Cannabinoids in Sleep and Sleep Disorders

In this episode of Mayo Clinic Sleep Medicine Podcasts, Dr. Bhanu Kolla, a Mayo Clinic specialist in sleep medicine and addiction medicine, joins host Dr. Michael Silber to discuss cannabinoids and their relationship to sleep. The conversation explores the body's endocannabinoid system and how compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) may influence sleep. The experts review current evidence on cannabis and sleep architecture, including its potential effects on different stages of sleep. The discussion also examines the available research on cannabis and several sleep disorders, including insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and REM sleep behavior disorder. Additional topics include potential risks and side effects of cannabis use, medication considerations, cannabis withdrawal, and how long cannabis may remain detectable in urine testing. Finally, the episode addresses an important question for both patients and healthcare professionals: Does current scientific evidence support the use of cannabis or cannabinoid-based products in the treatment of sleep disorders?