Can CBD Treat Sleep Apnea? An Expert Weighs In

December 16, 2021
CBD Oil

It seems like CBD is everywhere. Lotions, creams, oils, and even lattes with CBD in them are all the rage. Some people are even turning to CBD to find relief from obstructive sleep apnea. But can it really help? In this article, a sleep medicine expert discusses what CBD is, whether it might be able to treat sleep apnea, and how you can find sure relief from your sleep problems.

What Is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It’s a compound derived from the cannabis sativa plant, which is also known as marijuana or hemp. CBD is not psychoactive, which means that it cannot get you high. A separate compound in the marijuana plant, THC, is what is responsible for the plant’s mind-altering properties.

CBD’s Uses

Research has established that CBD has a number of useful applications:

  • It can relieve pain
  • It may help relieve anxiety and depression
  • It may alleviate cancer-related symptoms
  • It could help to reduce acne
  • It might benefit heart health
  • And more

There is even some evidence to suggest that CBD can be used as a treatment for insomnia. And, as mentioned at the outset of this article, it has even been used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, any evidence that supports CBD as a therapy for sleep apnea is purely anecdotal. Some people may have found a degree of relief from it, but there have not been any extensive studies that delve into its use as a therapy for OSA.

Should You Try It?

If you are currently using a CPAP machine to treat your OSA, and you find the machine to be uncomfortable, CBD might seem like an attractive alternative. Giving try will probably not harm you — and it may even help. However, there are some cautions that you should keep in mind:

  • CBD may have side effects. Diarrhea, changes in appetite and weight, fatigue are all known possible side effects of CBD.
  • CBD can interact with certain medications. It may slow down the metabolism of certain drugs, particularly drugs with a “grapefruit” warning.
  • CBD could affect the liver. Some studies show a connection between CBD and liver toxicity (if the CBD is taken in extremely large doses).

Finding Real Relief from OSA

The best thing you can do to find real relief from sleep apnea is consult with a qualified doctor. You can ask them about whether you should try CBD, and you can discuss other, proven CPAP alternatives, such as oral appliance therapy or lifestyle changes. A better night’s sleep may be within your reach!

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Mogell, a board-certified specialist in sleep medicine with over 10 years of experience treating sleep breathing disorders is the practice’s founder and primary practitioner. The practice has three South Florida locations: Melbourne, Vero Beach, and Boca Raton. To learn more about Florida Dental Sleep Disorders and Dr. Kenneth Mogell, contact our team at 844-294-7559. We accept Medicare, Tricare and most medical insurance!