Weed And Sleep: The Rem-Sleep Connection

Marijuana use can decrease the duration of REM sleep. REM sleep is when we do our most active dreaming, and when the brain does a lot of memory processing and consolidation of acquired information, as well as the processing of emotional experiences. Altered REM sleep may have implications for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation.

Research suggests that heavy cannabis use, especially on a long-term basis, may have consequences for sleep, including less time spent in deep sleep, longer time to fall asleep, and less time spent in REM sleep.

Cannabis may decrease REM sleep

Marijuana use can decrease the duration of REM sleep. Altered REM sleep may have implications for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation.

REM sleep is important for healthy cognitive and immune functioning, and cannabis with higher THC levels could impair your sleep quality if taken long term. Interrupted REM sleep may have negative effects on mood regulation and memory.

Healthcare professionals generally discourage the long-term use of any sleep aid, including cannabis.

THC is the main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis

THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It is responsible for the "high" feeling associated with cannabis use. THC binds with the cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors in the brain, producing a high or a sense of euphoria. It also stimulates the parts of the brain that respond to pleasure and releases the body's "feel-good" hormone, dopamine.

THC has a range of therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, and has sedative effects. It can be consumed by smoking cannabis or through oils, edibles, tinctures, capsules, and more. The herbal variety of THC is the most popular and is made from dried cannabis leaves and flowers or buds, which can be smoked or added to food and drinks. Hash is another variety, which is a solid or paste-like substance made by compressing or purifying the resin from the buds. Hash oil is the most potent form and is made by extracting the resin from hash into its purest form.

THC has been shown to decrease the duration of REM sleep and increase deep, slow-wave sleep and the lighter stages of non-REM sleep. While it typically acts as a sedative, THC can have a stimulating effect for some people, especially those new to cannabis use or taking higher doses. In these cases, using cannabis before bed may result in a longer time falling asleep.

Research suggests that heavy, long-term cannabis use may have consequences for sleep, including less time spent in deep sleep and longer time to fall asleep. It may also reduce the volume of grey matter in the brain and increase the risk of chronic bronchitis.

Overall, THC is the main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, producing a range of effects on the user, including therapeutic benefits and negative side effects, particularly with heavy or long-term use.

REM sleep is important for healthy cognitive and immune functioning

REM sleep is a critical stage of the sleep cycle, characterised by rapid eye movements, heightened brain activity, and vivid dreams. It is essential for maintaining cognitive and emotional well-being, as well as physical restoration.

REM sleep accounts for about 20-25% of total sleep time for adults, which is approximately 90-120 minutes per night. During this stage, the brain processes emotions and experiences from the day, helping to maintain emotional balance and mental health. It also plays a vital role in memory consolidation and learning. The brain commits new information to long-term memory and decides which memories to retain and which to delete.

REM sleep is also when the brain develops, which is why newborns spend most of their sleep in this stage. The amount of REM sleep needed decreases as we age, but it remains crucial throughout our lives.

A good night's sleep, including adequate REM sleep, is necessary for optimal cognitive and immune functioning. Studies have shown that REM sleep deprivation can interfere with memory formation and the brain's ability to generate new cells. Chronic REM sleep deprivation has been linked to health issues such as an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

Additionally, the immune system and sleep are closely linked. Sleep deprivation can make the body more susceptible to infectious agents, and the immune system releases immunomodulators in response to infections during sleep. Therefore, sufficient and quality sleep is essential for a healthy immune system.

Long-term cannabis use may negatively impact brain function development

Long-term cannabis use may also have unwanted effects on the brain, including difficulty with learning, memory, and focus. Experts agree that people under the age of 25 are at greater risk for long-term consequences.

Cannabis withdrawal can cause significant sleep disturbances

During withdrawal, the brain's REM sleep rebounds after being suppressed by regular cannabis use, leading to intense and bizarre dreams. This disruption to the natural sleep-wake cycle can cause people to wake up in the middle of the night and struggle to fall back asleep.

The effects of cannabis withdrawal on sleep are temporary, but they can be unpleasant and even lead to relapse. It is important to prioritize sleep during this time to give the body and mind the best chance to recover and move forward. Regulating the sleep-wake cycle, cultivating a calming pre-sleep ritual, optimizing the sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants and alcohol before bed can help mitigate these disturbances.

Frequently asked questions