How Many CBD Gummies Should I Take for Sleep? - April 2024

What the Research Says About CBD Gummies and Sleep

According to research, cannabidiol (CBD) may be beneficial in managing sleep disorders⁽⁷⁾. CBD may also reduce anxiety levels⁽⁸⁾ and chronic pain⁽⁹⁾.

Anxiety is often linked to sleep problems⁽¹⁰⁾. Fear and anxiety make it difficult for individuals to fall and remain asleep. Sleep loss may exacerbate anxiety, creating a vicious cycle.

Chronic pain may also affect sleep⁽¹¹⁾. Certain sleeping positions or conditions may also worsen during the night.

Even though experts need to do more studies on the usage of CBD gummies for sleep, current research noted the following findings about CBD:

• Recent studies suggest cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may have therapeutic potential for treating insomnia⁽¹²⁾.Although the effects of cannabinoids like CBD and THC on sleep are not yet apparent, they have shown promise in managing sleep disorders, including excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep behavior disorder⁽¹³⁾.
• According to a survey, CBD users often use the substance in low dosages to manage self-perceived anxiety, stress, sleep, and other symptoms⁽¹⁴⁾. These patterns differ by demographic features.There is a need for additional study to determine the effect of CBD low dosages, indicative of the average consumer, on mental health symptoms such as stress, anxiety, and sleep problems⁽¹⁵⁾.
• RBD, or rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, is a prevalent non-motor characteristic of Parkinson’s disease (PD)⁽¹⁶⁾. Cannabidiol is one of the primary nonpsychoactive components of Cannabis sativa. CBD may offer a viable therapy option for RBD.In 33 individuals with RBD and PD, researchers performed a phase II/III, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study⁽¹⁷⁾. Patients were randomly assigned CBD in dosages ranging from 75 to 300mg or a placebo capsule. The subjects were observed for 14 weeks.CBD was shown not to affect RBD symptoms in PD patients when used as an additional medication⁽¹⁸⁾. However, a transitory increase in sleep satisfaction has been found with a 300mg dosage.

Everything About CBD Gummies: How Many CBD Gummies Should I Eat for Sleep?

Sleep: 10mg to 25mg

CBD gummies are simple to administer since each gummy has a specific amount of CBD content.  

The majority of doses for CBD gummies in the market are in the range of 10mg to 25mg of CBD. 

Consumers may find that CBD manufacturers often recommend taking one or two gummies every day on the instruction label. 

The number of gummies CBD users want to consume depends on their desired effects.

First-time CBD consumers may start with a low dose of CBD daily so their bodies can adjust to the compound.

If CBD users have not experienced any adverse side effects, they may gradually increase their CBD gummy intake.

Meanwhile, the onset time of CBD edibles like gummies is between 30 to 90 minutes, and the effect of CBD may last for 6 to 8 hours⁽¹⁹⁾.

Always choose reputable CBD brands that offer high-quality CBD products like CBD gummies. These companies are transparent with their customers, providing lab reports of all their items prepared by a third-party laboratory. 

Consumers must look for these lab results and follow the directions on the package for the suggested dosage.

If consumers experience any unwanted side effects, they should discontinue the use of CBD gummies immediately. Minor side effects of CBD include drowsiness and fatigue⁽²⁰⁾.  

Additionally, CBD users should see their doctor for medical advice before using CBD-infused supplements. This recommendation is crucial, especially if the users are experiencing a medical problem. 

Meanwhile, a physician versed in cannabis use may recommend a fine-tuned CBD dosage. 

CBD Dosage Chart for Gummies: 

There is no specific standard dosage chart for CBD or CBD gummies. 

As part of the drug approval process, products need to be evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to determine whether they work. Also, the FDA needs to check the appropriate dosage, how drugs may interact with other medications, or whether these drugs have dangerous side effects or other safety concerns⁽²¹⁾.

Also, CBD gummies manufacturers may suggest dosages or suggested numbers of gummies. However, note that the response to CBD may vary over time. Individuals need to evaluate the effects of the CBD dosage.

Suppose consumers notice that their medical condition worsens due to consuming CBD gummies. In that case, they need to visit their physician.

How to Calculate the Proper Dosage of CBD Gummies

Here are some methods on how a CBD user can calculate the proper dosage of CBD gummies:

Trial and Error: Starting With a Low CBD Dose 

Because genetics influence the efficacy of any drugs⁽²²⁾, what works for one patient may not work for another. Some individuals may need a lower CBD dose, while others may need a higher intake. It all depends on the person. 

Although the rule of thumb is to start with a low dose, still, individuals must consult a healthcare professional experienced in cannabis use for proper medical advice.

Note that CBD does not have a recognized adverse effect and toxicity⁽²³⁾. 

CBD Oil Dosage for Pain

CBD, in general, has shown promise in pain management⁽²⁴⁾. However, the possible results may vary depending on the type of pain.

Clinical research published in the Journal of Pain assessed the effectiveness of various Sativex dose levels, a cannabis-derived sublingual spray with a 1:1 CBD: THC ratio⁽²⁵⁾. 

There was a study that determined the analgesic effectiveness of adjunctive Sativex containing delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (27 mg/mL): cannabidiol (25 mg/mL) in advanced cancer patients with unresolved chronic pain despite optimized opioid therapy⁽²⁶⁾.

Post hoc analyses of the primary endpoints determined statistically favorable therapeutic effects for Sativex in U.S. patients over 65 years⁽²⁷⁾.

CBD Dosage for Anxiety (Mg)

Cannabidiol, infused in CBD products like CBD oil and CBD gummy bears, may help with anxiety disorders⁽²⁸⁾.

Oral CBD doses of 300 to 600mg appeared to reduce experimentally induced anxiety in healthy individuals without modifying baseline anxiety problems. The doses also seemed to alleviate anxiety in SAD (social anxiety disorder) patients⁽²⁹⁾.

Limited results in healthy individuals showed that CBD may enhance fear extinction, suggesting that the compound may help with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)⁽³⁰⁾.

Note that they should always see a physician for consumers’ wellness before taking any CBD product. Only a medical expert can determine the appropriate dosage for the users.

CBD may interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) through the latters’ cannabinoid receptors. The ECS has a significant role in maintaining the body’s homeostasis or balance⁽³¹⁾. 

CBD may increase anandamide, a mood-regulating hormone⁽³²⁾. Although cannabidiol does not directly activate cannabinoid receptors, it inhibits the breakdown of the endocannabinoid anandamide in a dose-dependent manner⁽³³⁾. 

Cannabidiol is a nonpsychoactive component of cannabis with a low affinity for CB1 receptors⁽³⁴⁾.

Meanwhile, the cannabinoids in the gummy provide a higher potency⁽³⁵⁾, which means the body absorbs more CBD.

The potency of a drug is expressed in terms of the concentration or quantity necessary to generate a given effect, while clinical efficacy assesses the drug’s therapeutic effectiveness in humans⁽³⁶⁾.

Also, CBD-infused gummies have a longer shelf life. The cannabinoids are shielded from light and heat since CBD gummies are contained inside the gummy bear rather than on the outside layer. 

Determinants of CBD Gummies Dosage

Here are the determining factors CBD users must keep in mind when taking CBD gummies: 

Bodyweight

The amount of CBD consumers may take daily depends on their weight. 

However, body type, height, and other variables may influence how individual takes CBD gummies. Thus, users should rely on several factors to determine the suggested dosage.

 Level of Discomfort

Some individuals may base the number of gummies they take on the level of discomfort they experience. To avoid detrimental side effects, consumers must consult a doctor versed in cannabis use for accurate dosing and frequency of intake. 

Easiness 

The regular usage of CBD products like CBD gummies may cause a user to develop a tolerance. Hence, some individuals may gradually increase their dose until they feel the desired result. 

Concentration

The potency of a given CBD product depends on how potent its CBD oil is. For instance, the CBD concentration can be determined by the quantity of CBD oil that a person takes. This is because the drug’s efficacy and potency are measured in milligrams.

The exact dosage of CBD oil in each gummy may not be disclosed on the label. Therefore, users may consult a physician if taking CBD gummies to help manage their sleep issues. 

Uses of CBD Gummy Candies

CBD gummies are easy to consume. CBD gummies are chewed and swallowed similarly to regular candies. CBD may be taken at any time of the day or before bedtime.

CBD gummies packed with CBD oil should pass the concentration testing. Some marketers mislabel CBD oil as hemp extract oil, confusing customers. Thus, consumers must check the COA (certificate of analysis) to see whether a product includes CBD.

Consumers may want to try full-spectrum CBD gummies as a healthful CBD snack.

The full-spectrum gummies are ideal for users who want to experience the entourage effect with a low THC level. 

The entourage effect refers to the concept wherein the biologically active compounds of cannabis work together when taken together⁽³⁷⁾.

Users get a suitable dosage of CBD in the form of different fruit tastes, along with trace levels of other cannabinoids like THC, CBG, and CBN.

CBG is found in low amounts in cannabis plants. Current research shows this compound may have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties⁽³⁸⁾.

Along with the cannabis terpenes (distinct aroma), some CBD gummies formulation contains a low dose of melatonin, which may encourage good sleep aid patterns.

A comprehensive review was performed to analyze the evidence base supporting melatonin as an agent to increase sleep quality. Melatonin also reduces fatigue for military personnel, civilians, and active adult males⁽³⁹⁾.

There is not enough evidence to recommend CBD use in healthy individuals.

Meanwhile, a CBD company must enlist the services of a third-party lab to conduct a test to ensure products’ safety. 

The chemical tests are required by law for producers and suppliers in the hemp sector to ensure their goods do not exceed the legal limit of 0.3% THC concentration⁽⁴⁰⁾.

Some third-party laboratories also test CBD products for pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial in addition to THC. 

What Is CBD?

CBD is a cannabinoid present in the Cannabis sativa plant. This nonpsychoactive compound may help with sleep problems⁽⁴¹⁾. 

CBD has also shown promise as a potential therapeutic agent for anxiety⁽⁴²⁾.In addition, although results vary, CBD appears to help with chronic pain⁽⁴³⁾.

In contrast to THC(tetrahydrocannabinol), another compound present in cannabis plants, CBD does not induce a euphoric high⁽⁴⁴⁾. 

It is essential to note that many CBD products are available in three forms: CBD isolates, CBD broad-spectrum, and CBD full-spectrum. 

CBD isolate is composed entirely of pure CBD.

Meanwhile, CBD and other cannabinoids are present in broad-spectrum CBD oil, except for THC. 

Lastly, CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids are present in full-spectrum CBD oil. The THC concentration in this CBD variant is less than 0.3%. 

​​Important Considerations for Dosing CBD

At this time, there are no widely approved doses for CBD.

The following factors influence the quantity of CBD gummies a person should take to have a good night’s sleep:

• Height and weight and the degree of sleep issues experienced when using CBD products. 
• CBD edibles, such as gummies, may take up to 30 to 90 minutes to be fully absorbed by the body’s system⁽⁴⁵⁾.
• A Certificate of Analysis (COA) that validates the CBD oil’s strength and purity. 

Although some anecdotal reports say that CBD may help with sleep,⁽⁴⁶⁾ it is unknown what type of delivery method is the most effective. 

Norbert Kaminski, PhD, Michigan State University professor of pharmacology and toxicology, reported that the fastest method to get CBD to the brain is to smoke (vape) it⁽⁴⁷⁾. The second quickest way of administration is via the sublingual method using tinctures. According to Dr. Kiminski, edibles and topicals have a longer impact duration.

Safeness

The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD-derived medicine to treat seizures associated with severe forms of epilepsy⁽⁴⁸⁾.

The FDA does not endorse CBD products like CBD gummies for any other use, including sleep. Also, much of the evidence for CBD’s ability to regulate sleep is anecdotal.

 Further conclusive research is necessary to prove that CBD gummies may be an effective supplement for sleep.

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1. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28349316/
2. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
3. CBD for chronic pain: The science doesn’t match the marketing
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-for-chronic-pain-the-science-doesnt-match-the-marketing-2020092321003
4. Tips for beating anxiety to get a better night’s sleep
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/tips-for-beating-anxiety-to-get-a-better-nights-sleep
5. Chronic Pain
   https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4798-chronic-pain
6. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28349316/
7. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature
   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28349316/
8. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
9. CBD for chronic pain: The science doesn’t match the marketing
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-for-chronic-pain-the-science-doesnt-match-the-marketing-2020092321003
10. Tips for beating anxiety to get a better night’s sleep
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/tips-for-beating-anxiety-to-get-a-better-nights-sleep
11. Chronic Pain
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4798-chronic-pain
12. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28349316/
13. Ibid.
14. Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7893882/
15. Ibid.
16. Cannabidiol can improve complex sleep-related behaviours associated with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in Parkinson’s disease patients: a case series
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24845114/
17. Ibid.
18. Ibid.
19. Healing with CBD, page 191
    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view
20. What are the benefits of CBD — and is it safe to use?
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700
21. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD)
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
22. Pharmacogenomics: The Right Drug to the Right Person
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3299179/
23. Cannabidiol Adverse Effects and Toxicity
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7052834/
24. CBD for chronic pain: The science doesn’t match the marketing
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-for-chronic-pain-the-science-doesnt-match-the-marketing-2020092321003
25. Sativex oromucosal spray as adjunctive therapy in advanced cancer patients with chronic pain unalleviated by optimized opioid therapy: two double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase 3 studies
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5521351/
26. Ibid.
27. Ibid.
28. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
29. Ibid.
30. Ibid.
31. The Endocannabinoid System, Our Universal Regulator
    https://www.jyi.org/2018-june/2018/6/1/the-endocannabinoid-system-our-universal-regulator#
32. Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3316151/
33. Ibid.
34. Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3316151/
35. Analysis of Active Cannabis Compounds (Cannabinoids) in Edible Food Products: Gummy Bears and Brownies
    https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/PH/en/technical-documents/protocol/food-and-beverage-testing-and-manufacturing/chemical-analysis-for-food-and-beverage/analysis-of-active-cannabis-compounds
36. Does potency predict clinical efficacy? Illustration through an antihistamine model
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12141724/
37. The “Entourage Effect”: Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324885/
38. Chapter 99 – Potential Medical Uses of Cannabigerol: A Brief Overview
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128007563001150
39. The effectiveness of melatonin for promoting healthy sleep: a rapid evidence assessment of the literature
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4273450/
40. Third-Party Lab Tests: Why They Are Important
    https://santelabs.com/2020/06/third-party-lab-tests-why-they-are-important/
41. Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: a Review of the Literature
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28349316/
42. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/
43. CBD for chronic pain: The science doesn’t match the marketing
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cbd-for-chronic-pain-the-science-doesnt-match-the-marketing-2020092321003
44. Cannabidiol and Other Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids for Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders: Useful Nutraceuticals?
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7246936/
45. Page 191of Healing With CBD
    https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view
46. How to Safely Use CBD: Should You Inhale, Spray, Apply, or Eat It
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cbd/how-to-use-cbd-inhale-spray-apply-eat/
47. Ibid.
48. FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe Forms of Epilepsy
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-drug-comprised-active-ingredient-derived-marijuana-treat-rare-severe-forms

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