Cannabidiol

Generic name: cannabidiol [ KAN-a-bi-DYE-ol ]
Brand name: Epidiolex
Dosage form: oral liquid (100 mg/mL)
Drug class:Miscellaneous anticonvulsants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 2, 2020. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is cannabidiol?

Cannabidiol is used to treat seizures in people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex.

Cannabidiol is for use in adults and children who are at least 1 year old.

Cannabidiol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Cannabidiol can harm your liver. Your liver function may need to be checked before and during treatment.

Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms such as:nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, right-sided upper stomach pain, tiredness, itching, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how cannabidiol will affect you.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking cannabidiol. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to cannabidiol or sesame seed oil.

Cannabidiol is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;

• drug or alcohol addiction;

• depression, a mood disorder; or

• suicidal thoughts or actions.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking cannabidiol. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of cannabidiol on the baby.

How should I take cannabidiol?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Cannabidiol is usually taken 2 times per day. Take the medicine at the same times each day.

You may take cannabidiol with or without food, but take it the same way each time.

Measure cannabidiol carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or ...