A landmark review of evidence supporting the use of cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) in epilepsy treatment has been released in the United Kingdom — the first of its kind.
November 1 marks six years since medicinal cannabis was legalised in the UK, yet many children with epilepsy continue to be denied access through the National Health Service (NHS), with clinicians frequently citing insufficient evidence as the reason.
In response to that shortfall, Maple Tree Consultants — co-founded by advocate Hannah Deacon and Professor Mike Barnes, the first doctor in the UK to issue a prescription for the medicine — has released Medical Cannabis & Epilepsy.
Drawing on more than 280 references to peer-reviewed literature, the publication examines nearly 100 clinical trials, real-world studies, and observational research into how CBMPs can be used to manage epilepsy.
Co-authored by Barnes, Deacon, and Varinder Kaur, the guide is directed at healthcare professionals, patients, and regulators who want a thorough grounding in CBMP use, with a particular focus on patients living with drug-resistant epilepsy.
Barnes said: "By compiling this extensive evidence, we provide a strong foundation for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about the efficacy and safety of cannabis-based medicinal products.
"As medical cannabis continues to demonstrate its effectiveness in treating epilepsy in many patients, this guide is critical for advancing its acceptance and improving access for patients who need it most."
The publication also takes a detailed look at the obstacles patients face when trying to access CBMPs within the UK's regulatory framework, covering gaps in NHS provision, the increasing dependence on private clinics, and the financial pressure families bear when pursuing treatment.
Co-author Varinder Kaur said that despite cannabis being legalised for medicinal use in the UK since 2018, patients are still struggling to access products via the NHS.
"Many doctors refuse to prescribe cannabis due to restrictive guidelines and concerns regarding the lack of evidence," Kaur added.
Deacon's son Alfie is among the small number of children who hold an NHS prescription for medicinal cannabis and has been seizure-free for more than four years.
She said the new publication "pulls together the comprehensive evidence healthcare professionals need to better support children and families affected by epilepsy".
She added: "My son Alfie's life has been completely transformed by medical cannabis — from enduring hundreds of seizures a month to living a fuller, happier life. His journey is the reason I'm so passionate about advocating for children with refractory epilepsy.
"I truly hope this publication opens doors for many more families, giving clinicians the data they need to make informed decisions and improve access to this life-changing treatment."
