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How Medical Marijuana Affects REM Sleep

Here at PA Medical Marijuana Doctor, we help to guide patients through the process of applying for a medical marijuana card in Philadelphia, PA. Medical marijuana can be an excellent sleep aid for several reasons. However, although the medication is excellent for helping us to nod off, it may not be ideal for the essential REM sleep that we need to recharge our bodies and minds. 

REM Sleep Explained

REM sleep is the most in-depth type of sleep that we drift into and start to dream. All other types of sleep are lighter and relatively easy from which to wake. During REM sleep, our bodies repair and regrow tissues, our immune systems become stronger, and our muscles and bones build up.

If you fail to dream at night, you are likely missing out on REM sleep. Also, if you’ve ever felt confused or disoriented when something wakes you up, this is likely because you were in a state of REM sleep. People have been using marijuana as a sleep aid for centuries, but there are a few things you should consider before you start to take it.

The Difference Between CBD and THC

Both THC and CBD are chemical compounds that can be extracted from the marijuana plant. The main difference between these two compounds is that TCH is psychoactive and provides users with a “high” feeling, and CBD is non-psychoactive and users do not feel a “high.”

Marijuana’s Impact on Sleep

Different marijuana strains have different effects on the mind and body. The strains that produce a “high”contain more THC and less CBD. A study on strains with a high level of CBD found that these types of marijuana helped to increase alertness during the day without impacting sleep. Therefore, these strains may be great for increasing daytime alertness without having a detrimental effect on REM sleep. Overall, studies have found that marijuana use reduces the likelihood of REM sleep.

Should You Take Medical Marijuana for Sleep?

Ultimately, it’s your choice. We need to recharge when we sleep, and REM is the time when our bodies and minds can recharge the most. Although some strains of marijuana may help you to drift off to sleep, you might only be likely to achieve a light sleep state for the majority of the night.

For more information, or to learn more about the process of applying for an MMJ card in Philadelphia, PA, contact us today.


Dr. McCoy treated me with great compassion and took the time to listen to my needs. I really felt like he cared about helping me.

- Tyler

My son suggested I try using medical marijuana for my back pain. I made an appointment with Dr. McCoy, got my MMJ card, and my back has never felt better!

- Suzanne

I was skeptical of medical marijuana at first, but Dr. McCoy took the time to educate me and made the entire process of getting my MMJ card simple and straightforward.

- Jason

Step 1: Get Registered

Create a profile in the PA state Medical Marijuana Registry. This includes basic personal data like your name, current address, and contact information. You must have a Pennsylvania driver’s license or state ID card. 

Step 2: Get Certified

Schedule a consultation with PA Medical Marijuana Doctor to meet with a PA state-approved physician who can certify that you suffer from one of the qualifying medical conditions to participate in PA’s medical marijuana program.

Step 3: Get Your Patient ID

Once you’re certified by an approved physician, return to the Medical Marijuana Registry and finish filling out your application for a medical marijuana ID card. Once you receive your card, you can purchase medical marijuana from a dispensary.

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