Managing the Potential Side Effects of Epidiolex, Ranging from Mild to Severe
In the world of medical treatments, Epidiolex stands out as a significant solution for certain types of seizures. This oral solution, prescribed for adults and some children, is a purified cannabidiol (CBD) product. However, like any medication, it comes with its own set of side effects and potential risks.
One of the primary concerns with Epidiolex is its impact on liver health. In clinical trials, approximately 12-13% of patients treated with Epidiolex showed elevations in liver transaminases (ALT and AST), enzymes indicative of liver stress or damage, compared with about 1% on placebo. These elevations can be severe, occasionally requiring hospitalization, and may appear within the first two months of treatment but have been reported up to 18 months after starting, especially when taken with valproate, another anti-epileptic drug.
It's crucial to note that routine monitoring of liver function tests during Epidiolex therapy is strongly recommended. Many cases of enzyme elevations resolve with dose adjustment or discontinuation. The increased risk of liver problems is linked to the liver enzyme inhibition by CBD, which can affect the metabolism of other drugs and potentially contribute to liver injury if combined improperly.
Epidiolex can also cause other side effects, such as sedation, fever, digestive problems, sleep changes, and a risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviours. Drinking alcohol while taking Epidiolex could increase your risk of sleepiness and sedation and contribute to liver problems. If you have questions about drinking alcohol while taking Epidiolex, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Other side effects of Epidiolex include mild ones like fatigue, weakness, general discomfort, skin rash, mild infection, and sleep changes. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, flushing, swelling, or difficulty breathing, call your doctor right away or immediately call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms are severe and you think you're having a medical emergency.
Epidiolex is generally considered safe for older adults (ages 65 years and older), but older adults may be more likely to have certain health conditions that affect how their bodies respond to Epidiolex. Doctors may prescribe a lower dosage of Epidiolex for older adults than for younger people.
If you take Epidiolex during pregnancy, ask your doctor about enrolling in a pregnancy registry. The long-term effects of Epidiolex on liver health primarily involve dose-related elevations in liver transaminases, which can be managed with careful monitoring and dose adjustments.
Before starting treatment with Epidiolex, it's important to tell your doctor about any medications you take. If you have symptoms of an allergic reaction, high liver enzymes, or signs of liver problems, call a doctor right away. If serious side effects occur while taking Epidiolex, call a doctor right away.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, seek support from the 988 Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, Befrienders Worldwide, or local emergency services.
[1] Drug Safety Communication: Hepatotoxicity with Epidiolex (cannabidiol) oral solution - FDA [2] Epidiolex (cannabidiol) oral solution - Prescribing Information - FDA [3] Epidiolex (cannabidiol) oral solution - Highlights of Prescribing Information - FDA [4] Epidiolex (cannabidiol) oral solution - Medication Guide - FDA [5] Epidiolex (cannabidiol) oral solution - Patient Information - FDA
- In the realm of medical-conditions and health-and-wellness, Epidiolex, a CBD therapy, is prescribed for certain types of seizures, yet it has potential side effects, including impact on liver health and liver enzyme elevations.
- It's crucial to monitor liver function tests during Epidiolex therapy due to the increased risk of liver problems, which could require hospitalization and may be exacerbated by the combined use with other medications like valproate.
- Mental-health concerns should also be addressed when considering Epidiolex, as it carries a risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors as a side effect. If you or someone you know is experiencing such thoughts, seek immediate help from crisis support lines.
