Parents of children with epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and other debilitating conditions have long searched for alternatives when conventional medications fail. Now, for some families, medical cannabis is providing a new path forward.
One of the most well-documented cases is in treating rare forms of epilepsy such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in marijuana, has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in reducing seizure frequency. The FDA’s approval of Epidiolex—a plant-derived CBD drug—marked a turning point in the discussion around cannabis in pediatric care.
Connecticut is among the states leading the way. In 2021, the state expanded its medical marijuana program to include access for patients under 18, allowing minors to obtain medical marijuana with the certification of two physicians and the consent of a parent or guardian. The state’s qualifying conditions list for pediatric patients includes epilepsy, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, and uncontrolled intractable migraines, among others.
Doctors emphasize that marijuana is not a cure-all, and its use in children must be carefully monitored and tailored to each individual case. Nonetheless, families across Connecticut report improvements in quality of life—from reduced seizures and chronic pain to enhanced focus and sleep.
As the conversation around pediatric cannabis evolves, so does the urgency to understand its risks, benefits, and long-term effects. At Dabbin-Dad, we’re committed to breaking down the facts.
Stay tuned—over the coming weeks, we’ll be doing a deep dive into each pediatric condition approved for medical marijuana use in Connecticut. We’ll explore how cannabis is being used, hear from families and clinicians, and examine the science behind this controversial but increasingly vital treatment option.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
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