The Nelson teenager in an induced coma who has been given permission to receive Elixinol, a medicinal cannabis-based product, has opened his eyes but is still in a critical condition.
Wellington Hospital. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski
Alex Renton, 19, is in Wellington Hospital suffering from status epilepticus - an acute, prolonged epileptic seizure.
Two weeks' supply of Elixinol has been ordered but it is not yet known when it will arrive or what requirements it will be subject to, as this will be the first time the product has been imported into New Zealand.
The Capital and Coast District Health Board said it was difficult to interpret the significance of Mr Renton opening his eyes.
His mother, Rose, said he was responsive to voices and the sedation was being gently lifted in order to assess seizure activity.