Are you struggling with a sleep problem that is causing daytime dysfunction? You are not alone. According to the American Sleep Association, 50 to 70 million American adults struggle with a sleep disorder. Many of these people will either use Ambien, a prescription drug or cannabis, a natural remedy to help them get the much-needed rest that is required of them to have a great day. It is always advisable to consult a physician before using any medication.
Let’s look at 3 pros and cons to using Ambien or cannabis for sleep problems.
If you are considering using cannabis for sleep problems, it is important to understand that there are different strains of cannabis available. The cannabis plant has more than 100 compounds present and one of those compounds is cannabidiol commonly known as CBD. Several studies have shown that this CBD product helps sleep problems.
You can use CBD oil in the form of tinctures, edibles, lotions, and balms.
Let’s Look At the Pros and Cons of Cannabidiol
Pros
1. Cbd Is Safe For Long Term Use
Compared to sleeping pills, Cannabidiol is safer and will not cause serious health risks. Cannabidiol will not interfere with your hormones and you can use it for long periods of time.
2. Regulate Your Sleep Pattern
CBD oil works by improving your alertness during the day and reinforcing your sleep cycle at night thereby regulating your sleep pattern and promoting better sleeping stability.
3. Cbd Oil Can Minimize PTSD Symptoms
CBD oil can reduce the terrible symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder which include nightmares, anxiety, and insomnia.
Cons
1. Drowsiness
Overdosing on cannabidiol can cause drowsiness, nausea, and lightheadedness.
2. Dry Mouth
Cannabidiol can inhibit the secretion of saliva in your mouth leading to a condition known as the cottonmouth.
3. Decreased Blood Pressure
Very high doses of CBD oil can induce a drop in blood pressure in healthy adults. People with low blood pressure problems are advised to exercise caution.
The Pros and Cons of Ambien
Ambien, the trademark name for the prescription drug zolpidem is a type of medication that is used to treat short term sleeping disorders such as insomnia. Taking this medication at night can help you sleep deeply for up to eight hours.
Here are the pros and cons of using Ambien for sleep problems.
Pros
1. Can Help You Stay Asleep Longer
Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic that works by calming your brain so that you can sleep. If used correctly, Ambien will help you fall asleep immediately you get into bed.
2. Can Help With Jetlag
Ambien can help you fight jet lag and get a good night sleep after traveling across the world.
3. Ambien May Improve Memory
Studies have shown that taking Ambien to combat insomnia can help you wake up sharper the next day. This sleeping pill can help consolidate memories or move information from your short term brain storage to the long term.
Cons
1. Ambien Can Lead To Addiction
Ambien is prescribed for short term use. Individuals who prolong their treatment or increase the dosage to achieve the desired sedative effects can develop an addiction. Â
2. Can Increase Your Chances of Getting Cancer
New data suggests that using Ambien could increase your risk of developing certain cancers.
3. Sleepwalking
Ambien can result in getting out of bed without being fully awake. Many people have reported doing strange things after taking Ambien such as sleepwalking, sleep eating and even sleep talking on the phone.
