
05/09/2025
🌙 Cannabis Shows Long-Term Benefits for Chronic Insomnia
A new 18-month study published in PLOS Mental Health suggests that cannabis-based medical treatments may help people with chronic insomnia sleep better—and stay better over time.
Researchers followed 124 patients prescribed medical cannabis and found:
✔️ Improved sleep quality
✔️ Reduced anxiety and depression
✔️ Lower pain levels
Unlike many traditional sleep medications, side effects were mild—mainly fatigue or dry mouth—and usually temporary.
📊 What makes this study stand out is its long-term scope. Most insomnia trials last only weeks, but this research tracked patients for a year and a half. The improvements held steady throughout, offering rare real-world evidence that cannabis treatments could provide sustainable relief.
The research team, led by Arushika Aggarwal (Imperial College London), notes that more randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy. Still, their findings suggest cannabis-based therapies could fill a crucial treatment gap—especially for patients who haven’t found relief with existing options.
With millions worldwide struggling with chronic insomnia, medical cannabis may represent a new frontier in personalized, long-term care. 🌱💤
Source: “UK Medical Cannabis Registry: A clinical outcomes analysis for insomnia” by Arushika Aggarwal, Simon Erridge, Isaac Cowley, et al., PLOS Mental Health, 27 August 2025