Miya Pearson
Marijuana or cannabis is often used to treat sleep disorders such as insomnia, especially for those who experience secondary conditions such as chronic pain, restless legs, PTSD, or MS. However, the effects of THC and CBD on sleep are still being studied, and while it may help some people fall asleep faster, it can also negatively impact sleep quality. For example, THC decreases the amount of time spent in REM sleep, which is when the body spends more time dreaming, processing emotions, and cementing new memories. While short-term cannabis use may increase the time spent in non-REM sleep, making people feel more refreshed in the morning, long-term use may lead to more awakenings and fragmented sleep. Regular marijuana use can also increase the risk of heart attacks and lead to sleep issues such as insomnia and sleep apnea.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of THC for sleep | Evidence of the effectiveness of THC for sleep is mixed. While it may have benefits in the short term, experts believe it could worsen sleep quality in the long term. |
| THC's impact on sleep quality | THC can decrease the amount of time spent in REM sleep, which is when people spend more time dreaming, processing emotions, and forming new memories. |
| THC's impact on sleep problems | Daily THC users are more likely to report sleep problems than occasional users or non-users. THC can also increase the risk of insomnia when withdrawing from nightly use. |
| THC's impact on sleep duration | THC can increase the likelihood of sleeping nine or more hours a night, which has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. |
| THC's impact on specific sleep disorders | THC may help with sleep apnea, PTSD-related nightmares, and chronic pain. However, there is limited research, and some organizations oppose its use for sleep apnea due to unreliable delivery methods and insufficient evidence. |
| THC's impact on sleep compared to CBD | CBD may promote alertness at lower doses and sleepiness at higher doses. CBD can be helpful for sleep but may be less effective in higher doses. |
| THC's impact on sleep compared to prescription medications | THC may be sought as a natural alternative to prescription sleep medications, which are associated with adverse effects such as addiction and dependence. |
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What You'll Learn
THC's impact on sleep is dose-dependent
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It typically acts as a sedative, but it can have a stimulating effect for some people, especially those new to cannabis or taking higher doses. In these cases, using cannabis before bed may result in a longer time falling asleep.
Several studies have found a link between daily cannabis use and increased sleep problems. A study on French university students found a two-fold higher likelihood of insomnia among daily cannabis users. Another study on college students found a day-level dose-dependent relationship, where greater alcohol and cannabis consumption on a given day led to shorter sleep that night.
The effects of THC on sleep can vary depending on the individual, the method of ingestion, and the dosage and timing of administration. Some people may experience improved sleep with THC, while others may find their sleep worsens. It is important to consult a doctor before using THC for sleep, as the research is still ongoing.
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THC may worsen sleep quality in the long term
While THC may have short-term benefits for sleep, it may worsen sleep quality in the long term. Evidence of the drug's effectiveness for sleep is mixed. On the one hand, THC typically acts as a sedative, helping people fall asleep faster and improving sleep quality in the first part of the night. On the other hand, it can have a stimulating effect for some people, especially those new to cannabis or taking higher doses, and may result in a longer time falling asleep.
THC can decrease the amount of time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, when people spend more time dreaming, processing emotions, and cementing new memories. While decreasing REM sleep may have benefits for people with PTSD, as nightmares are a common symptom, it can also lead to more awakenings and fragmented sleep in the second part of the night.
Studies have found a distinction between daily THC users and less frequent, non-daily users in how cannabis affects their sleep. Those who use THC daily are more likely to report sleep problems than occasional users or non-users. This may be due to the propensity to relapse after a short abstinent period, as well as the decreased metabolism in the OFC associated with discontinuation of THC use.
Additionally, the increased potency of THC today compared to when many studies on cannabis and sleep were conducted may be a factor in worsening sleep quality over time. The discussion about the effects of THC on sleep is very personal and depends on factors such as the dose, timing, and method of ingestion.
If you are experiencing sleep problems due to THC use, consider reducing your THC intake or opting for a non-THC product, such as pure CBD derived from hemp. Consult your doctor to determine the best course of action for improving your sleep quality.
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THC can help with sleep in certain conditions
While the effects of THC on sleep may vary, it can help with sleep in certain conditions. THC typically acts as a sedative, and its analgesic properties may provide relief for people with chronic pain. THC can also reduce REM sleep, which may be beneficial for people with PTSD, as it can decrease nightmares and improve overall sleep quality.
THC can also help restore the natural sleep cycle, and its anti-anxiety properties can soothe a stressed mind and body. A sleep psychologist at the University of Michigan Health, Dr. Deirdre Conroy, supports this claim. She states that "in the short term, [marijuana] does help people fall asleep and improves sleep quality in the first part of the night".
THC may also be more effective for people who experience sleep disturbances due to conditions such as restless leg syndrome, PTSD, or MS. Additionally, THC derivatives have been shown to improve self-reported sleep scores. Synthetic forms of THC have also shown potential in treating obstructive sleep apnea.
The effects of THC on sleep may depend on the type of cannabis used, the dosage, and the method of ingestion. For example, smoking or vaping cannabis may have a faster onset of action compared to ingesting it. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and method of ingestion for your specific needs.
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THC may increase the risk of heart attacks
While THC can be beneficial for sleep in the short term, long-term use may worsen sleep problems. THC typically acts as a sedative, but it can have a stimulating effect for some people, especially those new to cannabis or taking higher doses. In these cases, using cannabis before bed may result in a longer time falling asleep.
Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Events: Observational studies, including one supported by the National Institutes of Health, suggest that frequent cannabis smoking may significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The study found that daily cannabis use was associated with a 25% higher likelihood of heart attacks and a 42% increased risk of strokes compared to non-use. Less frequent use also posed risks, with weekly users showing a 3% higher likelihood of heart attacks.
Inflammation and Atherosclerosis: THC has been found to promote inflammation and hallmarks of atherosclerosis, which is the thickening of blood vessel walls due to plaque buildup. This can lead to an increased risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and life-threatening arrhythmias.
Inappropriate Activation of CB1 Receptors: THC binds to CB1 receptors in the human brain, heart, and vasculature system. However, frequent marijuana use can lead to inappropriate activation of these receptors, causing inflammation and increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Cardiovascular Risks Similar to Tobacco: The American Heart Association has reported that smoking cannabis can lead to a 36% higher risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack, or stroke in men under 55 and women under 65, regardless of tobacco use. This finding highlights that cannabis smoke contains similar toxins to tobacco smoke, indicating significant cardiovascular risks.
Limited Research: It is important to note that THC is a controlled substance, and the long-term health effects of regular use are not yet fully understood. As cannabis use increases and tobacco use decreases, researchers expect to see a rise in heart attacks and strokes associated with cannabis consumption.
While THC may offer short-term benefits for sleep, the potential long-term risks to cardiovascular health are concerning. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of THC on the cardiovascular system and to develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
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THC may cause sleep issues in regular users
While THC typically acts as a sedative, it can have a stimulating effect on some people, especially those new to cannabis or taking higher doses. In such cases, cannabis use before bed may result in a longer time falling asleep.
THC may decrease the amount of time spent in REM sleep, which is when people spend more time dreaming, processing emotions, and cementing new memories. Decreasing REM sleep may benefit people with PTSD, as nightmares are a common symptom. However, THC can also increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and long-term use may lead to atherosclerosis, diabetes, and coronary artery disease.
THC can cause sleep issues in regular users, with one study finding that daily users reported more sleep problems than occasional users or non-users. Another study found that higher THC-COOH levels upon admission were correlated with a greater decline in total sleep time from the first night to the second.
Additionally, THC can worsen overall sleep quality, with users spending more time in bed but waking up less rested due to trouble falling and staying asleep, and reduced time in slow-wave sleep. THC withdrawal can also lead to insomnia, and while THC may help with sleep in the short term, it may worsen sleep issues in the long term.
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Frequently asked questions
THC typically acts as a sedative, but it can have a stimulating effect for some people, especially those who are new to using cannabis or taking higher doses. Evidence of the drug’s effectiveness for sleep is mixed. While THC may help people fall asleep faster, it can also reduce the amount of time spent in REM sleep, which is important for dreaming, processing emotions, and cementing new memories.
Yes, THC can worsen sleep problems, especially with regular use. THC can decrease overall sleep quality, leading to more time spent in bed but less restorative sleep. It can also increase the risk of insomnia, especially with nightly use and abrupt discontinuation.
Cannabidiol (CBD), which can be derived from hemp, is often marketed for its sleep-promoting effects. While CBD may promote alertness at lower doses, it can induce sleepiness at higher doses. Other alternatives to THC include H1-antagonists, benzodiazepines, and hypnotics. However, many of these medications have their own side effects and risks, so consulting a doctor is important.
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