ABSTRACT
The past decade has seen an explosion of interest in medical cannabis for serious pediatric ailments after a documentary highlighted its anti-seizure effects in a young girl with a severe form of epilepsy. Although still considered by some to be controversial, the use of phytocannabinoid medicines for pediatric medical conditions is now considered an option in many U.S. states and European countries. This chapter will review the latest understanding of the pediatric endocannabinoid system in both healthy and diseased states. Additionally, preclinical and clinical evidence for conditions, such as epilepsy and autism, will be discussed along with retrospective reports. A review of the scientific literature supporting the use of cannabinoid medicine to treat cancer, ADHD, neurodegenerative disease, Tourette syndrome and spasticity is also presented. The author shares a case report from her cannabis specialty medical practice and makes the case for the need for future research.
