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The Effects of Cannabinoids on Sleep
Bhanu Prakash Kolla1, Lisa Hayes2, Chaun Cox2
1Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
Journal of Primary Care & Community Health
|April 23, 2022
Summary
Cannabis products may not improve sleep and can cause withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, and mood changes. Further research is needed on cannabinoids and sleep disorders.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sleep Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Public use of cannabis products for medical conditions, including sleep, has increased.
- Cannabis withdrawal can precipitate sleep disturbances and associated mental health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the existing literature on cannabis products and their effects on sleep.
- To evaluate the impact of cannabis on normal sleep, circadian rhythms, and various sleep disorders.
- To discuss cannabis withdrawal effects on sleep and potential relapse.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of observational studies and randomized controlled trials on cannabis and sleep.
- Analysis of cannabis psychoactive compounds, legal status, side effects, and drug interactions.
- Examination of effects on insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, sleep apnea, parasomnias, and restless legs syndrome.
Main Results:
- Limited evidence supports cannabis products for sleep improvement; some individuals may experience adverse effects.
- Cannabis withdrawal can lead to significant insomnia, worsening anxiety, mood disturbances, and suicidal ideation.
- Cannabis products demonstrate minimal to no positive impact on established sleep disorders.
Conclusions:
- Cannabis products may have deleterious effects on sleep in some individuals.
- Clinicians should be aware of potential adverse effects and withdrawal symptoms associated with cannabis use.
- Further research is necessary to understand the differential effects of various cannabinoids on specific sleep disorders.
Keywords:
cannabidiolcannabisinsomniarapid eye movement sleep behavior disorderrestless legs syndromesleepsleep apneasleepinesstreatmentMore Related Videos
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