Sleep Disturbances: Implications for Cannabis Use, Cannabis Use Cessation, and Cannabis Use Treatment

Abstract

Cannabis may be used, among certain individuals, for its actual and/or perceived sleep-promoting properties. Although evidence suggests that cannabis is likely beneficial for sleep initiation, over time individuals may develop tolerance to these benefits, leading to greater use in order to maintain the same sleep-inducing effects. This form of use likely contributes to the development of problematic cannabis use patterns, including cannabis use disorders. Evidence also points to sleep as an important consideration in terms of understanding cannabis withdrawal and relapse. Here, sleep disturbances have been reported as a primary symptom of withdrawal, with studies revealing that this increase in sleep disruption during discontinuation of cannabis use may be a significant risk factor for relapse. Therefore, it is likely important to consider interventions aimed at providing alternative means to cope with and/or treat sleep disturbances (e.g., behavioral or pharmacological approaches) as adjuncts to interventions for cannabis use disorders to improve treatment outcomes.