Marijuana and sleep. There may be an impact on sleep quality and even the length of sleep for some patients. Some studies show short-term benefits like faster sleep onset and increased deep sleep, while long-term use is sometimes associated with sleep disturbances and poorer sleep quality. However, studies focused on supervised administration of medical marijuana show that, when the dose is monitored and the strain and delivery method are consistent, positive results in quality and length of sleep can be obtained.
In one study focused on University students, it was found that insomnia was more common among weekly and daily cannabis users, with a two-fold higher likelihood of insomnia in daily, heavy cannabis users. It is worth noting that this study was conducted using subjects that were not under the care of a medical marijuana physician, but were consuming recreational or illegally grown cannabis, resulting in the strength and strain not being consistent.
In a separate study on sleep and medical marijuana, published by the National Institutes of Health, it was found that medical marijuana actually improved sleep. Subjects in this study were all adults and had all experienced insomnia. In addition, all subjects were administered the same dose of Entoura-10:15 medicinal cannabis oil over the course of six weeks of this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study. Quality of sleep improved up to 80% in those receiving the cannabis oil, and midnight melatonin levels increased by up to 30%. Length of sleep also increased among those receiving the oil.
In a crossover study conducted to find out what long-term effects of daily consumption of cannabis on subjects aged 50 or older. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, after two weeks of nightly sublingual administration of a cannabinoid extract (ZTL-101), it was found that the extract was well tolerated and improved insomnia symptoms and sleep quality in individuals with chronic insomnia symptoms.
The question is asked, especially in states where recreational marijuana is available: Why do you need a medical marijuana doctor? When you are using marijuana to treat a medical condition, as shown in the results of the studies above, you can often get better results under the guidance of a medical marijuana doctor than going it on your own.
Medical marijuana doctors evaluate your unique medical history, specific symptoms, and existing conditions to determine if cannabis is a suitable treatment. This leads to a customized treatment plan that maximizes the therapeutic benefits for your particular needs.
The correct dosage is crucial for therapeutic effectiveness and minimizing side effects. A doctor can offer accurate dosage recommendations, the appropriate strain, potency (ratio of THC to CBD), and consumption method based on your tolerance and condition.
A medical professional will consider any potential drug interactions between cannabis and other medications you are taking, which is a key safety consideration.
Your medical marijuana doctor can offer ongoing monitoring, including tracking your progress, assessing the effectiveness of the treatment, and making necessary adjustments to the strain or dosage over time. This provides continuity of care and can increase the possibility of a positive outcome. Continuous support and education from your medical marijuana doctor can also provide better long-term outcomes.
Studies show that people who use cannabis to self-medicate for anxiety or depression are at greater risk of increased paranoia and dependence than recreational users. Access to reliable products available in legal medical programs is a huge factor in positive, consistent results. Medical marijuana doctors can guide you to reputable dispensaries that sell products with strict quality control. This ensures you receive safe products that are tested for contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals.
In addition to better outcomes in your treatment, a medical marijuana patient is also given legal protections. A doctor’s recommendation is required to participate in most states’ medical marijuana programs, including those in Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. This provides legal protection, as medical cannabis is still illegal under federal law. Without a medical card or proof of participation, you may also have more limited purchase and possession limits.
While studies of medical marijuana are ongoing, the studies that use medical marijuana are far more positive than studies based on recreational or illegally grown marijuana. Especially when the product and dosage are supervised by a knowledgeable medical marijuana doctor.
If you’re ready to get started on your healing journey with medical marijuana, our doctors are standing by to help you achieve the most positive outcomes possible. Contact us or click the button below to get started!
