Targeting Endocannabinoid System in Epilepsy: For Good or for Bad

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder with a high prevalence worldwide. Several studies carried out during the last decades indicate that the administration of cannabinoids as well as the activation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) represent a therapeutic strategy to control epilepsy. However, there are controversial studies indicating that activation of ECS results in cell damage, inflammation and neurotoxicity, conditions that facilitate the seizure activity. The present review is focused to present findings supporting this issue. According to the current discrepancies, it is relevant to elucidate the different effects induced by the activation of ECS and determine the conditions under which it facilitates the seizure activity. (c) 2021 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder worldwide. Recent studies have shown that the use of cannabinoids and activation of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) can be a therapeutic strategy for controlling epilepsy. However, there are controversial findings regarding the effects of ECS activation.