Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The endocannabinoid system plays a role in sleep-wake regulation. In clinical practice, people with central disorders of hypersomnolence (CDH) frequently report use of cannabis. METHODS: We compared lifetime and current use of cannabis of people with CDH to the Dutch general population. Additionally, we assessed cannabis use in relation to hypersomnolence symptoms. RESULTS: In total, 76 (out of 88) patients completed the online questionnaire. Lifetime cannabis use (42% vs. 23%, p < 0.001) and current use (18% vs. 4%, p < 0.001) were higher in people with CDH compared to the Dutch general population. For 57% of patients currently using cannabis, improvements of at least one CDH symptom were the motivation for use. Additionally, 79% of current cannabis users reported cannabis-related effects on a symptom, which were mostly positive (43%), some negative (7%), or mixed effects (29%). Patients that stopped using mostly started using cannabis before symptom onset and for recreational purposes. The most reported reasons to stop using were disadvantages of using or changes in the social environment. CONCLUSION: This study provides a rationale for future research on the potential benefits of cannabis in CDH.