CBD and Epilepsy: Ground Breaking NHS Clinical Trials to Explore Treatment Potential
At CBD Oils UK, we are passionate about the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) in improving lives, particularly for individuals with challenging medical conditions like epilepsy. We are excited to share news of two pioneering NHS clinical trials set to investigate the safety and effectiveness of CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in treating drug-resistant epilepsy in both children and adults.
The Clinical Trials: A Step Towards Scientific Validation
These long-awaited trials, co-led by Professor Finbar O’Callaghan and Professor Helen Cross from University College London (UCL) and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), will commence in 2025. The trials aim to assess the efficacy of CBD alone and in combination with a small amount of THC in reducing seizures and improving quality of life for patients with early-onset and genetic generalised epilepsies.
A total of 500 participants—both adults and children—will be randomly assigned one of three treatments: CBD, CBD with a small amount of THC, or a placebo. Over a 24-week period, researchers will closely monitor how these treatments impact seizure frequency and severity, as well as other factors like sleep, learning, behaviour, stress, anxiety, and overall quality of life. These trials will use pharmaceutical-grade formulations, MRX2 (CBD) and MRX2T (CBD+THC), developed by Ananda Developments.
Why These Trials Matter
This research represents a crucial step in answering long-standing questions about the role of CBD and THC in epilepsy treatment. Ananda Developments has highlighted that these will be the world’s first double-blind, randomized controlled trials investigating CBD and THC together for epilepsy across such a broad patient population.
If the trials prove successful, the findings could support regulatory applications to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and other authorities, potentially leading to wider NHS availability of these treatments for those with refractory epilepsy.
Current Landscape of CBD for Epilepsy
At present, the only licensed CBD medicine available through the NHS for epilepsy is Epidyolex, recommended for Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. However, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has not extended its recommendation to include other severe and treatment-resistant forms of epilepsy, citing a need for more robust evidence. These upcoming trials could provide the high-quality clinical data needed to bridge that gap.
Much-Needed Research & Hope for Families
The launch of these trials has been met with optimism by epilepsy advocacy groups. Rebekah Smith, Deputy Chief Executive at Epilepsy Action, expressed enthusiasm about the long-overdue research, emphasizing the need for more data on the safety and effectiveness of both CBD and THC.
Matt Hughes, Co-founder and Director of Medcan Family Foundation, also welcomed the trials as a vital step forward. However, he pointed out that many families have already found success with advanced cannabinoid medicines that are not included in this study. He urged the government to support pathways for licensing these more advanced formulations for wider accessibility.
Looking Ahead
As advocates for natural wellness solutions, we at CBD Oils UK are encouraged by this development. We recognize the frustration of many families who have struggled to access effective epilepsy treatments and hope these trials will lead to broader options and better outcomes. We will continue to stay informed on the latest research and keep our community updated on progress in this critical field.
If you or a loved one is affected by treatment-resistant epilepsy and are interested in CBD, always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment plan.
Stay connected with us for updates on CBD research, regulatory changes, and real-world applications that could make a difference in the lives of those battling epilepsy.