Oil extracted from the cannabis plant could be used to treat children with epilepsy under a bill introduced in the Kentucky Senate.
The measure sponsored by Republican Whitney Westerfield is supported by Doctor Brett Smith, who is director of the Epilepsy Center at the UK Medical School.
Doctor Smith testified on Wednesday (Feb. 19) before the Health and Welfare Committee. He says there’s anecdotal evidence that appears to show CBD oil helps control epileptic seizures. However, he says, more research is needed.
Smith says approval of Senate Bill 124 would allow UK physicians to do controlled, clinical trials to learn how effective the extract can be in the treatment of children’s epilepsy. Senator Westerfield’s proposal calls for amending Kentucky’s definition of “marijuana” to exempt CBD oil.
Use of the substance is currently illegal in the Commonwealth because it comes from the same plant that produces marijuana.
