: Records of 50 children with DRE (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome 32, Dravet syndrome 4, and Tuberous sclerosis complex 2), mean (SD) age 7.8 (4.3) years were reviewed. Complete, partial, and no response to CBD was seen in 10, 18 and 14 children; 8 became seizure-free. Eight children discontinued treatment due to lack of efficacy (n = 4), by increased adverse effects (n = 3) and aggravation of seizures (n = 1). Adverse effects were noted in 22 (44%), none required hospitalization.

CONCLUSION: Cannabidiol is a useful and safe add-on drug in children with DRE.