A new era in the treatment of epilepsy
In Spain, the first medicine exclusively made from cannabis has been given the green light, marking a significant milestone in the field of medicine. This innovative drug, called Epidyolex, has been developed to address epilepsy, with the participation of more than 10 Spanish hospitals in its clinical process.
Benefits and availability
Epidyolex, an oral solution containing highly purified cannabidiol (CBD), has received approval from the European Commission, becoming the first plant-derived cannabis-based prescription medicine to obtain this authorization. This advance represents hope for patients with highly resistant epilepsy, offering a potential improvement in quality of life.
Clinical development and testimonials
The clinical development of this therapy has involved the participation of more than ten hospitals in Spain, which underlines the country’s commitment to medical innovation. Experts such as Antonio Gil-Nagel Rein, neurologist and director of the Epilepsy Program at the Ruber International Hospital in Madrid, have expressed their optimism, highlighting the positive impact that this medication can have on patients with highly resistant epilepsies.
Mechanism of action and perspectives
The drug uses a novel mechanism of action, reducing neuronal hyperexcitability and inflammation through modulation of intracellular calcium and neurotransmitters in the presynaptic neuron. This promising approach offers hope for patients with Lennox-Gastaut (LGS) and Dravet (DS) syndromes, two rare forms of epilepsy with high rates of morbidity and mortality.
Perspectives from the medical community
Vicente Villanueva, neurologist and section head of the Refractory Epilepsy Unit at Hospital Universitario I Politécnico La Fe, supports the effectiveness of the drug, highlighting the encouraging clinical data observed in real life. These advances represent a light of hope for patients with highly resistant epilepsy, offering new treatment possibilities.
