LAUSR

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis, is readily available to buy. Advertised as having many health benefits, most research relates to use in epilepsy. Some parents are starting use CBD oil to aid behaviour management. We decided to review the evidence relating to this and explore our colleagues’ experience of use in practice. A survey was emailed to local paediatricians, regional BACCH members and to local Community Nurse Specialists. Of 28 respondents 26 had heard of CBD oil and 9 had children under their care using this. Use in epilepsy (4) was the most common reason for use. One child was given it for behaviour and two for a combination of conditions. Other reasons for use were palliative care, chronic fatigue and parents thinking of giving it to their child. We were interested to know what advice our colleagues had offered parents. Two respondents had advised stopping, 4 had advised that they would discuss with their colleagues and 3 explained a lack of evidence for use, off license, and that it was a parental decision. Eight respondents had identified ‘other’ response, with 5 indicating the question was not applicable. Two others gave responses similar to lack of evidence and one reported that the GP had agreed to prescribe. Finally, 24 out of 28 respondents had felt that they did not know enough about CBD oil to discuss use with families. CBD oil is widely available. Preparations on sale to the public may contain a psychoactive component, known to have negative side effects. It is not known what dose an individual may require and there is little research into use in behaviour management. Clinicians need to be prepared to discuss use with families, though at present many do not feel they have the knowledge to do this. The British Paediatric Neurology Association has issued a statement which will aid discussions.