From the Guidelines
Cannabinol (CBN) is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that forms when THC ages and oxidizes, producing mild sedative effects and potentially useful for sleep issues. When considering the properties and effects of CBN, it is essential to understand its relationship with other cannabinoids, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), as discussed in the context of cannabis use in adults with cancer 1. Some key points about CBN include:
- It is less psychoactive than THC but still has sedative properties
- CBN is typically found in older cannabis
- It is available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, edibles, and topicals
- Typical dosages range from 5-15mg, though individual responses vary
- CBN works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 receptors, but with less binding affinity than THC
- Research suggests CBN may have benefits for sleep, pain relief, inflammation reduction, and appetite stimulation, though scientific evidence remains limited compared to CBD and THC Given the current state of research, users should start with low doses and be aware that CBN products may contain other cannabinoids that could affect drug tests or produce unwanted effects. In the context of real-life clinical medicine, prioritizing caution is crucial when recommending CBN or any cannabis-derived products, considering the variability in individual responses and the potential for interactions with other medications or health conditions.
From the Research
Definition and Overview of Cannabinol (CBN)
- Cannabinol (CBN) is a constituent of Cannabis sativa, derived from delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol 2.
- It is one of the substances found in the cannabis herb, along with cannabidiol (CBD) and 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) 2.
- CBN has been claimed to have unique sleep-promoting effects, although the clinical evidence to support this is limited and dated 3.
Research on CBN
- Pre-clinical and clinical research on CBN is limited, with most human studies occurring in the 1970-1980s with small sample sizes lacking diversity in sociodemographic characteristics 3.
- A systematic review of published evidence found insufficient clinical evidence to support claims that CBN has sleep-promoting effects 3.
- However, a recent protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of CBN on sleep and next-day function in participants with insomnia disorder 4.
Potential Applications of CBN
- CBN may have potential applications in medicine, including the treatment of various diseases such as diabetes, neoplasms, inflammatory diseases, neurological conditions, pain, and vomiting 2.
- The discovery of CB1 and CB2 receptors has defined the potential objective of CBN's effects, and substances affecting these receptors may show beneficial effects 2.
- However, further research is needed to fully understand the effects and potential benefits of CBN, as well as its safety and efficacy as a therapeutic agent 3, 4.