Why is this medication prescribed?

When a child or adult with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (a disorder that starts in early childhood and causes seizures, behavioral problems, and developmental delays), Dravet syndrome (a disorder that starts in early childhood and causes seizures and later may lead to developmental delays and changes in eating, balance, and walking), or tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC; a genetic condition that causes tumors to grow in many organs) undergo seizures, cannabidiol is used to control those seizures. There is a class of drugs known as cannabinoids that includes cannabidiol. Cannabidiol’s precise mode of action in preventing seizures is unknown.

How should this medicine be used?

Cannabidiol is administered orally as a liquid solution. Usually, it is taken twice a day. You should take cannabidiol consistently, regardless of whether you take it with or without food. Take cannabidiol daily at approximately the same times. Pay close attention to the instructions on the label of your prescription and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain anything you do not understand. Cannabidiol should be taken as prescribed. Never take more or less of it, or take it more frequently than your doctor has instructed.

To measure the solution, use the oral syringe that was included with the prescription. To measure your dosage, never use a regular spoon.

Take the drug every time you take it using a dry oral syringe. If water gets inside the syringe or into the medicine bottle, the solution can become hazy, but this won’t affect the medication’s effectiveness or safety.

With a feeding tube, the oral solution can be administered. Consult your doctor about the proper way to take your medication if you are on a feeding tube. Pay close attention to these instructions.

Cannabidiol will be prescribed to you by your doctor at a low dosage and increased gradually over time, usually no more than once per week.

Although it doesn’t heal your illness, cannabidiol aids in its management. Keep taking cannabidiol even if you feel better. Consult your physician before quitting cannabis. You can get new or worsening seizures as a result of withdrawal symptoms if you abruptly stop using cannabidiol. Most likely, your doctor will gradually reduce your dosage. When you start cannabidiol treatment and every time you refill your prescription, you will get the manufacturer’s patient information sheet (Medication Guide) from your doctor or pharmacist. If you have any questions, make sure to approach your pharmacist or doctor after thoroughly reading the material.

Other uses for this medicine

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information if you think this medicine could be recommended for something else.

What special precautions should I follow?

While generally considered safe for most people, there are some precautions to keep in mind when using cannabidiol:

• Drug Interactions: Cannabidiol can interact with certain medications, especially those that carry a grapefruit warning. It affects the same enzymes (CYP450) in the liver that metabolize many drugs.
• Side Effects: Although rare and usually mild, Cannabidiol can cause side effects such as fatigue, diarrhea, and changes in appetite.
• Quality and Purity: Since the Cannabidiol industry is not fully regulated, it’s important to choose products from reputable sources to ensure quality and purity.
• Legal Status: Check the legal status of Cannabidiol in your location, as laws vary widely. Some places have strict regulations regarding its sale and use.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There’s limited research on the effects of Cannabidiol during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it’s typically advised to avoid it during these times.
• Individual Sensitivity: People may react differently to Cannabidiol, so it’s wise to start with a low dose and monitor your body’s response.
• Psychiatric Disorders: Cannabidiol may interact with psychiatric medications, so those with mental health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using it.

Always consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing medical conditions or are taking medications, before starting Cannabidiol or any other supplement regimen. This ensures it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

If you plan to consume or drink grapefruit juice while taking this medicine, consult your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. On the other hand, if the next dose is almost here, skip the one you missed and stick to your usual dosage plan. Never take two doses to make up for something you forgot to take.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cannabidiol can cause a range of side effects, some of which are mild and others that may be more severe. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Cannabidiol include:

• Diarrhea
• Tiredness
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Drooling or excessive saliva
• Problems with walking

Less common but potentially more serious side effects include:

• Rash
• Hives
• Redness
• Loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; yellow skin or eyes; itching; unusual darkening of the urine; or right upper stomach area pain or discomfort
• Fever, cough, or other signs of infection

It’s important to note that the benefits of quitting smoking with Chantix generally outweigh the risks of these side effects for most people. However, it’s essential to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider and to report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and dispose of Cannabidiol:

This medicine should be kept out of children’s reach and in the original container, closed tightly. Keep it at room temperature, out of the bathroom, and away from extreme heat and dampness. Keep the solution frozen or refrigerated. Twelve weeks after the bottle is initially opened, discard any leftover oral solution.

It is important to dispose of unnecessary prescriptions in a specific manner so that children, dogs, and other people cannot ingest them. But this drug is not something you should flush down the toilet. The best way to get rid of your medication is to use a service called medicine take-back. To find out more about take-back initiatives in your area, speak with your pharmacist or get in touch with the waste management or recycling department.

It is important to dispose of unnecessary prescriptions in a specific manner so that children, dogs, and other people cannot ingest them. But this drug is not something you should flush down the toilet. The best way to get rid of your medication is to use a service called medicine take-back. To find out more about take-back initiatives in your area, speak with your pharmacist or get in touch with the waste management or recycling department.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms: If you suspect an overdose of Cannabidiol, which may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Poison Control: Contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) for guidance if you suspect an overdose or have questions about the management of Cannabidiol overdose.

What other information should I know?

Remember to keep all of your doctor’s and the laboratory’s appointments. Before and during your therapy, your doctor will prescribe certain lab tests to monitor your body’s reaction to cannabidiol.

Notify the lab staff and your doctor that you are taking cannabidiol prior to receiving any type of test.

Don’t give your medication to anyone else. If you have any questions concerning filling your prescription, ask the pharmacist.

It is crucial that you maintain a written record of every medication you take, including over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs, as well as any dietary supplements, vitamins, and minerals. This list should accompany you to all doctor appointments and hospital admissions. Additionally, having this information on hand is crucial in case of an emergency.