Cannabidiol
Cannabidiol or CBD, which is sold under the brand name Epidiolex, was the first medication to be approved by the US Food and the Drug Administration for treating Dravet syndrome. It is derived from the component of marijuana that does not make you feel high. It consists of 98 percent pure CBD oil extracted from the cannabis plant. Studies have shown that this treatment can be effective in reducing the frequency of seizures when taken with other medications. However, there are certain side effects, such as sedation, lethargy, drowsiness, loss of appetite, higher levels of liver enzymes, rash, diarrhea, malaise, fatigue, weakness, infections, and sleep issues. Keep in mind that cannabidiol should only be used for people who are over two years old. [2]
Stiripentol
Another medication for treating seizures caused by Dravet syndrome is stiripentol. Available under the brand name Diacomit, this is a type of anticonvulsants for people over two years old who are currently taking clobazam. Results from clinical trials have shown that this combination would help reduce the frequency of seizures. However, stiripentol may cause certain side effects, such as difficulty sleeping, trouble saying words, shaking, nausea, low muscle tone, weight loss, impaired coordination or balance, agitation, reduced appetite, and drowsiness. [3]
