Cannabinol (CBN), an increasingly common ingredient in over-the-counter sleep products, might pose risks of physical dependence, according to research from the University of Connecticut. The study, published in the November issue of the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence, highlights caution for consumers.
Read More
CBN is marketed as a safe, herbal sleep aid found in gummies, tinctures, and capsules. However, UConn researcher Steven Kinsey warns that repeated use of CBN could lead to dependency. Evidence from the study shows that mice exposed to CBN developed signs of tolerance and withdrawal, similar to those observed with THC and CBD, which also naturally occur in cannabis.
In the experiment, mice administered CBN twice daily for three days exhibited reduced effects over time and displayed withdrawal symptoms, such as twitching and shaking. Additionally, trained mice reacted to CBN in a manner akin to their response to THC, indicating CBN might activate some of the same biological pathways.
The lead author, Olivia Vanegas, cautions that while CBN's popularity for sleep has surged, there's insufficient knowledge regarding its long-term safety or effectiveness. Historical precedents exist where substances initially marketed as safe sleep aids later revealed dangers of addiction.
The research also noted CBN’s anti-inflammatory properties at lower, non-psychoactive doses but raised concerns about its impact on the immune system. CBN weakened the body’s defenses during simulated bacterial challenges, suggesting potential risks.
While Kinsey acknowledges that CBN may hold therapeutic potential, he emphasizes the need for further research to clarify dosing and long-term effects. He advises consumers to remain wary until more comprehensive studies are conducted.