New Studies Challenge Cannabis Use for Better Sleep
Published On 15 Oct, 2026
9 News HD: New studies are raising questions about the use of cannabis to improve sleep. Many people use cannabis because they believe it helps them sleep better, but recent research suggests that its benefits may be limited.
A review of nine studies involving 537 adults found little clear evidence that medical cannabis can improve sleep in people with insomnia. Researchers said it did not show a clear benefit in sleep quality, total sleeping time, or daily activities compared with a placebo. The evidence was also limited, so more research is needed.
Another study published in October 2026 found that long-term cannabis use was linked to poorer sleep quality in middle-aged adults. Recent use was also linked to changes in sleep patterns. However, researchers found no clear link between cannabis use and how people rated their own sleep.
These findings do not mean cannabis never helps anyone sleep. Instead, they show that its effects can vary from person to person and that there is still not enough strong evidence to recommend it as a reliable way to treat sleep problems.
Researchers also say that the type of cannabis product, how much a person uses, and their health condition may affect the results. Some people may experience side effects, including dry mouth and dizziness.
People who regularly have trouble sleeping should speak with a healthcare professional to find the cause and discuss safe treatment options. More high-quality studies are needed to understand whether cannabis can help with sleep and what its long-term effects may be.
