Breaking News: FDA Approves its First CBD-Based Prescription Drug Epidiolex

What is Epidiolex?

Epidiolex is a prescription drug that contains a highly purified form of cannabidiol, or CBD, which is a non-psychoactive compound found in marijuana. The drug has been approved by the FDA to treat seizures associated with two rare and severe forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, in patients two years of age and older.

Why is this significant?

This approval marks the first time the FDA has approved a drug derived from marijuana for any medical indication. It is also a significant milestone for the medical marijuana industry, as it lends credibility to the potential therapeutic benefits of marijuana and its compounds.

What are the potential benefits of Epidiolex?

For those with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome, the approval of Epidiolex offers hope for a treatment that could reduce the frequency and severity of their seizures. It could also potentially offer relief for other conditions that CBD has shown promise in treating, such as anxiety, chronic pain, and inflammation.

What are the potential drawbacks?

As with any medication, there may be potential side effects to Epidiolex, including liver damage and changes in mood or behavior. Additionally, the drug is expected to come with a high price tag, with estimates ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 per year.

What does this mean for the future of medical marijuana?

While the approval of Epidiolex is a significant step forward, it is important to note that the FDA only approves drugs for specific medical indications. This means that while Epidiolex may be a promising treatment for certain conditions, it is not a blanket endorsement of marijuana or CBD for all medical purposes. However, the approval of Epidiolex could pave the way for more research into the potential benefits of marijuana and its compounds, and possibly lead to more FDA-approved medications in the future.

Sources:

• FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe Forms of Epilepsy
• EPIDIOLEX
• Haleigh’s Hope