Medical cannabis and sleeping problems

Are you having trouble falling asleep? You’re not alone. Millions of people in the UK suffer from sleep disorders, and finding an effective treatment can be challenging. But have you considered medical cannabis? Since its legalisation in 2018, medical marijuana has gained attention as a potential solution for various health conditions, including sleep problems. In this blog post, we’ll explore how medical cannabis can help you get a better night’s rest, what you need to know before trying it, and how to obtain it legally through MARUCANNA.

What is medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis refers to the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts to treat specific health conditions. It contains active compounds called cannabinoids, primarily:

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive (it won’t get you “high”) and known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects.
• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Psychoactive, with sedative properties that can aid sleep.

These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a network that regulates sleep, mood, appetite, and more. In the UK, medical cannabis is legal but tightly controlled; it can only be prescribed by specialist doctors for conditions like chronic insomnia or sleep disorders linked to pain or anxiety.

How can medical cannabis help with sleep?

Medical cannabis can improve sleep in several ways, depending on your needs:

• Promotes Relaxation: CBD reduces anxiety and stress—two common barriers to falling asleep. Its soothing effects can help quiet a racing mind.
• Regulates Sleep Patterns: THC can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep and increase the duration of deep sleep, which is vital for feeling refreshed.
• Relieves Pain: If pain keeps you awake, both CBD and THC can offer relief, allowing you to stay asleep longer.

The choice between CBD, THC, or a combination depends on your symptoms. For example, someone with anxiety-related insomnia might prefer CBD, while someone needing stronger sedation might benefit from THC. Research, like a study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, has shown cannabis can significantly improve sleep quality for those with insomnia.

What forms of medical cannabis are available?

Medical cannabis comes in various forms, each with unique benefits for sleep:

• Oils: When applied under the tongue, they quickly absorb and provide fast-acting relief before bed.
• Capsules: Taken orally, capsules release slowly, helping maintain sleep throughout the night.
• Edibles: Such as gummies, these are discreet but less predictable due to digestion times.

People often recommend oils and capsules for sleep because they provide a consistent dose and are simple to incorporate into a bedtime routine.

What should you consider before using medical cannabis?

Despite its potential, medical cannabis is not a universally applicable solution. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Side Effects: Possible effects include dizziness, dry mouth, or changes in appetite. THC may also cause drowsiness or mild euphoria.
• Drug Interactions: It can affect other medications, such as sedatives or antidepressants, so check with your doctor.
• Dosage: Start with a low dose and increase gradually under medical supervision to find what works for you.
• Legality: It’s only available via prescription in the UK, over-the-counter cannabis products (like CBD oils from shops) aren’t the same as medical-grade cannabis.

Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your situation.

How to get medical cannabis in the UK with MARUCANNA

In the UK, medical cannabis requires a prescription from a specialist doctor. Once you have one, MARUCANNA makes the process straightforward. Here’s how it works:

1. Please send us your prescription

• Request that your clinic or pharmacy send MARUCANNA a physical copy of your prescription.
• If they can’t, post it yourself. Photocopies or scans aren’t accepted, the law requires the original.
• Your prescription is valid for 28 days from the issue date. If it expires, contact your clinic for a new one.

2. Purchase your cannabis prescription

• After MARUCANNA receives your prescription, they’ll email you a payment link.
• Pay online with a credit card via PayPal.

3. We’ll bring your medicine to you

• A courier will schedule your delivery and provide a tracking number.
• Not home? Please consider rescheduling with the courier or using their app for updates.
• You’ll need to sign for the delivery to confirm receipt.

4. Schedule a repeat prescription appointment on your calendar

• Note when your supply will run low, MARUCANNA recommends booking your next prescription 10 days before you run out.
  • Find out from your clinic whether you need a follow-up visit or if you can get a new prescription directly.

Are you eligible for medical cannabis?

Are you uncertain about your eligibility? Visit MARUCANNA’s eligibility checker at https://marucanna.co.uk/check-eligibility/ to see if medical cannabis could be an option for you. Eligibility often depends on having a diagnosed condition (like chronic insomnia) and having tried other treatments without success.

The legal context in the UK

In November 2018, the UK legalised medical cannabis, but it’s not widely accessible. Only specialist doctors can prescribe it, and it’s typically considered when other treatments fail. Conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, or sleep disorders may qualify, but approval isn’t guaranteed. Always discuss your options with a healthcare professional.

Final thoughts

Medical cannabis offers a promising option for those battling sleep problems, especially when traditional remedies fall short. Whether it’s calming anxiety with CBD or inducing sleep with THC, its ability to regulate sleep patterns can be life-changing. However, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against potential side effects and follow the legal process. With MARUCANNA, obtaining your prescription is simple and secure. If sleepless nights are taking a toll on your life, talk to your doctor about whether medical cannabis could help you finally get the rest you deserve.