Prescription Practices of Medical Cannabinoids in Children with Cerebral Palsy - A Survey of the Swiss Cerebral Palsy Registry

AimMedical cannabinoids are prescribed to children with cerebral palsy despite limited evidence. We aimed to assess the prescription practices of cannabinoids in children with cerebral palsy with a particular focus on indications and preparations used and how well cannabinoids are tolerated. Furthermore, we investigated how physicians acquire knowledge on cannabinoid medication. MethodsWe asked physicians with expertise in the care of children with CP on their prescription practices of medical cannabinoids. Data was collected through an online survey, which was distributed by email. In addition to the demographic information of participants, we also inquired about the indications for the prescription of cannabinoids, about experiences regarding efficacy and the observed side effects of the therapy. ResultsSeventy physicians from Europe, North America and Australia completed the survey. Forty-seven participants were experienced in the treatment of children with cerebral palsy by cannabinoids. The most common indication was epilepsy (69%), followed by spasticity (64%) and pain (63%). The prescribed preparations and doses varied considerably. Half of the participants evaluated the effect of the medical cannabinoids as moderate. Twenty-nine physicians reported side effects, most frequently in the form of drowsiness (26%), somnolence (19%), fatigue (13%), and diarrhoea (13%). ConclusionsDespite the lack of evidence to date, medical cannabinoids are used to treat children with cerebral palsy in a wide variety of indications. Randomized controlled trials in this vulnerable patient group are therefore of utmost importance. Highlights- Cannabinoids are frequently used in children with CP, despite weak evidence. - Cannabinoids are prescribed in children with CP for different indications. - The most common indications are epilepsy, spasticity, and pain. - Common acute side effects are drowsiness, somnolence, fatigue, diarrhoea, and nausea. - Long-term side effects of cannabinoids in children with CP were not observed.