Evaluating the Credibility and Reliability of Online Information on Cannabidiol (CBD) for Epilepsy Treatment

Abstract

Abstract The interest in potential therapeutic use of cannabis, especially cannabidiol (CBD) has increased significantly in recent years. On the Internet, the users can find lots of articles devoted to its medical features such as reducing seizure activity in epilepsy. The aim of our work was to evaluate the information contained on websites, including social media in terms of the credibility and the reliability of current knowledge about usage of products containing cannabidiol in epilepsy treatment. We used online available links found using the Newspointtool. The initial database included 38367 texts, but after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria the 314 texts were taken into consideration. Analysis was performed by using the DISCERN scale and the set of questions created by the authors. In the final assessment, we observed that most of the texts (58,9%) were characterized by a very poor level of reliability and the average DISCERN score was 26,97 points. Additionally, considering the form of the text, the highest average score (35,73) came from entries on blog portals, whereas the lowest average score (18,33) came from comments and online discussion forums. Moreover, most of the texts do not contain key information regarding the indications, safety, desired effects and side effects of CBD therapy. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals to guide patients towards reliable sources of information and cautions against the use of unverified online materials, especially as the only FDA-approved CBD medication, Epidiolex, differs significantly from over-the-counter CBD products.