In a ground-breaking initiative, researchers are embarking on a world-first trial to investigate the therapeutic potential of cannabis in alleviating chronic insomnia, a condition that affects one in three Australians....
In a ground-breaking initiative, researchers are embarking on a world-first trial to investigate the therapeutic potential of cannabis in alleviating chronic insomnia, a condition that affects one in three Australians. Conducted by experts at the University of Western Australia (UWA), this study aims to provide solutions to the pervasive issue of sleep disorders.
Professor Peter Eastwood, the lead researcher of the UWA study, expresses optimism about the potential of cannabis as a remedy. He notes, "If it is as safe as people hope, if it works as well as people hope, then it could be a game changer, not just for insomnia, but for a range of health problems." The sedative properties of medicinal cannabis hold promise as an alternative to existing medications currently available in the market.
One of the primary concerns with conventional sleep medications is their potential for addiction and side effects. Professor Eastwood highlights this issue, stating, "The problem with those is they can be addictive and they can have side effects - they work but you do not want to be using those things long term."
The trial involves a group of 24 adults, aged between 25 and 70, who have been grappling with insomnia for a minimum of three months. These participants will be administered an oil formulation containing cannabis for two weeks, followed by a seven-day interval without cannabis, and then another two weeks with the oil devoid of cannabis. Each participant will receive a drop of the oil under their tongue one hour before bedtime. The quality of sleep will be meticulously monitored using specialised watches and through three overnight stays at a sleep centre.
The economic impact of sleep disorders is substantial, costing the Australian economy an estimated $18 billion annually in lost work hours. This trial offers hope not only to individuals struggling with insomnia but also to the broader economy.
Anticipated results from this pioneering trial are expected to emerge by the conclusion of the year, potentially heralding a new era in the treatment of chronic insomnia through the use of cannabis-based therapies.
