Cannabis extracts effective in treating chronic insomnia

The short-term use of cannabis extracts has been found to improve sleep quality in patients with insomnia.

Plant-derived cannabis extracts were safe and effective for use in patients with chronic insomnia, according to a small placebo-controlled study.

Researchers assessed the use of a sublingual cannabis extract product (ZTL-101, produced by the Australian-based company Zerila Therapeutics) compared to a placebo in 23 subjects with chronic insomnia. 

Extracts contained percentages of plant-derived THC, CBD, and CBN as well as various terpenes. 

The placebo contained the same terpenes, but no cannabinoids, extracted from the same cannabis plant, to match ZTL-101 as closely as possible.

Subjects administered between 0.5ml and 1ml of the product, one hour before going to bed for a period of two weeks. 

Those consuming the cannabis extracts reported “significantly lower” Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) scores than the placebo controlled group.

Participants receiving the extracts said that they fell asleep faster, slept longer, and experienced improved sleep quality. No serious adverse events were reported.

Authors concluded: “This study has demonstrated that ZTL-101, a novel cannabinoid therapy, is well tolerated and improves insomnia symptoms and sleep quality in individuals with chronic insomnia symptoms.

“These improvements, observed over a two-week dosing period, are encouraging and support further investigation of ZTL-101 for the treatment of insomnia in studies with larger sample sizes.”