If you struggle to fall asleep, you’re not alone. According to the CDC, 14.5% of U.S. adults have difficulty falling asleep most days. Given the prevalence of sleep difficulties, it’s no surprise that in 2020, the CDC found that 8.4% of American adults took some form of sleep medication.
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the brain that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. It works by utilizing the body’s biological mechanisms to bring about sleep.
Cannabis is another substance some individuals report using to support sleep. Due to the popularity of both melatonin and cannabis, some may wonder if they can be combined safely.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the brain. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s sleep cycles. When it gets dark, the body increases the natural production of melatonin to induce sleep. In the morning, once the eyes begin to detect light, the body slows down its production of melatonin. This signals the body to wake up.
While the body produces its own melatonin, it doesn’t always make enough to facilitate sleep consistently and successfully. Individuals who struggle to fall asleep might consider taking melatonin supplements. These supplements increase melatonin levels, which may help signal the body that it’s time to rest.
Some people use melatonin to support sleep during certain circumstances, such as:
- Insomnia
- Jet lag
- Traumatic brain injury
- Neurological and neurodegenerative disorders
- Trouble sleeping related to working late or night shifts
Combining Cannabis and Melatonin: What the Latest Research Says
There is little research on combining THC and melatonin.
The most significant risk associated with using this combination is experiencing excessive drowsiness or feeling tired beyond the point of waking up in the morning. However, more severe side effects could also occur.
The intended effect of combining cannabis and melatonin is often to promote drowsiness. Some users report stronger drowsiness when combining melatonin and cannabis, but effects vary by individual, and more research is needed.
Some products marketed for sleep troubles combine cannabinoids, often hemp-derived CBD, with melatonin. However, because the level of drowsiness can be unpredictable, it is generally recommended to speak with a doctor if you're considering combining the two. Additionally, consumers should avoid driving or using heavy machinery if using melatonin with CBD, THC, or other cannabinoids.
Are You Considering Using Cannabis and Melatonin?
Combining cannabis with any substance or medication carries its own risks. Cannabis research is still in its earliest stages, and there is a lot that researchers still don't know. That leaves the door open for unexpected interactions with other substances. If you are considering combining cannabis with any other substance or medication, speak to your doctor for proper medical guidance.
Likewise, stopping the use of a prescribed medication can lead to unintended consequences. Many medications take time to build up in the body. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant and potentially serious or even fatal side effects. If you'd like to stop using or replace a medication, you need to follow the guidance of your medical provider to make any approved adjustments safely.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
