New research shows that using cannabis prior to sleeping has a negligible effect on different performance measures the next day, including psychomotor and cognitive function tasks, simulated driving and even mood.
The study, which obtained data from a bigger study exploring the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on insomnia, examined outcomes from 20 adults with insomnia who rarely used cannabis. The study was carried out by 11 investigators from Macquarie University in Sydney, Johns Hopkins University, Griffith University, Royal Prince Alfred hospital and the University of Sydney.
For the study, the investigators administered either 2 ml of marijuana oil containing 200 mg CBD and 10 mg THC or a placebo to each participant. During the second session, those who received a placebo were given the marijuana oil mixture, while individuals who had previously gotten the mixture received the placebo.
THC and CBD are the two primary compounds found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t induce a high when ingested. The amount of THC administered was based on previous studies, which had demonstrated that 10 mg THC administered orally induced varied effects without altering psychomotor or cognitive performance among individuals who rarely used marijuana.
After each session, the investigators administered cognitive tests roughly 2 hours after each participant woke up. They also used a fixed-base driving simulator to measure driving performance about 10 hours after the drugs/placebo had been administered. Furthermore, participants were asked to describe the effects they experienced at baseline, then after half an hour, 10 hours, 12 hours, 14 hours, 16 hours and 18 hours.
In their report, the investigators stated that none of the cognitive tests carried out which involved working memory, speed of processing information and attention, among other domains, demonstrated next-day effects of the two marijuana compounds. They explained that their findings indicated that marijuana had a minimal effect in adults with physician-diagnosed insomnia.
In addition, the researchers noted that while there were legitimate concerns that the use of marijuana at night as a sleep aid could cause impaired function the next day, their findings demonstrated no differences in performance in tests conducted on these sensitive tasks. Conversely, they observed that sedative-hypnotics which are commonly prescribed, such as zopiclone and benzodiazepine, did impair individual function the next day.
The investigators acknowledged in their report that their findings were based on one dose of marijuana oil, adding that they used a small sample size for their research. The investigators reported their findings in the “Psychopharmacology” journal.
Marijuana industry actors such as Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) are likely glad that these findings have been published since the results of the study address some of the concerns consumers may have had about the likely impact of cannabis use during their off-duty hours.
About CannabisNewsWire
CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN
