Miracle Leaf® qualifying-conditions guide
Medical Marijuana for Epilepsy
Neurological disorder characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures. Cannabidiol (CBD) has strong evidence for reducing seizure frequency in two rare childhood epilepsy syndromes (Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome) and is FDA-approved as Epidiolex for those indications.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder defined by recurrent unprovoked seizures. The condition affects an estimated 3.4 million Americans. Most patients respond to anti-seizure medications, but approximately one-third develop treatment-resistant epilepsy that fails two or more first-line drugs.
Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome are rare, severe pediatric-onset epilepsies that are notoriously difficult to control and were historically refractory to nearly all available treatments.
Does cannabis help Epilepsy?
The 2017 NASEM consensus report classified the evidence for cannabidiol (CBD) in certain epilepsy syndromes as conclusive or substantial (the highest evidence tier in the report). This finding was based on multiple randomized clinical trials demonstrating significant seizure-frequency reductions in patients with Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes.
In 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex (a purified plant-derived cannabidiol oral solution) for treating seizures associated with Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex. Epidiolex is a Schedule V controlled substance and is dispensed by prescription through standard pharmacy channels, distinct from state medical-cannabis programs.
Evidence for cannabis or cannabinoids in adult-onset epilepsy and other seizure disorders remains less robust. Most state medical-cannabis programs include epilepsy or seizure disorders as qualifying conditions for adult patients.
Patient guidance from Miracle Leaf®
Cannabis is one of several treatment options patients with epilepsy may consider. Our Miracle Leaf® physicians evaluate each patient against the qualifying-condition criteria of their state program and discuss expected benefits and risks based on current clinical evidence. We coordinate with your other treating clinicians where appropriate.
Miracle Leaf brand products including CBD, Delta-8, and low-THC formulations are available for in-store pickup and nationwide shipping through the Miracle Leaf Store.
Eligibility
State eligibility for Epilepsy
Whether this condition is listed varies by state program. A Miracle Leaf® physician determines eligibility during your evaluation.
| State | Qualifies? | Program |
|---|---|---|
| Florida | Yes | Florida OMMU |
| Georgia | Yes | Georgia DPH Low-THC Registry |
| Texas | Yes | Texas Compassionate Use Program |
Telehealth visits are available in 22 states. See telehealth states
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is cannabis FDA-approved for epilepsy?
How does CBD reduce seizures?
Can over-the-counter CBD replace prescription Epidiolex?
What are the side effects of CBD for epilepsy?
Sources and citations
- NASEM, The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
“Conclusive or substantial evidence that oral cannabidiol is effective for the treatment of certain epilepsy syndromes.”
- FDA, Epidiolex (cannabidiol) prescribing information
- NIH NCCIH, Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids
Keep reading
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- Florida program
- Georgia program
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Ready to talk with a Miracle Leaf® physician?
Reviewed by Miracle Leaf® Editorial Team. This page summarizes current peer-reviewed evidence and federal guidance and is updated when the source documents materially change.