Research To Suggest Marijuana Helps Battle Seizure Disorders

KYW Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Cannabinoids or Medical Marijuana has been used in the battle against seizure disorder for over 250 years. In fact in the Victorian Era neurologist used Indian hemp to treat epilepsy.

According to a report in the New England Journal of Medicine it's about time to take a look at whether marijuana can help in the battle against seizures in the modern world. Short term side effects include impairment of memory, judgment, and motor performance and high levels are associated with psychosis and an increased risked of motor vehicle accidents.

Not only that with long-term use there is a risk of addiction. It can occur in as many as 9 percent long-term users. The biggest reason why marijuana may not be the drug of choice of seizure disorders is the fact that current studies in humans are extremely limited and no conclusions can be drawn. In addition there are several medications that are being used widely to treat seizure disorder.