Cannabis and epilepsy: truths, risks and real treatments according to LICE

The Italian League Against Epilepsy clarifies the dangers of misinformation and stresses the need for certified medications

Cannabis and epilepsy: clarity is needed to protect patients

Following a TV report aired on RAI TG3 on May 8, 2025, the Italian League Against Epilepsy (LICE) issued an official statement warning against the dangers of misinformation about the use of medical cannabis for epilepsy. The case in question involved a woman who had a traffic accident allegedly following her first seizure. Hospital tests revealed traces of THC, leading to the revocation of her driving license.

A single seizure does not mean epilepsy

LICE President Carlo Andrea Galimberti pointed out that a single seizure is not enough to diagnose epilepsy, although it can still justify license suspension. Diagnosing this complex neurological disease must follow strict criteria and be carried out by specialists.

Cannabis is not a general treatment for epilepsy

One major issue is the use of cannabis-based products. LICE clarifies that only one medication containing Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component, is approved in Italy and Europe for specific rare and severe forms of epilepsy, such as developmental and epileptic encephalopathies.

In contrast, using products containing THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, is not recommended and may pose serious health and legal risks, including losing a driver’s license.

Evidence-based medicine, not beliefs

LICE reiterates that epilepsy treatment must rely on validated scientific data and doctor-prescribed medications. Self-medication with cannabis products is not only ineffective, but dangerous.

In an age of rampant misinformation, the media must take responsibility by presenting scientifically accurate contentto protect both patients and public health.

Only one approved CBD-based drug

The CBD drug approved by AIFA and EMA is used exclusively for rare epilepsy types under strict medical supervision and following precise dosage protocols. Any other cannabis-based treatment is off-label and potentially risky.

LICE remains available to provide updated, evidence-based information to citizens, journalists and patients to counter misinformation and promote responsible healthcare choices.