In recent years, an increasing number of individuals are turning to cannabis as an alternative solution for sleep-related issues, as revealed by a 2023 study published in the journal Exploration of Medicine. With cannabis regulations now in 47 states and the District of Columbia for medical and/or recreational use, there’s a growing curiosity about its benefits for sleep.
Researchers have explored how cannabis influences sleep compared to prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) sleeping pills, scrutinizing usage patterns and preferred cannabis types.
- Sleep Improvement: Over 80% of respondents noted that cannabis helped them sleep by inducing relaxation in both mind and body, with more than half experiencing a deeper sleep.
- Sleep Duration: 42% reported extended sleep duration, and 36% mentioned uninterrupted sleep, showcasing cannabis as a potential aid for various sleep-related issues.
- Comparisons to Sleep Medications: Survey results revealed that 63% achieved 6-8 hours of sleep per night using only cannabis, compared to 20% or less when combining cannabis with sleep medicines, using sleep medications alone, or employing no sleep aids.
Insomnia, a common concern prompting individuals to inquire about cannabis with their doctors, is met with mixed research results. While anecdotal reports highlight cannabis’s efficacy in reducing insomnia symptoms, scientific findings remain inconclusive.
When it comes to restless leg syndrome, evidence supporting cannabis benefits is scarce. Nevertheless, researchers maintain optimism about cannabis’s potential in treating this sleep disorder, spurred by anecdotal accounts of significant symptom improvement post-cannabis use.
Researchers propose that cannabis might hold promise for individuals dealing with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, caution is advised by experts who highlight the current lack of evidence demonstrating the safety and efficacy of cannabis for OSA treatment.
Side Effects & Frequency
Cannabis use has been linked to various adverse health and safety effects, regardless of the longevity or stage one starts. These effects can encompass an elevated risk of addiction to marijuana and other substances, an increased likelihood of motor vehicle accidents, and potential cardiovascular complications in individuals who, on the surface, seem healthy. Chronic bronchitis has also been associated with cannabis use.
Additionally, using marijuana may contribute to the use of other drugs, abnormal brain development, and an increased risk of mental health issues such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. There’s also a low but associated risk of lung cancer and other cancers linked to cannabis use. Because of its wide ranges of side effects, it is crucial to be aware of these potential side effects and consider them when making decisions about cannabis use.
While the journey into cannabis as a treatment for sleep disorders is characterized by limited research, the growing body of anecdotal evidence and ongoing studies underscore its potential. Navigating the complexities of cannabis’s effects on various sleep disorders requires research to understand the research as it unfolds into a clearer picture of cannabis’s role in the area of sleep therapy.
Despite its potential benefits, cannabis usage does come with side effects, such as anxiety and irritability. Nevertheless, participants noted feeling more focused and relaxed the morning after cannabis use compared to other sleep aids, which may entail side effects like dizziness and daytime drowsiness.
If you are suffering from sleep side effects in relation to usage of cannabis, connect with the Alaska Sleep Clinic for a free consultation.
