Keywords
Epilepsy
Treatment
How to Cite
Abstract
Drug-resistant epilepsy remains a significant challenge in neurology, affecting patients who do not respond to conventional treatments. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been investigated as a therapeutic alternative for these cases. This study conducted an integrative literature review to evaluate the efficacy of CBD in the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy. An integrative review was conducted using PubMed and LILACS databases, with the descriptors Cannabidiol AND Epilepsy AND Treatment. Articles published in the last five years, available in full, and addressing the efficacy of CBD in epilepsy treatment were included. Randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were prioritized. The analyzed studies demonstrated that CBD reduces seizure frequency in refractory patients, with response rates ranging from 33% to 50%. Although efficacy may decrease over time, clinical benefits remain relevant. The main reported adverse effects were diarrhea, drowsiness, and loss of appetite, usually mild to moderate. Additionally, CBD has been studied for the treatment of other neuropsychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and neurodegenerative disorders. Findings suggest that CBD is a promising alternative for drug-resistant epilepsy, particularly in children with severe epilepsy syndromes. However, challenges remain, including variability in treatment response, the need for adverse effect monitoring, and limited accessibility in Brazil. CBD regulation is still debated, requiring expanded public policies to enable its clinical use. CBD has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy, but its clinical application requires further investigation on safety and long-term effects. Increased access and clearer regulation may contribute to its adoption as an adjunct treatment in medical practice.
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