How does Marijuana disrupt your sleep?

Marijuana, particularly the component THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), can disrupt the architecture of sleep and block REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. Regular use of THC has been tied to a decrease in REM sleep, with users often noticing that they don't remember their dreams. When users stop THC consumption, they sometimes experience intense dreams, referred to as "REM rebound," where the brain tries to catch up on the REM sleep it's missed but never fully recovers all the lost REM sleep. This is because THC can lead to withdrawal dependency, causing severe rebound insomnia and, potentially, a dependency tolerance where more THC is required to attain the same sleep-inducing effects. Additionally, it's highlighted that while THC might expedite the onset of non-consciousness, it does not provide restful, restorative sleep 1 2 3.

Marijuana and Sleep

Andrew Huberman

Matt Walker

Matt explains that THC in marijuana can speed up the onset of non-consciousness, but it disrupts the architecture of sleep and blocks REM sleep. People using THC may not remember their dreams, but when they stop using it, they experience a rebound mechanism, leading to intense dreams.

Huberman Lab

Dr. Matthew Walker: The Science & Practice of Perfecting Your Sleep | Huberman Lab Podcast #31

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