What is Epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a seizure disorder in which there is a sudden temporary change in how the brain functions. The healthy brain is made up of millions of inter-connecting nerve cells called neurons. These cells are constantly communicating with each other by sending signals through tentacle like connections called axons and dendrites. Neurons normally generate impulses up to 80 times a second. During an epileptic seizure that rate can increase up to 500 times a second. Epileptic seizures may result in blackouts, involuntary movement of the arms and legs, and distorted perceptions. When the impulse rate returns to normal, the seizure ends and the patient is generally left with a feeling of extreme fatigue. There are many different forms of epilepsy, and management depends on correct diagnosis.

Does Epilepsy qualify me for medical marijuana use?

Under Missouri’s medical marijuana rules, epilepsy, along with other seizure disorders, is a qualifying medical condition. Any Missourian with an epilepsy diagnosis is eligible to receive their medical marijuana card. This is great news since there is an overwhelming amount of evidence that shows cannabis can help treat epilepsy!

How does medical marijuana help treat Epilepsy?

Substances in marijuana called cannabinoids affect cells in the body called cannabinoid receptors. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of those substances that may affect the body in a way that helps reduce seizures. Unlike THC, which creates the “high” feeling, CBD does not cause psychoactive effects. This lack of psychoactive effects allows patients to live with fewer seizures without dealing with the high feeling if they prefer to avoid it.

The best strains of marijuana for treating epilepsy tend to include those that are high in CBD and low in THC. Indica strains generally contain more CBD than THC, which makes them popular for treating epilepsy

Learn more here about getting your medical marijuana card!