Cannabis vs. Tablets: Long-Term Effectiveness for Insomnia Treatment

Medical Cannabis Shows Promise in Treating Chronic Insomnia, Study finds

September 3, 2025 – 10:56 PM

London, England – A significant portion of the adult population grapples with persistent Sleep problems, and a new study suggests that medical cannabis may offer a viable alternative to customary treatments.

The Challenge of Chronic Insomnia

Approximately one-third of people regularly experience Sleep disturbances, with roughly ten percent meeting the clinical criteria for chronic insomnia. While sleeping pills are commonly prescribed, they are not always effective and can carry a risk of dependence. This has prompted researchers to explore alternative therapies, with medical cannabis emerging as a potential solution.

Study Details and Findings

Researchers at imperial College London conducted a study involving 124 individuals diagnosed with clinical insomnia. Over an 18-month period, participants received medical cannabis as a treatment. The results revealed significant improvements in both Sleep quality and duration. Participants also reported reductions in symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as decreased pain levels.

However, the treatment wasn’t without side effects. approximately nine percent of participants experienced adverse reactions, including fatigue and dry mouth.

“This long-term study provided valuable insights beyond typical patient outcomes seen in short-term trials. Observing potential tolerance development over time highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and personalized treatment approaches,” stated a lead researcher involved in the study.

Cannabis as an Alternative to Sleeping Pills?

The findings suggest that cannabis-based medicines could potentially replace conventional sleeping pills, notably for patients who haven’t responded well to traditional therapies. Further clinical trials are necesary to confirm the safety and efficacy of cannabis in treating insomnia, but the initial results are encouraging.

Understanding Cannabis and Sleep

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating Sleep, mood, and pain. The specific effects of cannabis on Sleep can vary depending on the dose, strain, and individual factors.

Factor	Impact on Insomnia Treatment
Dose	Higher doses may induce more pronounced sedative effects.
strain	Indica strains are often associated with relaxation and Sleep.
Individual Factors	Tolerance, metabolism, and pre-existing conditions can all influence outcomes.

Did You Know? studies have shown that CBD may help reduce anxiety, a common contributor to insomnia.

Pro Tip: If considering cannabis for insomnia, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage and strain.

The Growing Acceptance of Cannabis for Medical Uses

The use of cannabis for medical purposes has been gaining acceptance worldwide. Several countries and states have legalized medical cannabis, allowing patients access to a range of cannabis-based products for conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.As research continues to uncover the potential benefits of cannabis, its role in healthcare is likely to expand.

long-Term Considerations for Cannabis Use

While cannabis shows promise for treating various conditions, it’s crucial to consider potential long-term effects. These include the development of tolerance, psychological dependence, and potential cognitive impairment. Responsible use and careful monitoring are essential to minimize these risks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis and Insomnia

Are you considering cannabis as a potential treatment for your insomnia? What questions do you have for your healthcare provider?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

What are the potential risks associated with long-term use of benzodiazepines for insomnia?

Understanding Chronic Insomnia & Treatment Approaches

Chronic insomnia, defined as difficulty falling or staying asleep at least three nights a week for three months or longer, impacts millions. While occasional sleeplessness is common, persistent insomnia considerably affects daily functioning, mood, and overall health. Treatment options broadly fall into two categories: pharmaceutical interventions (sleeping tablets) and alternative therapies, including cannabis. This article explores the long-term effectiveness of both approaches, considering benefits, risks, and current research. We’ll focus on long-term insomnia solutions and chronic sleep disorder management.

Sleeping Tablets: A deep Dive

Sleeping tablets, often categorized as hypnotics, are designed to induce sleep. Common types include:

Benzodiazepines: (e.g., temazepam, diazepam) – Historically popular, now less frequently prescribed due to higher risk of dependence and side effects.

Non-Benzodiazepine Hypnotics (Z-drugs): (e.g., zolpidem, zaleplon) – Designed to be more selective in their action, theoretically reducing dependence risk, but still carry potential for side effects.

Melatonin Receptor Agonists: (e.g., ramelteon) – Mimic the effects of melatonin, a natural sleep hormone.

Antidepressants with Sedating Effects: (e.g.,trazodone,amitriptyline) – Frequently enough used off-label for insomnia,particularly when co-occurring with depression or anxiety.

Long-Term Effectiveness & Concerns:

While effective in the short-term, the long-term effectiveness of sleeping tablets is frequently enough limited. Tolerance can develop, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. This increases the risk of:

1. Dependence: Psychological and physical dependence are important concerns, leading to withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.
2. Side Effects: Daytime drowsiness,dizziness,cognitive impairment,and complex sleep behaviors (sleepwalking,sleep-eating) are common.
3. Rebound Insomnia: Insomnia can return worse than before when medication is stopped.
4. Underlying Cause Neglect: Tablets often mask the symptoms of insomnia without addressing the root cause – be it stress,anxiety,depression,or poor sleep hygiene. Treating insomnia symptoms is different than treating insomnia causes.

Cannabis for Insomnia: Exploring the Evidence

The use of cannabis for insomnia is gaining attention, particularly with increasing legalization. Cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating sleep, mood, and pain.

how Cannabis May Help:

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Can have sedative effects,possibly reducing sleep latency (time to fall asleep). however,high doses can disrupt sleep architecture.

CBD (Cannabidiol): Generally non-intoxicating, CBD may reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, indirectly improving sleep.

Terpenes: Aromatic compounds in cannabis that contribute to its effects. Some terpenes, like myrcene and linalool, are known for their sedative properties.

Long-Term Effectiveness & Considerations:

Research on the long-term effectiveness of cannabis for insomnia is still evolving. New Zealand’s 2020 referendum, as summarized by the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor https://www.pmcsa.ac.nz/topics/cannabis/cannabis-at-a-glance/, highlighted the complexities of assessing cannabis’s impact.

variability: Effects vary significantly based on strain,dosage,method of consumption,and individual physiology.

Potential side effects: Anxiety, paranoia, impaired cognitive function, and potential for dependence (particularly with high-THC strains) are possible.

Sleep Architecture Disruption: THC can suppress REM sleep, which is crucial for cognitive function and emotional processing.

Legal Status: The legal status of cannabis varies widely, impacting access and research opportunities. Medical cannabis for sleep is becoming more accessible in some regions.

Cannabis vs. Tablets: A Comparative Look

| Feature | Sleeping Tablets | Cannabis |

|—|—|—|

| Short-Term Effectiveness | High | Moderate to High (depending on strain/dosage) |

| Long-Term Effectiveness | Limited, tolerance develops | Variable, more research needed |

| Dependence Risk | High (benzodiazepines, Z-drugs) | Moderate (THC-dominant strains) |

| Side Effects | Daytime drowsiness, cognitive impairment, rebound insomnia | Anxiety, paranoia, impaired cognition, REM sleep suppression |

| Addressing Root Cause | Typically does not | May address underlying anxiety/pain contributing to insomnia |

| Accessibility | generally readily available with prescription | Varies based on legal status |

Beyond Medication: Holistic Approaches to Insomnia

Regardless of whether you consider sleeping tablets or cannabis, a holistic approach to insomnia is crucial. This includes:

**Cognitive Behavioral