Alternative Therapies for Seizure Management

Managing seizures helps people find control of their epilepsy through preparation, communication, and treatment. Traditional treatment for epilepsy includes medicine, surgery, and seizure devices. Alternative therapies are other types of treatment that some people find helpful in managing seizures.  

Alternative therapies can be used along with traditional treatment or instead of traditional treatment. It is important to always talk to your healthcare team first before trying a new therapy.

Medical Cannabis and CBD

Medical cannabis refers to a variety of products that come from the cannabis plant, including medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD). Studies have shown strong evidence that pharmaceutical-grade CBD (which is carefully regulated) can reduce seizures for people living with:

• Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
• Dravet syndrome
• Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)

CBD can negatively interact with some medications, so it’s important to discuss any possible interactions with your doctor.

Download the flyer on considering medical cannabis for seizure management. It shares more information about medical cannabis and includes questions to ask your care team.

Herbs and Dietary Supplements  

Research is limited on alternative therapies like herbs and dietary supplements. Although they are often thought of as “natural,” they are not always safe for people with epilepsy. Some herbal or dietary therapies can interact with seizure medicine or affect seizures. Be sure to educate yourself on products, talk to your doctor, and never substitute a supplement for your regular seizure medicine. Examples of this therapy include:

• Ginko biloba
• Ginseng
• St. John’s wort
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Zinc

Learn more about nutritional deficiency triggers.

Mind and Body Practices

Mind and body practices like acupuncture, meditation, massage therapy, and hypnotherapy may help some people with epilepsy to improve overall health and wellness. Good physical and mental health can help manage seizures alongside traditional treatments. Before trying any new therapy, it’s best to talk to your doctor.

Download the Wellness Toolkit that addresses different areas of wellness for people living with epilepsy.

Should I Consider Using Alternative Therapies?

Like any treatment or medicine, alternative therapies are different for everyone and can depend on the type of epilepsy and seizures you have. Talk to your healthcare team to understand the risks and potential benefits.  

This article is in partnership with Jazz Pharmaceuticals.