Epilepsija je stanje v katerem postanejo določene možganske celice nenormalno občutljive in se spontano praznijo na nekontrolirani način, kar povzroča napad. V grand mal-u ali generaliziranem napadu padavice se nenormalne celice nahajajo na obeh straneh možganov, njihovo praznjenje pa povzroča krče. V apsans napadih povzroča možgansko praznjenje pogosto izgubo zavesti, ne pa tudi krčev. Parcialni (delni) napadi so posledica nenormalnega praznjenja v nekem izoliranem delu možganov in lahko povzroče spremembo stanja zavesti. Parcialni napadi s spremembo v stanju zavesti so vzrok poškodbe temporalnega in frontalnega režnja možganske skorje. V preteklosti so bili znani kot psihomotorni napadi, ker vključujejo motorično aktivnost (pačenje, običajni so zaporedni premiki ust in rok). Ko se pretirano vzburjenje celic omeji na zelo majhno področje, lahko ima prizadeti neobičajen občutek že videnega, vrtoglavice, strahu in lahko vonja čuden vonj brez izvora. To izkušnjo lahko spremljajo zaporedni parcialni napadi, ali pa tudi ne.
Epilepsija se zdravi v glavnem z zdravili proti krčem, med katerimi so karbamazepin (Tegatol), fenitoin (Dilantin), fenobarbiton, primidon (Mysoline), natrijev valproat (Depakine, Apilepsin) in drugi. Ta zdravila pomagajo približno 70% bolnikom, drugih 10% poišče pomoč v kombinaciji teh zdravil ali operacijo, ki pa bolezni ne odpravi.
Žariščni napadi in padavica temporalnega režnja slabo reagirajo na ta zdravila. Poleg tega pa imajo zdravila proti krčem mnogo potencialno resnih stranskih učinkov kot so mehčanje kosti, anemija, otekanje dlesni, dvojni vid, izguba las, glavobol, slabost, zmanjšanje libida, impotenca, depresija, okvara jeter, psihoza, itd.
Predoziranje ali preobčutljivostne reakcije lahko privedejo do izgube koordinacije gibov, kome ali celo smrti.
Čeprav se za antikonvulzivno delovanje konoplje ve že zelo dolgo in so ga odkrivali v 19. stoletju, se je uporaba v namene terapije v zadnjih stotih letih zelo zmanjšala.
Eden od redkih izjem je kratek članek, ki sta ga napisala J.P.Davis in H.H.Ramsey in je bil objavljen leta 1949.
Proučevala sta delovanje dveh sorodnikov tetrahidrokanabinola na nekaj hospitaliziranih otrokih s težkimi primeri grand mal padavice, ki se niso dali primerno kontrolirati s standardnimi zdravili proti krčem, fenobarbitonom in fenitoinom.
Pri treh otrocih se stanje ni poslabšalo, pri četrtemu se je stanje skoraj popravilo, peti pa je popolnoma ozdravel.
Ugodni učinki konoplje se kažejo predvsem pri dveh pomembnih oblikah epilepsije in sicer pri grand mal epilepsiji in parcialnih (delnih) napadih.
Številni bolniki z grand mal epilepsijo poročajo, da lahko popolnoma odpravijo napade s kajenjem konoplje, včasih v kombinaciji s predpisanimi zdravili, včasih pa brez njih.
Konoplja je nedvomno zdravilo za epilepsijo. Tipično ni uporabna za t.i. petit mal, obstaja celo dokaz, da lahko CBD prepreči učinkovitost drugih zdravil uporabljenih za zdravljenje petit mal.
Poleg tega lahko THC izzove grand mal napade pri bolniku z epilepsijo v preteklosti.
Epileptiki, ki uporabljajo kanabinoide, naj bi bili previdni pri uporabi oralnega THC-ja.
Tisti, ki uporabljajo kanabinoide naj bodo pozorni, saj lahko postanejo bolj dovzetni za napade, kadar se odpovedo zdravljenju.
Ker nadzorovane raziskave še niso mogoče, je nemogoče reči, koliko bolnikov z epilepsijo se lahko zdravi s konopljo. Iz različnih primerov vemo, da nekaterim bolnikom pomaga le konoplja in nič drugega. Poleg tega pa tem posameznikom ni potrebno prenašati toksičnosti in neugodnih stranskih pojavov zdravil. Mnogo epileptikov se neuspešno zdravi s pomočjo treh ali štirih zdravil hkrati, kar oteži resnost toksičnih učinkov.
Za nekatere bolnike je edinstvena vrednost konoplje popolnoma jasna, ko se pokaže celotna kvaliteta življenja kot tudi primernost kontrole napadov.
Literatura:
Grinspoon L., Bakalar J.:" Marihuana zabranjeni lijek", Zagreb 1997
Rosenthal Ed, Gieringer D.: "Marijuana Medical Handbook", 1997
Ames FR. (1986) Anticonvulsant effect of cannabidiol. South African Medical Journal 69:14.
Consroe, P.F., Wood, G.C. & Buchsbaum, H. (1975) Anticonvulsant Nature of Marihuana Smoking. J.American Medical Association 234 306-307
Cunha, J.M., Carlini, E.A., Pereira, A.E. et al. (1980) Chronic Administration of Cannabidiol to Healthy Volunteers and Epileptic Patients. Pharmacology 21 175-185
Davis, J P., & Ramsey, H.H. (1949) Antiepileptic Action of Marijuana-active Substances. Federation Proceedings 8 284-285
Institute of Medicine (1999) Marijuana and medicine: Assessing the science base. National Academy Press
National Institutes of Health (1997) Workshop on the Medical Utility of Marijuana, Report to the Director, Washington, D.C.
Ng et al. (1990) Illicit drug use and the risk of new-onset seizures, American Journal of Epidemiology 132: 47-57.
Trembly B. Sherman M. (1990) Double-blind clinical study of cannabidiol as a secondary anticonvulsant. Marijuana '90 International Conference on Cannabis and Cannabinoids. Kolympari, Crete, July 8-11, 1990
Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
Scientific evidence
Unfortunately there has been relatively little research done into the treatment of epilepsy with cannabis-based medication. Most evidence comes from anecdotal reports and studies on individual cases.
In 1949 Davis & Ramsey administered THC to 5 institutionalized children who were not responding to the standard treatment (phenobarbital and phenoytin). One became entirely free of seizures, one almost completely free of seizures, while the other three did no worse than before.
In 1975 Consroe et al. described the case of young man whose standard treatment (phenobarbital and phenytoin), didn't control his seizures. When he began to smoke cannabis socially he had no seizures. However when he took only cannabis the seizures returned. They concluded that 'marihuana may possess an anti-convulsant effect in human epilepsy'.
Three controlled trials have investigated the anti-epilepsy potential of cannabidiol. In each, cannabidiol was given in oral form to sufferers of generalised grand mail or focal seizures.
Cunha et al (1980) reported a study on 16 grand mal patients who were not doing well on conventional medication. They recieved their regular medication and either 200-300mg cannabidiol or a placebo. Of the patients who received the cannabis product, 3 showed complete improvement, 2 partial, 2 minor, while 1 remained unchanged. The only unwanted effect was mild sedation. Of the patients who received the placebo, 1 improved and 7 remained unchanged.
Ames (1986) reported a less successful study in which 12 epileptic patients were given 200-300mg of cannabidiol per day, in addition to standard antiepileptic drugs. There seemed to be no significant improvement in seizure frequency. This is a finding that was replicated in a report by Trembly et al (1990). However, Trembly performed an open trial with a single patient who was given 900-1200mg of cannabidiol a day for 10 months. This trial showed a more positive result - seizure frequency was markedly reduced in the patient.
It must be stated that these trials are all over too small a population for any general statements about efficacy to be made.
A study by Ng (1990) involved a larger population of 308 epileptic patients who had been admitted to hospital after their first seizure. They were compared to a control population of 294 patients who had not had seizures, and it was found that using cannabis seemed to reduce the likelihood of having a seizure. However this study was criticised in an Institute of Medicine report (1999) which claimed it was 'weak', as 'the study did not include measures of health status prior to hospital admissions...and differences in their health status might have influenced their drug use' rather than the other way round.
Finally, there is some weak anatomical evidence of a relationship between cannabinoids and epilepsy. There is a dense concentration of CB1-type receptors in the hippocampus and amygdala areas of the brain. These two regions of the brain are known to be involved somehow in seizures.
Unfortunately there has been relatively little research done into the treatment of epilepsy with cannabis-based medication. Most evidence comes from anecdotal reports and studies on individual cases.
In 1949 Davis & Ramsey administered THC to 5 institutionalized children who were not responding to the standard treatment (phenobarbital and phenoytin). One became entirely free of seizures, one almost completely free of seizures, while the other three did no worse than before.
In 1975 Consroe et al. described the case of young man whose standard treatment (phenobarbital and phenytoin), didn't control his seizures. When he began to smoke cannabis socially he had no seizures. However when he took only cannabis the seizures returned. They concluded that 'marihuana may possess an anti-convulsant effect in human epilepsy'.
Three controlled trials have investigated the anti-epilepsy potential of cannabidiol. In each, cannabidiol was given in oral form to sufferers of generalised grand mail or focal seizures.
Cunha et al (1980) reported a study on 16 grand mal patients who were not doing well on conventional medication. They recieved their regular medication and either 200-300mg cannabidiol or a placebo. Of the patients who received the cannabis product, 3 showed complete improvement, 2 partial, 2 minor, while 1 remained unchanged. The only unwanted effect was mild sedation. Of the patients who received the placebo, 1 improved and 7 remained unchanged.
Ames (1986) reported a less successful study in which 12 epileptic patients were given 200-300mg of cannabidiol per day, in addition to standard antiepileptic drugs. There seemed to be no significant improvement in seizure frequency. This is a finding that was replicated in a report by Trembly et al (1990). However, Trembly performed an open trial with a single patient who was given 900-1200mg of cannabidiol a day for 10 months. This trial showed a more positive result - seizure frequency was markedly reduced in the patient.
It must be stated that these trials are all over too small a population for any general statements about efficacy to be made.
A study by Ng (1990) involved a larger population of 308 epileptic patients who had been admitted to hospital after their first seizure. They were compared to a control population of 294 patients who had not had seizures, and it was found that using cannabis seemed to reduce the likelihood of having a seizure. However this study was criticised in an Institute of Medicine report (1999) which claimed it was 'weak', as 'the study did not include measures of health status prior to hospital admissions...and differences in their health status might have influenced their drug use' rather than the other way round.
Finally, there is some weak anatomical evidence of a relationship between cannabinoids and epilepsy. There is a dense concentration of CB1-type receptors in the hippocampus and amygdala areas of the brain. These two regions of the brain are known to be involved somehow in seizures.
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
User comments 2001-2006 (vir:http://www.ukcia.org/medical/epilepsy.php)
1.
Before I started smoking cannabis, I had an epileptic fit that almost killed me AND i was on prescription pills at the time. But after finding out the medical purposes cannabis has I started smoking it. I have been smoking for 2 years now and have not had an epileptic fit since, nor have I been feeling the side effects of the pills that I am on (side effects were tiredness, anger, and other mild effects.) I am now 20 and currently a student in university.
2.
I began smoking cannabis 4 months ago and I haven't suffered from a fit since. The drugs the hospital were offering me would make me sleepy all the time I had to turn them down I'm 17 doing my A-Levels I can't afford to be sleepy. Having to live in fear of waking up to another fit was numbing especially hen the doctor told me there is a small risk I could stop breathing and die! Thanks to Cannabis I now live with out fear of having another fit and can study without been tired.
3.
My seizures started when I was about 13. They were under control until I had my kids. (about 14 years ago) Then they started up again even worse, so I tried every med out there, even had operations with no luck. A couple of years ago my doc said to try pot because he knows it works and the meds I'm on were already at an overdose! So since I already had smoked some when I was a kid I figured why not. It's the best thing that ever happened! Whenever seizures start hitting I just smoke it and they stop right away! Whether it's legal or not I won't stop it because it's worked better then any med I ever did! And I tried all the meds out there! So now if they make it legal my life would be complete!
4.
I started smoking as a teenager for kicks, I enjoyed it and continued to smoke it until I fell ill at 18yrs old. I began to get cluster migraines accompanied by severe nausea; I'm unable to take medication for it I get so ill, all I can do is hide under the covers. One day I thought I'd see if I
could smoke during one of these migraines, and what do you know - the nausea subsided sufficiently to be able to take my medication. Now whenever I feel a migraine coming on I have a smoke, and often the migraine will subside. If I smoke two or three times a day I seem to be able to avoid the huge clusters that used to dominate my life. My epilepsy is certainly helped by cannabis, my seizures are greatly reduced and I seem to be able to keep control of certain seizure types before they happen if I have a smoke. I take medication for this as well, but nothing seems to be a total cure, marijuana allows me to take control of the illness. My trigeminal neuralgia (neural pain in the side of the face) is intense and comes on very suddenly. Medication is useless as the pain is over in ten or twenty mins. The pain is almost unbearable but to be able to have a smoke is a sure fire way of hitting the pain hard and quickly. I injured my back after a fall down a full flight of stairs. As a result of the immobility caused by the injury more muscles have wasted in my back leading to a constant straining of my back and a great deal of pain. My pills alone do not kill the pain, but when combined with marijuana I get relief and can do things normally again. All in all marijuana is my wonder drug, I do not need to take as many opiates and deal with their side effects, I can eat well as it helps nausea, I can sleep well and my life is good. When I run out I get an
increase in all my symptoms and life becomes very difficult. Cannabis needs to be legalised for medical use, more people need access to this drug without fear of criminal proceedings and a permanent criminal record.
5.
When I found out I had it my ex wife made stop smoking gear as she said it might have something to do with it. After we split up in Feb this year I started smoking it again and my god have my fits slowed down. I'm not for one min saying that it stops u having fits but they are not happening as much as they did.
6.
Cannabis sativa helps to control my tonic-clonic or 'Grand-mal' seizures better than anything else.
7.
I started having seizures when I was 16 and I really never could find a cure for it. I was having them five, six, seven times a week and eventually it became a big problem when I got to University. When I got to school I meet some kids who smoked cannabis (for fun) and after hearing some rumours that it might help with epilepsy I decided to give it a try. Now I try to smoke once every couple of days and ever since I started, I've only had one seizure in nine months. So I guess the stuff really works for my type of epilepsy at least.
8.
I had my first seizure when I was 16. I have been on many seizure medications and they don’t even stop the seizures completely....I still have breakthrough seizures, despite being on 2 pills 3 times a day. When I’m done having my seizure, my legs and arms are aching, sometimes even my head
throbs from it hitting the floor. I am usually sore for days....but I found that if I smoked a little marijuana after a seizure, my pain is alleviated greatly, and I can actually relax so that my body can get back to normal quicker. I'm not a "pothead" (regular smoker), I don’t smoke it regularly....but when I have seizures, this stuff helps me out.... It should not be illegal if it's helping...
9.
I took my first grand mal seizure when I was 17. I had been smoking cannabis before that happened but had been taking petit mals for years before that. Cannabis is the only thing that seems to ease the pain in my joints after a seizure and I use it to relax. The side effects of my prescription
pills include insomnia and it helps to have a couple of joints before I go to bed. I can see the point of why cannabis is illegal but if it's helping people who suffer different types of conditions, I don’t see how its so bad. I
have never taken any other drug and never intend to but I do enjoy cannabis. The fact that cannabis alone is not addictive makes it that bit better. It has been said that cannabis can reverse the effects of an on-coming seizure. I don't see how the government want to ban something that
can be used in aid of a condition when people could be taking the pill form and not smoking it and there has never been any record of anyone dying of an overdose of it. People are just going to do it anyway. As much as no recreational drug is safe, it's not really as dangerous as it's made out to be. I know people who smoke it to help their arthritis and they say it helps as well. I would be well up for it to be legalised for medical purpose and hope it does.
10.
I have had to use cannabis for relief and alteration of symptomotology of multiple diseases. Without it, my body would have been unable to maintain itself effectively against the epilepsy and subsequent brain damage as
evidenced by the scoliosis that I have had to be treated for three times so far. I am looking for people who use it for post viral menigitis symptoms; if you are out there please respond in any way.
11.
I’m an eighteen year old female, I’ve had epilepsy since early puberty. During my second year of college, seizures became more frequent and then life became more stressful. things were getting a bit unbearable! I was losing confidence in going out in public for fear of having seizures. A lot of my friends had smoked cannabis on a regular basis, after researching into what could help control some of my most unbearable seizures, I found that people with my condition found smoking cannabis was
a solution, it helped ease most of the over-activeness of the nerves. I’m a one-joint a day smoker now (except when the 'odd' college party comes around :S ) I’m finding I can concentrate on my studies and I don’t fear going to sleep
as much as I used to (hence, highly active night-time seizures) my seizure barely even occur. I’ve dropped my level of prescribed medication. I think it would be so amazing if there was something out there that meant
there was an easier and safer way to obtain cannabis. I know it’s a very controversial subject. I also know the majority of opinions from the students and tutors in my college, sway towards the legalisation of this wonderful vegetable. I also know, I’d rather sit in a room occupied by happy stoners, than spend a night with a few temperamental alcoholics. we all know the effects of alcohol. Do we all know the weird and wonderful ways of cannabis???
12.
I have had epilepsy since the age of 15. Now I am 35 years old. I have two academic degrees in different European countries. I had problems from epilepsy nearly every morning. I smoke cannabis every day for 3 years now
(illegally, of course). I LIVE MY LIFE WITHOUT FEAR OF NEXT MORNING!!! I am almost healed! I have problems from epilepsy may be two times a year. And cannabis helps to survive the depression after convulsions rather easy!! I am happy at least for this moment. Isn't that all we have? I am
successfully working academic and administrative work. I have family. Smoking is criminal in Latvia, so I live a partly criminal life. Isn't that exciting (or humiliating)? I am still trying to start to grow it at home. But
without success yet. Sincerely Yours ... (unfortunately anonymous).
13.
I am 27 years old and was diagnosed with epilepsy six years ago. For five years I took 500 mg of Dilantin daily and happened to smoke a little pot recreationally. I don’t drink or smoke otherwise. After five years of taking the pills I learned that cannabis may be able to control my seizures
completely. I brought it to the attention of my neurologist and he said that he already had a few patients on the medical marijuana program here in Oregon. So to make a long story short, I am seizure free and completely free
of pills. I smoke less than a joint a day and not even everyday and I have no seizures. I grow my own medicine legally and anyone out there with epilepsy that thinks cannabis may help them; beware, it’s not for everyone but
it works great for me and many others.
14.
Since being diagnosed over 10 years ago with epilepsy, I have had my levels of Epilum and Lamictal constantly increased-that was until I started using cannabis on a daily basis. I have found that the only thing that stops me having seizures is to combine all 3 together, as most people
with epilepsy know, everyone is different, and the symptoms vary from person to person. I have even had one epileptologist tell me that if I have a friend that I can obtain cannabis through, that may be of assistance- he was right - it sure works (for me anyway). When I asked him about using cannabis for medical use, his reply was that
being a doctor, he cannot condone smoking in any form, but eating "hash cakes" or the like would be o.k- Just don't tell anyone! Modern medicine is an amazing field, however, the researchers tend to forget that the drugs they design will eventually be used by people-not just lab rats, and I, have had some terrible side-effects over the years from prescription drugs-which do not go away, the only side-effect I seem to have with cannabis is that I get hungry at about 11:00 at night!!! This plant has been used throughout history in many different parts of the
world. It(in my opinion)is only because of the united states of America and their war on drugs that we are suffering, if you didn't know, by the way, the Du Pont family(who had family in power in the 1930's)outlawed hemp/cannabis and all other derivatives to benefit their own cotton fields. The world should not be bullied by the American government into letting them control the growth of a plant that was around even before they were. Sorry to get all political, however it is them who we have to thank.
15.
Smoking cannabis helps tremendously with my mental attitude to being sick, as well as keeping me eating (although not always what’s best for me...lol). I have a lot a back pain, and being stoned makes everything more bearable...after all, isn't that what a drug is supposed to do? Is that what our opponents hate about us? That we have found a way to make
our lives bearable?...that would be sad.
16.
I am an adult male, 32yrs. of age that has been dealing with
grand mal seizures for a total of 12yrs. now. I have been gathering info. to present to my neurologist in hopes of persuading him to approve me for medical marijuana use. I have been rejected by two Dr.'s in the past and now am on my 3rd. With only 6 neurologists in the state of Alaska - I fear that I will soon run out of options. I have used cannabis for some time now, but I am constantly concerned with the legality of consuming a controlled substance. As an alternative herbal supplement used in addition to prescribed medications, I can attest to its effectiveness. However, I am also concerned with my support of the black market in the U.S. and the inflated prices that one must pay to procure such a substance. If anyone has any info. that may help me in my quest to prove the validity to the medical community; or just words of wisdom from one human to another - it would be greatly appreciated. To all others that are dealing with
epilepsy; stand tall - be strong - take control!!
17.
ESPAÑOL
Soy un estudiante de Ingenieria en computacion en el 3 año de mi carrera. he sufrido de Epilepsia en su menor grado (si se puede decir) o de una Disritmia Cerebral focalizada en el lobulo izquierdo. Fui diagnosticado con esta enfermedad despues de un "ataque" por sobredosis de bebidas alcoholicas hace alrededor de 7 años. Antes de haber sido diagnosticado ya era fumador de cannabis sativa (mariguana),pero inmediatamente despues de haber sido diagnosticado y medicado deje el uso de cannabis por miedo a efectos indeseables. Luego de haber sufrido todos los efectos
secundarios,tales como: falta de sueño , falta de apetito, mareos, nauseas, etc de la droga medicada ( CARBAMACEPINA ) comence de nuevo ,Conjuntamente, el uso de la droga medicada y la Cannabis .. tengo alrededor de 4 años desde que retome el "consumo" de cannabis, en estos momentos me considero un fumador activo, mi edad en este momento es de 24 años
y puedo decir veridicamente que la cannabis me ha ayudado en mi vida diaria. Yo no puedo decir que ya no tengo epilepsia por que seria una gran mentira, pero muchos de los efectos secundarios que solo el que esta enfermo tiene que
soportar y solo el que esta enfermo tiene que sufrir , han sido diariamente calmados con mi dosis de cannabis..
lamentablemente es solo mi opinion, ningun doctor me recomendo usar cannabis, ningun estudio serio me avala lo que digo, Pero aun asi mi vida diaria es mas facil de vivir gracias la cannabis.. LEGALICEN LA hierba..
ENGLISH
I am a student of Ingenieria in computation in the 3 year of my career I have suffered of Epilepsy in its smaller degree (if it is possible to be said) or of a focused Cerebral Disritmia in left lobule.. I was diagnosed with this disease after of an "attack" by an alcoholics drink overdose it was around 7 years ago. Before to be diagnosed i already was a
smoker of cannabis (WEED), but immediately after of been diagnosed and medicated i quit the use of cannabis by fear to undesirable effects. After i had undergone all the indirect effect, such as: lack of dream, lack of appetite, dizziness, , etc of the medicated drug (CARBAMACEPIN) start over ,again, Jointly, the use of the medicada drug and the Cannabis.. I have around 4 years since i retakes the "consumption" of cannabis, at the moment I consider myself as an active smoker, my age at this moment is 24 years
old and I can veridicaly say that the cannabis had helped me in my daily life. I cannot say that no longer I have epilepsy cause that will be a great lie, but many of the indirect effect that single the one that the patient must support and single the one who this patient must suffer, daily has been calmed with my dose of cannabis.. lamentably it´s my opinion , NO doctor had recommended me to use cannabis, none serious study guarantees to me what I say, But thats the way my daily life is even easier to live thanks to the cannabiss Legalice the herb.
18.
For many years, I suffered from blackouts,severe migraine,etc. My GP referred me to hospital who spent 3 years trying to find the cause. They put me on all sorts of tablets to help control the blackouts & migraines. Even though I was taking the tablets, I still used to get the attacks. Then I started smoking cannabis, after that I didn`t get severe migraines let alone blackouts. I went to the hospital to see my Neurologist, who finally told me that I have a Brain Tumor in my left superior pontine region. I told him about the cannabis and how it has stopped my migraines and blackouts. He wasn`t amazed by what I had told him. He sent a letter to my GP which tells him that I should carry on smoking cannabis, but not mix the tablets with the cannabis.
19.
I have been chronically sick and disabled for around 9 years. I fought for 3 years to get a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome recognised by doctors, benefits etc. The symptoms include fibromyalgia and joint problems (in more ways than one). My local medical practice does not treat drug abusers like me, I have to make a 55 mile round trip through rural Shropshire to get my script. I have severe mobility problems. DLA High rate mobility. The only smoke on offer here is soap bar and skunk I cannot afford. The GPs include condoning the use of illegal substances on their taboo medical conditions so the only thing I can produce is my original DLA award details which contains diagnoses from 4 doctors (2 Consultants). Can anyone tell me if this is sufficient evidence to become a member of any medical marijuana club? Thanks for any help.
20.
My name is Marcus Davies. I am a well-qualified electronics designer. I have been unable to work fully for the last 10 years because of the disabling illness’ I suffer. In 1983 I was diagnosed as suffering from the symptoms of gran-mal epilepsy. This disabling illness prevented me for pursuing my career in the field of electronics. All legal medications prescribed to me failed to work and I spent 5 years wasting away suffering from both illness and treatment. In 1988, I decided to try a method of treatment recommended to me by a Doctor, who wishes to remain nameless. This treatment involved the use of a substance contrary to the Misuse Of Drugs Act 1971. The doctor advised me that this substance was illegal and I may loose my liberty if found using or possessing it. This substance is; of course, the Class B controlled substance, cannabis. In the following pages I hope to explain to the committee my reasons for trying this medication, continuing use of this medication and the many reasons this medication should be legally available in the United Kingdom. I have been actively involved in the campaign to remove cannabis from the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 since 1989. Prior to September 1988, I had gran-mal epileptic seizures daily. These seizures rendered me useless. I use to pray that seizures occurred in the late evening, which gave me the night to recover and during the following day I could behave as a normal person. The medications used to treat these seizures were either useless, in the case of Epanutin (Phenytoin), or too sedating to function in the case of Tegretol(Carbamazapine). I also found that the use of the latter medication inhibited the immune system resulting in illnesses of infection in various parts of the body damaged during seizure i.e. huge mouth ulcers. I have scaring of the tongue and many scars of the limbs damaged during seizure. During September 1988, I purchased a quantity of cannabis resin. The substance weighed 1/16th oz. and cost the equivalent of £7.50. It was labelled soap, which I later discovered was because of its shape and was in fact Moroccan hashish. I was instructed by the suppler, a mature lady, that the quantity would be adequate to produce 10 cannabis cigarettes (joints). Ergo each joint contained 175mg. Within an hour of consumption I felt like I had not felt for the last five years. Day by day I released that I was getting better. Over a period of a week I withdrew from Tegretol and treated my epilepsy solely with cannabis. I have had few (<5) seizures while I have smoked cannabis over this 10-year period. In July of 1997, Lancashire Constabulary destroyed my front door. Acting on “Information Received” Burnley & Pendle Magistrates’ Court had issued a warrant to search my home for Amphetamines, Ecstasy and Cannabis. I have never denied smoking cannabis however; the other two are of no interest to me. For six day after the warrant was served on my home I abstained from the consumption of cannabis, during this time I suffered seizures on an hourly basis climaxing on the sixth day when I was admitted to hospital. After a brief discussion with the doctor about my case history I was again unofficially advised to keep taking the cannabis medicine and keep my head down and my mouth shut. Until now this is what I’ve done. Although epilepsy is the main reason for taking cannabis, I have discovered its therapeutic uses extend even further. I am also a diabetic and recently underwent laser treatment on the eyes for retinopathy. One of the Doctors that administered this treatment replied after questions, that cannabis reduces ocular pressure and would therefore ease the pain of scaring of the lasered eye. He also explained that it would cure the majority of glaucoma cases he sees. I can testify that after laser therapy on the right eye with normal paracetamol pain relief, it hurt. Laser therapy on the left eye hurt during administration however after smoking cannabis the healing process was painless. Both eyes were given the same quantity of laser treatment 8 weeks apart. On the subject of diabetes, cannabis is very effective at encouraging me to eat at regular times. This phenomena, known as the “munchies”, must be extremely useful in the treatment of patients with wasting diseases and has proved to stimulate my appetite often. During periods of ketoacidosis, and excess of sugar and therefore a shortage of insulin, many diabetics violently vomit. I can testify that during these periods cannabis smoke is the only treatment that is 100% effective. The Maxalon tables do however work, but are often too difficult to keep down.
21.
I have had Epilepsy for 6 years and the medicines I have had to take are many. I have had to take tegrotol, depakote, lamictal, topomax, and zarontin. I am now taking neurontin, mysolin, and zonegran. I have found that if I smoke marijuana in conjunction with my medicine, I don't seize anymore. The problem is it's illegal. I found that if I take my morning medicine, then instead of my evening medicine smoke marijuana I won't seize. If I take my normal medicine morning and night I have seizures almost everyday.
22.
In 1980 I had my right thumb torn off in an accident, for which I underwent 14 hours of general anesthetic to have it re-attached. All went as well as expected, I got my thumb back but a few months later started having grand mal seizures; bad one's. I'd have them about one or two a month. Medications (dilatin, tegretol, etc) helped reduce it to a few a year, but these are toxic medications. I have to visit my doctor every month to check the level of the medications in my blood stream. The have also caused nautiousness, diziness and other unpleasant effects. I smoked marijuana infrequently throughout my teen years but was also taking prescribed medications. I finally got sick of the blood tests and medications that didn't work, I refused to let these seizures run my life so I gradually stopped all medications. After this, having marijuana on occasion I noticed I didn't have any of what I call "bad days". I was 16 at the time of the accident and I'm 34 now. Over these years, having a "medication" that's available infrequently, I've been able to notice a definite difference during the months with, and months without and one thing remains contant; if I smoke marijuana, I don't have seizures, guaranteed. I have a real job, real friends, I'm not a drug dealer, I don't drink and I don't beleive kids should be stoned at school. I don't have to, at a minutes notice, wonder which hospital I'll wake up in with my head split open from the fall. I have joints that pop out of their socket from the physical havok that is wreaked from these things, and I don't feel I should go to jail for not wanting to endure it. I smoke pot daily, have a normal life, and am constantly complimented on my work by customers where I hold a respectable job. I've seen both a family doctor and a neurologist over the years. I mentioned this to my neurologist once, he could do nothing but listen and nod. I wanted to discuss it with him but I realize it's illegal for him to do anything but sit and listen. I wouldn't go as far as saying it's a cure or that it's for everybody but for me it works, 100%.
1.
Before I started smoking cannabis, I had an epileptic fit that almost killed me AND i was on prescription pills at the time. But after finding out the medical purposes cannabis has I started smoking it. I have been smoking for 2 years now and have not had an epileptic fit since, nor have I been feeling the side effects of the pills that I am on (side effects were tiredness, anger, and other mild effects.) I am now 20 and currently a student in university.
2.
I began smoking cannabis 4 months ago and I haven't suffered from a fit since. The drugs the hospital were offering me would make me sleepy all the time I had to turn them down I'm 17 doing my A-Levels I can't afford to be sleepy. Having to live in fear of waking up to another fit was numbing especially hen the doctor told me there is a small risk I could stop breathing and die! Thanks to Cannabis I now live with out fear of having another fit and can study without been tired.
3.
My seizures started when I was about 13. They were under control until I had my kids. (about 14 years ago) Then they started up again even worse, so I tried every med out there, even had operations with no luck. A couple of years ago my doc said to try pot because he knows it works and the meds I'm on were already at an overdose! So since I already had smoked some when I was a kid I figured why not. It's the best thing that ever happened! Whenever seizures start hitting I just smoke it and they stop right away! Whether it's legal or not I won't stop it because it's worked better then any med I ever did! And I tried all the meds out there! So now if they make it legal my life would be complete!
4.
I started smoking as a teenager for kicks, I enjoyed it and continued to smoke it until I fell ill at 18yrs old. I began to get cluster migraines accompanied by severe nausea; I'm unable to take medication for it I get so ill, all I can do is hide under the covers. One day I thought I'd see if I
could smoke during one of these migraines, and what do you know - the nausea subsided sufficiently to be able to take my medication. Now whenever I feel a migraine coming on I have a smoke, and often the migraine will subside. If I smoke two or three times a day I seem to be able to avoid the huge clusters that used to dominate my life. My epilepsy is certainly helped by cannabis, my seizures are greatly reduced and I seem to be able to keep control of certain seizure types before they happen if I have a smoke. I take medication for this as well, but nothing seems to be a total cure, marijuana allows me to take control of the illness. My trigeminal neuralgia (neural pain in the side of the face) is intense and comes on very suddenly. Medication is useless as the pain is over in ten or twenty mins. The pain is almost unbearable but to be able to have a smoke is a sure fire way of hitting the pain hard and quickly. I injured my back after a fall down a full flight of stairs. As a result of the immobility caused by the injury more muscles have wasted in my back leading to a constant straining of my back and a great deal of pain. My pills alone do not kill the pain, but when combined with marijuana I get relief and can do things normally again. All in all marijuana is my wonder drug, I do not need to take as many opiates and deal with their side effects, I can eat well as it helps nausea, I can sleep well and my life is good. When I run out I get an
increase in all my symptoms and life becomes very difficult. Cannabis needs to be legalised for medical use, more people need access to this drug without fear of criminal proceedings and a permanent criminal record.
5.
When I found out I had it my ex wife made stop smoking gear as she said it might have something to do with it. After we split up in Feb this year I started smoking it again and my god have my fits slowed down. I'm not for one min saying that it stops u having fits but they are not happening as much as they did.
6.
Cannabis sativa helps to control my tonic-clonic or 'Grand-mal' seizures better than anything else.
7.
I started having seizures when I was 16 and I really never could find a cure for it. I was having them five, six, seven times a week and eventually it became a big problem when I got to University. When I got to school I meet some kids who smoked cannabis (for fun) and after hearing some rumours that it might help with epilepsy I decided to give it a try. Now I try to smoke once every couple of days and ever since I started, I've only had one seizure in nine months. So I guess the stuff really works for my type of epilepsy at least.
8.
I had my first seizure when I was 16. I have been on many seizure medications and they don’t even stop the seizures completely....I still have breakthrough seizures, despite being on 2 pills 3 times a day. When I’m done having my seizure, my legs and arms are aching, sometimes even my head
throbs from it hitting the floor. I am usually sore for days....but I found that if I smoked a little marijuana after a seizure, my pain is alleviated greatly, and I can actually relax so that my body can get back to normal quicker. I'm not a "pothead" (regular smoker), I don’t smoke it regularly....but when I have seizures, this stuff helps me out.... It should not be illegal if it's helping...
9.
I took my first grand mal seizure when I was 17. I had been smoking cannabis before that happened but had been taking petit mals for years before that. Cannabis is the only thing that seems to ease the pain in my joints after a seizure and I use it to relax. The side effects of my prescription
pills include insomnia and it helps to have a couple of joints before I go to bed. I can see the point of why cannabis is illegal but if it's helping people who suffer different types of conditions, I don’t see how its so bad. I
have never taken any other drug and never intend to but I do enjoy cannabis. The fact that cannabis alone is not addictive makes it that bit better. It has been said that cannabis can reverse the effects of an on-coming seizure. I don't see how the government want to ban something that
can be used in aid of a condition when people could be taking the pill form and not smoking it and there has never been any record of anyone dying of an overdose of it. People are just going to do it anyway. As much as no recreational drug is safe, it's not really as dangerous as it's made out to be. I know people who smoke it to help their arthritis and they say it helps as well. I would be well up for it to be legalised for medical purpose and hope it does.
10.
I have had to use cannabis for relief and alteration of symptomotology of multiple diseases. Without it, my body would have been unable to maintain itself effectively against the epilepsy and subsequent brain damage as
evidenced by the scoliosis that I have had to be treated for three times so far. I am looking for people who use it for post viral menigitis symptoms; if you are out there please respond in any way.
11.
I’m an eighteen year old female, I’ve had epilepsy since early puberty. During my second year of college, seizures became more frequent and then life became more stressful. things were getting a bit unbearable! I was losing confidence in going out in public for fear of having seizures. A lot of my friends had smoked cannabis on a regular basis, after researching into what could help control some of my most unbearable seizures, I found that people with my condition found smoking cannabis was
a solution, it helped ease most of the over-activeness of the nerves. I’m a one-joint a day smoker now (except when the 'odd' college party comes around :S ) I’m finding I can concentrate on my studies and I don’t fear going to sleep
as much as I used to (hence, highly active night-time seizures) my seizure barely even occur. I’ve dropped my level of prescribed medication. I think it would be so amazing if there was something out there that meant
there was an easier and safer way to obtain cannabis. I know it’s a very controversial subject. I also know the majority of opinions from the students and tutors in my college, sway towards the legalisation of this wonderful vegetable. I also know, I’d rather sit in a room occupied by happy stoners, than spend a night with a few temperamental alcoholics. we all know the effects of alcohol. Do we all know the weird and wonderful ways of cannabis???
12.
I have had epilepsy since the age of 15. Now I am 35 years old. I have two academic degrees in different European countries. I had problems from epilepsy nearly every morning. I smoke cannabis every day for 3 years now
(illegally, of course). I LIVE MY LIFE WITHOUT FEAR OF NEXT MORNING!!! I am almost healed! I have problems from epilepsy may be two times a year. And cannabis helps to survive the depression after convulsions rather easy!! I am happy at least for this moment. Isn't that all we have? I am
successfully working academic and administrative work. I have family. Smoking is criminal in Latvia, so I live a partly criminal life. Isn't that exciting (or humiliating)? I am still trying to start to grow it at home. But
without success yet. Sincerely Yours ... (unfortunately anonymous).
13.
I am 27 years old and was diagnosed with epilepsy six years ago. For five years I took 500 mg of Dilantin daily and happened to smoke a little pot recreationally. I don’t drink or smoke otherwise. After five years of taking the pills I learned that cannabis may be able to control my seizures
completely. I brought it to the attention of my neurologist and he said that he already had a few patients on the medical marijuana program here in Oregon. So to make a long story short, I am seizure free and completely free
of pills. I smoke less than a joint a day and not even everyday and I have no seizures. I grow my own medicine legally and anyone out there with epilepsy that thinks cannabis may help them; beware, it’s not for everyone but
it works great for me and many others.
14.
Since being diagnosed over 10 years ago with epilepsy, I have had my levels of Epilum and Lamictal constantly increased-that was until I started using cannabis on a daily basis. I have found that the only thing that stops me having seizures is to combine all 3 together, as most people
with epilepsy know, everyone is different, and the symptoms vary from person to person. I have even had one epileptologist tell me that if I have a friend that I can obtain cannabis through, that may be of assistance- he was right - it sure works (for me anyway). When I asked him about using cannabis for medical use, his reply was that
being a doctor, he cannot condone smoking in any form, but eating "hash cakes" or the like would be o.k- Just don't tell anyone! Modern medicine is an amazing field, however, the researchers tend to forget that the drugs they design will eventually be used by people-not just lab rats, and I, have had some terrible side-effects over the years from prescription drugs-which do not go away, the only side-effect I seem to have with cannabis is that I get hungry at about 11:00 at night!!! This plant has been used throughout history in many different parts of the
world. It(in my opinion)is only because of the united states of America and their war on drugs that we are suffering, if you didn't know, by the way, the Du Pont family(who had family in power in the 1930's)outlawed hemp/cannabis and all other derivatives to benefit their own cotton fields. The world should not be bullied by the American government into letting them control the growth of a plant that was around even before they were. Sorry to get all political, however it is them who we have to thank.
15.
Smoking cannabis helps tremendously with my mental attitude to being sick, as well as keeping me eating (although not always what’s best for me...lol). I have a lot a back pain, and being stoned makes everything more bearable...after all, isn't that what a drug is supposed to do? Is that what our opponents hate about us? That we have found a way to make
our lives bearable?...that would be sad.
16.
I am an adult male, 32yrs. of age that has been dealing with
grand mal seizures for a total of 12yrs. now. I have been gathering info. to present to my neurologist in hopes of persuading him to approve me for medical marijuana use. I have been rejected by two Dr.'s in the past and now am on my 3rd. With only 6 neurologists in the state of Alaska - I fear that I will soon run out of options. I have used cannabis for some time now, but I am constantly concerned with the legality of consuming a controlled substance. As an alternative herbal supplement used in addition to prescribed medications, I can attest to its effectiveness. However, I am also concerned with my support of the black market in the U.S. and the inflated prices that one must pay to procure such a substance. If anyone has any info. that may help me in my quest to prove the validity to the medical community; or just words of wisdom from one human to another - it would be greatly appreciated. To all others that are dealing with
epilepsy; stand tall - be strong - take control!!
17.
ESPAÑOL
Soy un estudiante de Ingenieria en computacion en el 3 año de mi carrera. he sufrido de Epilepsia en su menor grado (si se puede decir) o de una Disritmia Cerebral focalizada en el lobulo izquierdo. Fui diagnosticado con esta enfermedad despues de un "ataque" por sobredosis de bebidas alcoholicas hace alrededor de 7 años. Antes de haber sido diagnosticado ya era fumador de cannabis sativa (mariguana),pero inmediatamente despues de haber sido diagnosticado y medicado deje el uso de cannabis por miedo a efectos indeseables. Luego de haber sufrido todos los efectos
secundarios,tales como: falta de sueño , falta de apetito, mareos, nauseas, etc de la droga medicada ( CARBAMACEPINA ) comence de nuevo ,Conjuntamente, el uso de la droga medicada y la Cannabis .. tengo alrededor de 4 años desde que retome el "consumo" de cannabis, en estos momentos me considero un fumador activo, mi edad en este momento es de 24 años
y puedo decir veridicamente que la cannabis me ha ayudado en mi vida diaria. Yo no puedo decir que ya no tengo epilepsia por que seria una gran mentira, pero muchos de los efectos secundarios que solo el que esta enfermo tiene que
soportar y solo el que esta enfermo tiene que sufrir , han sido diariamente calmados con mi dosis de cannabis..
lamentablemente es solo mi opinion, ningun doctor me recomendo usar cannabis, ningun estudio serio me avala lo que digo, Pero aun asi mi vida diaria es mas facil de vivir gracias la cannabis.. LEGALICEN LA hierba..
ENGLISH
I am a student of Ingenieria in computation in the 3 year of my career I have suffered of Epilepsy in its smaller degree (if it is possible to be said) or of a focused Cerebral Disritmia in left lobule.. I was diagnosed with this disease after of an "attack" by an alcoholics drink overdose it was around 7 years ago. Before to be diagnosed i already was a
smoker of cannabis (WEED), but immediately after of been diagnosed and medicated i quit the use of cannabis by fear to undesirable effects. After i had undergone all the indirect effect, such as: lack of dream, lack of appetite, dizziness, , etc of the medicated drug (CARBAMACEPIN) start over ,again, Jointly, the use of the medicada drug and the Cannabis.. I have around 4 years since i retakes the "consumption" of cannabis, at the moment I consider myself as an active smoker, my age at this moment is 24 years
old and I can veridicaly say that the cannabis had helped me in my daily life. I cannot say that no longer I have epilepsy cause that will be a great lie, but many of the indirect effect that single the one that the patient must support and single the one who this patient must suffer, daily has been calmed with my dose of cannabis.. lamentably it´s my opinion , NO doctor had recommended me to use cannabis, none serious study guarantees to me what I say, But thats the way my daily life is even easier to live thanks to the cannabiss Legalice the herb.
18.
For many years, I suffered from blackouts,severe migraine,etc. My GP referred me to hospital who spent 3 years trying to find the cause. They put me on all sorts of tablets to help control the blackouts & migraines. Even though I was taking the tablets, I still used to get the attacks. Then I started smoking cannabis, after that I didn`t get severe migraines let alone blackouts. I went to the hospital to see my Neurologist, who finally told me that I have a Brain Tumor in my left superior pontine region. I told him about the cannabis and how it has stopped my migraines and blackouts. He wasn`t amazed by what I had told him. He sent a letter to my GP which tells him that I should carry on smoking cannabis, but not mix the tablets with the cannabis.
19.
I have been chronically sick and disabled for around 9 years. I fought for 3 years to get a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome recognised by doctors, benefits etc. The symptoms include fibromyalgia and joint problems (in more ways than one). My local medical practice does not treat drug abusers like me, I have to make a 55 mile round trip through rural Shropshire to get my script. I have severe mobility problems. DLA High rate mobility. The only smoke on offer here is soap bar and skunk I cannot afford. The GPs include condoning the use of illegal substances on their taboo medical conditions so the only thing I can produce is my original DLA award details which contains diagnoses from 4 doctors (2 Consultants). Can anyone tell me if this is sufficient evidence to become a member of any medical marijuana club? Thanks for any help.
20.
My name is Marcus Davies. I am a well-qualified electronics designer. I have been unable to work fully for the last 10 years because of the disabling illness’ I suffer. In 1983 I was diagnosed as suffering from the symptoms of gran-mal epilepsy. This disabling illness prevented me for pursuing my career in the field of electronics. All legal medications prescribed to me failed to work and I spent 5 years wasting away suffering from both illness and treatment. In 1988, I decided to try a method of treatment recommended to me by a Doctor, who wishes to remain nameless. This treatment involved the use of a substance contrary to the Misuse Of Drugs Act 1971. The doctor advised me that this substance was illegal and I may loose my liberty if found using or possessing it. This substance is; of course, the Class B controlled substance, cannabis. In the following pages I hope to explain to the committee my reasons for trying this medication, continuing use of this medication and the many reasons this medication should be legally available in the United Kingdom. I have been actively involved in the campaign to remove cannabis from the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 since 1989. Prior to September 1988, I had gran-mal epileptic seizures daily. These seizures rendered me useless. I use to pray that seizures occurred in the late evening, which gave me the night to recover and during the following day I could behave as a normal person. The medications used to treat these seizures were either useless, in the case of Epanutin (Phenytoin), or too sedating to function in the case of Tegretol(Carbamazapine). I also found that the use of the latter medication inhibited the immune system resulting in illnesses of infection in various parts of the body damaged during seizure i.e. huge mouth ulcers. I have scaring of the tongue and many scars of the limbs damaged during seizure. During September 1988, I purchased a quantity of cannabis resin. The substance weighed 1/16th oz. and cost the equivalent of £7.50. It was labelled soap, which I later discovered was because of its shape and was in fact Moroccan hashish. I was instructed by the suppler, a mature lady, that the quantity would be adequate to produce 10 cannabis cigarettes (joints). Ergo each joint contained 175mg. Within an hour of consumption I felt like I had not felt for the last five years. Day by day I released that I was getting better. Over a period of a week I withdrew from Tegretol and treated my epilepsy solely with cannabis. I have had few (<5) seizures while I have smoked cannabis over this 10-year period. In July of 1997, Lancashire Constabulary destroyed my front door. Acting on “Information Received” Burnley & Pendle Magistrates’ Court had issued a warrant to search my home for Amphetamines, Ecstasy and Cannabis. I have never denied smoking cannabis however; the other two are of no interest to me. For six day after the warrant was served on my home I abstained from the consumption of cannabis, during this time I suffered seizures on an hourly basis climaxing on the sixth day when I was admitted to hospital. After a brief discussion with the doctor about my case history I was again unofficially advised to keep taking the cannabis medicine and keep my head down and my mouth shut. Until now this is what I’ve done. Although epilepsy is the main reason for taking cannabis, I have discovered its therapeutic uses extend even further. I am also a diabetic and recently underwent laser treatment on the eyes for retinopathy. One of the Doctors that administered this treatment replied after questions, that cannabis reduces ocular pressure and would therefore ease the pain of scaring of the lasered eye. He also explained that it would cure the majority of glaucoma cases he sees. I can testify that after laser therapy on the right eye with normal paracetamol pain relief, it hurt. Laser therapy on the left eye hurt during administration however after smoking cannabis the healing process was painless. Both eyes were given the same quantity of laser treatment 8 weeks apart. On the subject of diabetes, cannabis is very effective at encouraging me to eat at regular times. This phenomena, known as the “munchies”, must be extremely useful in the treatment of patients with wasting diseases and has proved to stimulate my appetite often. During periods of ketoacidosis, and excess of sugar and therefore a shortage of insulin, many diabetics violently vomit. I can testify that during these periods cannabis smoke is the only treatment that is 100% effective. The Maxalon tables do however work, but are often too difficult to keep down.
21.
I have had Epilepsy for 6 years and the medicines I have had to take are many. I have had to take tegrotol, depakote, lamictal, topomax, and zarontin. I am now taking neurontin, mysolin, and zonegran. I have found that if I smoke marijuana in conjunction with my medicine, I don't seize anymore. The problem is it's illegal. I found that if I take my morning medicine, then instead of my evening medicine smoke marijuana I won't seize. If I take my normal medicine morning and night I have seizures almost everyday.
22.
In 1980 I had my right thumb torn off in an accident, for which I underwent 14 hours of general anesthetic to have it re-attached. All went as well as expected, I got my thumb back but a few months later started having grand mal seizures; bad one's. I'd have them about one or two a month. Medications (dilatin, tegretol, etc) helped reduce it to a few a year, but these are toxic medications. I have to visit my doctor every month to check the level of the medications in my blood stream. The have also caused nautiousness, diziness and other unpleasant effects. I smoked marijuana infrequently throughout my teen years but was also taking prescribed medications. I finally got sick of the blood tests and medications that didn't work, I refused to let these seizures run my life so I gradually stopped all medications. After this, having marijuana on occasion I noticed I didn't have any of what I call "bad days". I was 16 at the time of the accident and I'm 34 now. Over these years, having a "medication" that's available infrequently, I've been able to notice a definite difference during the months with, and months without and one thing remains contant; if I smoke marijuana, I don't have seizures, guaranteed. I have a real job, real friends, I'm not a drug dealer, I don't drink and I don't beleive kids should be stoned at school. I don't have to, at a minutes notice, wonder which hospital I'll wake up in with my head split open from the fall. I have joints that pop out of their socket from the physical havok that is wreaked from these things, and I don't feel I should go to jail for not wanting to endure it. I smoke pot daily, have a normal life, and am constantly complimented on my work by customers where I hold a respectable job. I've seen both a family doctor and a neurologist over the years. I mentioned this to my neurologist once, he could do nothing but listen and nod. I wanted to discuss it with him but I realize it's illegal for him to do anything but sit and listen. I wouldn't go as far as saying it's a cure or that it's for everybody but for me it works, 100%.
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
BBC News:
Cannabis 'could help epileptics'
Further evidence has emerged that an ingredient of cannabis could help prevent epileptic seizures.
Some experts are now calling for fresh research into the potential of cannabis-like compounds to help alleviate the condition.
Researchers from Germany found that natural brain chemicals which resemble cannabis extracts can interrupt a process which can trigger a seizure.
There have been trials of cannabis compounds in MS and cancer patients.
There are reports dating from the 15th century talking about the use of cannabis to ease the symptoms of epilepsy.
However, there have been few organised trials in humans in recent years, even though cannabis or its extracts are being evaluated in trials against several other illness types illness.
Brain chemicals
The researchers, from the Max-Planck Institut in Munich studies mice bred to suffer a key feature of epilepsy in humans.
This is "excitotoxicity" - abnormal stimulation of brain cells by an excessive quantity of a chemical called glutamate.
In the mutant mice, a substance called kainic acid works in a very similar way, and the researchers used this to find out if cannabinoid chemicals could somehow interrupt the process or protect the brain cells involved.
They found, in the mouse brain at least, that key receptors on the surface of the brain cell, which normally respond to contact with cannabinoid-like chemicals produced naturally in the body, appeared to protect against these acid-induced seizures.
However, while the same receptors are found in the human brain, there is no evidence that seizures could be stopped by applying similar cannabinoids in a therapy.
'Promising'
The researchers describe their finding as a "promising therapeutic target" for epilepsy drug research.
Professor Roger Pertwee, an researcher into cannabinoids at Aberdeen University, told BBC News Online that fresh studies into their promise against epilepsy were overdue.
He said: "There is always a need for new drugs to treat epilepsy, and there have now been sufficient animal studies to justify research in humans with epilepsy."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3162000.stm
in še 2 linka, ki sta povezana z ostalimi boleznimi:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/1423981.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/medical_notes/227926.stm
Cannabis 'could help epileptics'
Further evidence has emerged that an ingredient of cannabis could help prevent epileptic seizures.
Some experts are now calling for fresh research into the potential of cannabis-like compounds to help alleviate the condition.
Researchers from Germany found that natural brain chemicals which resemble cannabis extracts can interrupt a process which can trigger a seizure.
There have been trials of cannabis compounds in MS and cancer patients.
There are reports dating from the 15th century talking about the use of cannabis to ease the symptoms of epilepsy.
However, there have been few organised trials in humans in recent years, even though cannabis or its extracts are being evaluated in trials against several other illness types illness.
Brain chemicals
The researchers, from the Max-Planck Institut in Munich studies mice bred to suffer a key feature of epilepsy in humans.
This is "excitotoxicity" - abnormal stimulation of brain cells by an excessive quantity of a chemical called glutamate.
In the mutant mice, a substance called kainic acid works in a very similar way, and the researchers used this to find out if cannabinoid chemicals could somehow interrupt the process or protect the brain cells involved.
They found, in the mouse brain at least, that key receptors on the surface of the brain cell, which normally respond to contact with cannabinoid-like chemicals produced naturally in the body, appeared to protect against these acid-induced seizures.
However, while the same receptors are found in the human brain, there is no evidence that seizures could be stopped by applying similar cannabinoids in a therapy.
'Promising'
The researchers describe their finding as a "promising therapeutic target" for epilepsy drug research.
Professor Roger Pertwee, an researcher into cannabinoids at Aberdeen University, told BBC News Online that fresh studies into their promise against epilepsy were overdue.
He said: "There is always a need for new drugs to treat epilepsy, and there have now been sufficient animal studies to justify research in humans with epilepsy."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/3162000.stm
in še 2 linka, ki sta povezana z ostalimi boleznimi:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/1423981.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/medical_notes/227926.stm
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
Professor Roger Pertwee - Professor of Neuropharmacology and Director of Pharmacology, GW Pharmaceuticals
Institute of medical sciences - University of Aberdeen
...je oseba, ki raziskuje vpliv kanabinoidov in možnost preprečevanja epileptičnih napadov ter zdravljenja epilepsije z marihuano. Delal je že poskuse na živalih, ki so bili zelo uspešni in po katerih pravi, da zdravil za epilepsijo ni nikoli dovolj in, da je čas da jih preizkusijo na človeku.
vir: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/ims/staff/details.php?id=rgp
Literatura:
Pertwee, R.G. (2006) Cannabinoid pharmacology: the first 66 years. BPS 75th Anniversary Supplement. Br. J. Pharmacol. Volume 147 (S1) S163-S171.
Thomas, A., Stevenson, L.A., Wease, K.N., Price, M.R., Baillie, G., Ross, R.A. and Pertwee, R.G. (2005) Evidence that the plant cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin is a cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonist. Br. J. Pharmacol. 146: 917-926.
Price, M.R., Baillie, G.L., Thomas, A., Stevenson, L.A., Easson, M., Goodwin, R., McLean, A., McIntosh, L., Goodwin, G., Walker, G., Westwood, P., Marrs, J., Thomson, F., Cowley, P., Christopoulos, A., Pertwee, R.G. & Ross, R.A. (2005) Allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor. Mol. Pharmacol. 68: 1484–1495.
Pertwee, R.G., Thomas, A., Stevenson, L.A., Maor, Y. and Mechoulam, R. (2005) (–)-7-hydroxy-4’-dimethylheptyl-cannabidiol activates a non-CB1, non-CB2, non-TRPV1 target in the mouse vas deferens in a cannabidiol-sensitive manner. Neuropharmacology 48: 1139-1146.
Pertwee, R.G. (2005) Cannabinoid receptors and their ligands. In: Cannabinoids. (ed. Pertwee, R.G.). Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology. Volume 168, pp. 1-51. Springer-Verlag, Heidelberg. Pertwee, R.G. (2005) Inverse agonism and neutral antagonism at cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Life Sci. 76: 1307-1324.
Thomas, A., Ross, R.A., Saha, B., Mahadevan, A., Razdan, R.K. & Pertwee, R.G. (2004) 6''-Azidohex-2''-yne-cannabidiol: a potential neutral, competitive cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist. Eur. J. Pharmacol. 487: 213-221.
Pertwee, R.G., Ross, R.A., Craib, S.J. and Thomas, A. (2002) (-)-Cannabidiol antagonizes cannabinoid receptor agonists and noradrenaline in the mouse vas deferens. Eur. J. Pharmacol. 456: 99-106
Howlett, A.C., Barth, F., Bonner, T.I., Cabral, G., Casellas, P., Devane, W.A., Felder, C.C., Herkenham, M., Mackie, K., Martin, B.R., Mechoulam, R. and Pertwee, R.G. (2002) International Union of Pharmacology. XXVII. Classification of Cannabinoid Receptors. Pharmacol. Rev. 54: 161-202.
Pertwee, R.G. (2002) Cannabinoids and multiple sclerosis. Pharmacol. Ther. 95: 165-174.
Institute of medical sciences - University of Aberdeen
...je oseba, ki raziskuje vpliv kanabinoidov in možnost preprečevanja epileptičnih napadov ter zdravljenja epilepsije z marihuano. Delal je že poskuse na živalih, ki so bili zelo uspešni in po katerih pravi, da zdravil za epilepsijo ni nikoli dovolj in, da je čas da jih preizkusijo na človeku.
vir: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/ims/staff/details.php?id=rgp
Literatura:
Pertwee, R.G. (2006) Cannabinoid pharmacology: the first 66 years. BPS 75th Anniversary Supplement. Br. J. Pharmacol. Volume 147 (S1) S163-S171.
Thomas, A., Stevenson, L.A., Wease, K.N., Price, M.R., Baillie, G., Ross, R.A. and Pertwee, R.G. (2005) Evidence that the plant cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin is a cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor antagonist. Br. J. Pharmacol. 146: 917-926.
Price, M.R., Baillie, G.L., Thomas, A., Stevenson, L.A., Easson, M., Goodwin, R., McLean, A., McIntosh, L., Goodwin, G., Walker, G., Westwood, P., Marrs, J., Thomson, F., Cowley, P., Christopoulos, A., Pertwee, R.G. & Ross, R.A. (2005) Allosteric modulation of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor. Mol. Pharmacol. 68: 1484–1495.
Pertwee, R.G., Thomas, A., Stevenson, L.A., Maor, Y. and Mechoulam, R. (2005) (–)-7-hydroxy-4’-dimethylheptyl-cannabidiol activates a non-CB1, non-CB2, non-TRPV1 target in the mouse vas deferens in a cannabidiol-sensitive manner. Neuropharmacology 48: 1139-1146.
Pertwee, R.G. (2005) Cannabinoid receptors and their ligands. In: Cannabinoids. (ed. Pertwee, R.G.). Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology. Volume 168, pp. 1-51. Springer-Verlag, Heidelberg. Pertwee, R.G. (2005) Inverse agonism and neutral antagonism at cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Life Sci. 76: 1307-1324.
Thomas, A., Ross, R.A., Saha, B., Mahadevan, A., Razdan, R.K. & Pertwee, R.G. (2004) 6''-Azidohex-2''-yne-cannabidiol: a potential neutral, competitive cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist. Eur. J. Pharmacol. 487: 213-221.
Pertwee, R.G., Ross, R.A., Craib, S.J. and Thomas, A. (2002) (-)-Cannabidiol antagonizes cannabinoid receptor agonists and noradrenaline in the mouse vas deferens. Eur. J. Pharmacol. 456: 99-106
Howlett, A.C., Barth, F., Bonner, T.I., Cabral, G., Casellas, P., Devane, W.A., Felder, C.C., Herkenham, M., Mackie, K., Martin, B.R., Mechoulam, R. and Pertwee, R.G. (2002) International Union of Pharmacology. XXVII. Classification of Cannabinoid Receptors. Pharmacol. Rev. 54: 161-202.
Pertwee, R.G. (2002) Cannabinoids and multiple sclerosis. Pharmacol. Ther. 95: 165-174.
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
Marijuana hope for epileptics
NZ Herald, 06.10.03
By STEVE CONNOR
Marijuana could help to prevent epilepsy in some patients, says a study showing that natural cannabis-like substances in the brain can calm overactive nerves.
The findings suggest it may be possible to stimulate the body's own innate cannabinoids - the active ingredients of cannabis - to control epileptic seizures caused by hyperactive brain cells.
Although the research has been done in animals, scientists believe the discovery could lead to clinical trials in humans to augment cannabis trials already under way in Britain studying its pain-relieving properties.
Beat Lutz, of the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry in Munich, said the study showed the brain's natural cannabis system was involved in preventing epileptic seizures.
"When the brain's nerve cells begin to fire too much, then there is a huge production of innate cannabinoids which calms everything down," Dr Lutz said.
Anecdotal accounts of cannabis being used to control epileptic fits go back many centuries.
Ibn al-Badri, an Arab writer of the 15th century, described how cannabis was used to cure the epileptic son of a caliphate council member.
In the 19th century, at least one British doctor working in India used hashish to treat a patient's convulsions and in the 1970s, medical researchers investigated the anti-epileptic activity of cannabis more scientifically.
The latest research, published in the journal Science, has concentrated on the role played by the brain's innate cannabis system - protein receptors on the surface of nerve cells that bind like a lock and key to naturally produce cannabinoids.
When the scientists produced genetically engineered mice lacking the proteins - called CB1 receptors - they found that the animals suffered excessive epileptic seizures.
Furthermore, the researchers were able to identify which parts of the brain the CB1 receptors work best in, preventing fits by calming down overactive nerve cells.
But Dr Lutz warned that giving cannabis to epileptic patients to simulate the body's innate defence against seizures might work for only some people and make matters worse for others. It would be better to develop drugs to target indigenous cannabinoids.
"It is a self-defence system and is only active when it is needed. You don't have it active all the time, so flooding the brain all the time with cannabis may not be a good thing."
Leslie Iversen, visiting professor of pharmacology at Oxford University and a world authority on cannabis, said the latest research appeared to explain why the brain produces its own cannabis-like substances.
"It's a very beautifully done piece of work and provides another insight into the role of the naturally occurring cannabis system in the brain," he said.
"The research pinpoints the very interesting role of natural cannabinoids in damping down the hyperstimulation of the brain."
Of the 60 known chemicals in cannabis, the most active is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The Medical Research Council in Britain has begun cannabis THC trials for pain relief after surgery and in multiple sclerosis.
Cannabis and epilepsy
Scientists found the brain's own natural cannabis system produces a calming effect which protects against epileptic seizures.
But they warn that "flooding the brain" with cannabis itself may not be the best solution for epileptics.
A new drug which stimulates the same receptors in the brain could be the answer.
- INDEPENDENT
NZ Herald, 06.10.03
By STEVE CONNOR
Marijuana could help to prevent epilepsy in some patients, says a study showing that natural cannabis-like substances in the brain can calm overactive nerves.
The findings suggest it may be possible to stimulate the body's own innate cannabinoids - the active ingredients of cannabis - to control epileptic seizures caused by hyperactive brain cells.
Although the research has been done in animals, scientists believe the discovery could lead to clinical trials in humans to augment cannabis trials already under way in Britain studying its pain-relieving properties.
Beat Lutz, of the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry in Munich, said the study showed the brain's natural cannabis system was involved in preventing epileptic seizures.
"When the brain's nerve cells begin to fire too much, then there is a huge production of innate cannabinoids which calms everything down," Dr Lutz said.
Anecdotal accounts of cannabis being used to control epileptic fits go back many centuries.
Ibn al-Badri, an Arab writer of the 15th century, described how cannabis was used to cure the epileptic son of a caliphate council member.
In the 19th century, at least one British doctor working in India used hashish to treat a patient's convulsions and in the 1970s, medical researchers investigated the anti-epileptic activity of cannabis more scientifically.
The latest research, published in the journal Science, has concentrated on the role played by the brain's innate cannabis system - protein receptors on the surface of nerve cells that bind like a lock and key to naturally produce cannabinoids.
When the scientists produced genetically engineered mice lacking the proteins - called CB1 receptors - they found that the animals suffered excessive epileptic seizures.
Furthermore, the researchers were able to identify which parts of the brain the CB1 receptors work best in, preventing fits by calming down overactive nerve cells.
But Dr Lutz warned that giving cannabis to epileptic patients to simulate the body's innate defence against seizures might work for only some people and make matters worse for others. It would be better to develop drugs to target indigenous cannabinoids.
"It is a self-defence system and is only active when it is needed. You don't have it active all the time, so flooding the brain all the time with cannabis may not be a good thing."
Leslie Iversen, visiting professor of pharmacology at Oxford University and a world authority on cannabis, said the latest research appeared to explain why the brain produces its own cannabis-like substances.
"It's a very beautifully done piece of work and provides another insight into the role of the naturally occurring cannabis system in the brain," he said.
"The research pinpoints the very interesting role of natural cannabinoids in damping down the hyperstimulation of the brain."
Of the 60 known chemicals in cannabis, the most active is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The Medical Research Council in Britain has begun cannabis THC trials for pain relief after surgery and in multiple sclerosis.
Cannabis and epilepsy
Scientists found the brain's own natural cannabis system produces a calming effect which protects against epileptic seizures.
But they warn that "flooding the brain" with cannabis itself may not be the best solution for epileptics.
A new drug which stimulates the same receptors in the brain could be the answer.
- INDEPENDENT
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
moja teta ma epilepsijo ... tak 1 do 3 krat na leto ma napad ... enkrat sem biu zravn ko ga je dobla ... grozna stvar ... sao nea vem nebi bla glih nevem kak happy če bi ji ponudo joint ... ker je full proti drogam
excuse me while i light my splif, from reality i just cant drift, so im staying with the splif
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
Quote:
moja teta ma epilepsijo ... tak 1 do 3 krat na leto ma napad ... enkrat sem biu zravn ko ga je dobla ... grozna stvar ... sao nea vem nebi bla glih nevem kak happy če bi ji ponudo joint ... ker je full proti drogam
daj ji pošlji ta link na mejl.
DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR!
Re: Epilepsija in Marihuana - Problem in Rešitev
Sam pol bi lahk povezala.. jegger (dobr ni nujn da ve njegow nick).. teta isto 1-3 letno... in ona isto dobi mail 
Lp
Lp
Avešunokao.
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