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This activity focuses on cannabidiol's (CBD) role in managing refractory epilepsy. Participants will explore indications, actions, and contraindications pertinent to CBD's efficacy in managing Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. This discussion also thoroughly reviews CBD's mechanism of action, adverse event profile, and ongoing research trials involving this drug. Additionally, understanding CBD's pharmacology helps healthcare professionals to tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs. Enhancing patient care and optimizing outcomes in epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety disorders requires emphasis on the critical role of the interprofessional healthcare team in overseeing CBD therapy. Objectives: Identify the indications for cannabidiol. Determine the importance of monitoring patients receiving cannabidiol therapy. Assess contraindications and other relevant factors before prescribing cannabidiol. Implement effective collaboration and communication among interprofessional team members to improve outcomes and treatment efficacy for patients who might benefit from cannabidiol therapy. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Reports of required ventilation support for children and older adults after ingesting excessive cannabis amounts have been documented.[50] CBD is associated with worsening respiratory depression in patients taking other respiratory-depressing drugs, such as opioids and benzodiazepines. In these scenarios, respiratory support is the mainstay of treatment; there is no antidote to CBD or cannabis toxicity.[11][51][47][50]

FDA approval of CBD for the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and Tuberous sclerosis complex has significantly improved the lives of patients and their families. Pediatric neurologists should be consulted for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. Due to CBD's adverse effects (particularly on the liver), regular liver function monitoring is recommended. Pharmacists should perform medication reconciliation, report any significant drug interactions, and educate caregivers on potential adverse effects. Nurses are vital in educating patients about proper dosing, monitoring, and providing support throughout treatment. CBD's therapeutic potential may be far more widespread than initially believed; researchers and clinicians should continue to evaluate and identify CBD's uses. Due to differing state laws regarding marijuana, social workers and other relevant healthcare professionals must help caregivers and patients understand that CBD is legal and is not the part of cannabis that makes its users high. Proper administration of CBD has demonstrated a reduction in seizure frequency in these syndromes, which are notoriously difficult to treat. An interprofessional team approach and open communication between clinicians (MDs, DOs, NPs, PAs), pharmacists, neurologists, and nurses are necessary to optimize outcomes for patients on cannabidiol therapy. CBD reduces seizures and increases seizure control. In particular, CBD, used as an adjunct therapy in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome without seizure control by anti-epileptics, significantly reduces seizure frequency.[10] CBD is known to cause hepatotoxicity; periodic liver function testing (LFTs) is necessary.[47]