Efficacy of cannabinoids for insomnia and sleep disturbance: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Sleep MedAug 6, 2026 (epub)
Rabia Asim, Bazil Azeem, Syed Ali Wijdan et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of cannabinoids for insomnia in 2134 adults across ten randomized controlled trials. Cannabinoids significantly reduced insomnia severity (MD -3.73) and improved sleep quality (MD -3.94), with total sleep time increasing by 33.99 minutes. Adverse events were more common but mostly mild.
Key findings
- Cannabinoids reduced insomnia severity by a mean difference of -3.73.
- Sleep quality improved with a mean difference of -3.94.
- Total sleep time increased by 33.99 minutes.
- Adverse events occurred more frequently with cannabinoids (RR 3.96).
Why it matters
The findings suggest cannabinoids may serve as an effective alternative for managing insomnia, particularly for patients who experience tolerance or dependency on standard hypnotics. Understanding their efficacy and safety profile is crucial for clinicians considering treatment options.