Difficult Sleeping Article

Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series

Source: 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Link: 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/

Article Summary: 
Formal studies on efficacy and dose finding are much needed. Some urgency exists, given the explosion of lay interest in this topic and the rush to market these compounds. Current understanding of the physiology and neurologic pathways points to a benefit with anxiety-related issues. The results of our clinical report support the existing scientific evidence. In our study, we saw no evidence of a safety issue that would limit future studies. In this evaluation, CBD appears to be better tolerated than routine psychiatric medications. Furthermore, CBD displays promise as a tool for reducing anxiety in clinical populations, but given the open-label and nonrandomized nature of this large case series, all results must be interpreted very cautiously. Randomized and controlled trials are needed to provide definitive clinical guidance. 

Article Abstract: 
Context: Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating cannabinoid derived from cannabis, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic effects in neuropsychiatric disorders without inducing psychoactive effects. Despite increasing interest, clinical evidence supporting its efficacy in psychiatric disorders remains limited.
Objective: This retrospective case series aimed to assess the impact of CBD on sleep and anxiety in a psychiatric clinic setting.
Design: A retrospective chart review was conducted involving 103 adult patients treated with CBD as an adjunct therapy for anxiety and sleep disorders. Monthly assessments tracked changes in anxiety and sleep scores using validated instruments.
Main Outcome Measures: Baseline and post-treatment anxiety and sleep scores were compared to evaluate the effects of CBD.
Results: The study included 72 adults primarily presenting with anxiety (n = 47) or sleep disturbances (n = 25). Within the first month of CBD treatment, anxiety scores decreased significantly in 79.2% of patients, sustaining improvement throughout the study period. Sleep scores improved initially in 66.7% of patients but showed variability over time. CBD was well tolerated, with only 3 patients experiencing adverse effects.
Conclusion: Cannabidiol shows promise as an adjunctive treatment for anxiety-related disorders based on this retrospective analysis. However, controlled clinical trials are essential to confirm these findings and establish CBD’s role in psychiatric care.