The Role of Cannabis and The Endocannabinoid System in Sleep Regulation and Cognition: A Review of Human and Animal Studies

ABSTRACT

Objectives

Both sleep and cognition are partially modulated by the endocannabinoid (ECB) system. Cannabis has been reported to have effects on sleep and cognition. This review aims to summarize the recent literature on the ECB system, the role of cannabis and the ECB system on sleep regulation and cognition. Further, this review will identify existing gaps in knowledge and suggest potential targets for future research.

Methods

We performed this review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Reports were identified by searching PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO for articles published through September 2021 for studies with data available on aspects of cognition, cannabis, or the ECB system, and sleep or circadian rhythms (CRs).

Results

We identified 6 human and 6 animal studies to be eligible for inclusion in this review. Several human studies found that cannabis use is not associated with changes in sleep quality or cognitive function. However, individual cannabinoids appeared to have independent effects on cognition and sleep; THC alone decreased cognitive performance and increased daytime sleepiness, whereas CBD alone had no effect on sleep or cognition. Animal studies demonstrated that manipulation of the ECB system altered activity and cognitive function, some of which appeared to be dependent on the light/dark cycle.

Conclusion

The sleep-wake cycle and CRs are both likely modulated by the ECB system, potentially resulting in effects on cognition, however this area is critically understudied.

Disclosure statement

SAI is a consultant for Eisai, Idorsia, Merck.

Supplementary material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at https://doi.org/10.1080/15402002.2023.2232497

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the following National Institutes of Health grants: .R01 DA043535 (WP/JY) and R01 DA051295.