Total CBN
Also known as: Cannabinol, CBN, Total CBN, 6,6,9-Trimethyl-3-pentyl-6H-benzo[c]chromen-1-ol
Overview
Cannabinol (CBN) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid formed from the degradation of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in aged cannabis. It is a minor constituent in most cannabis products, typically found in trace amounts unless specifically formulated. CBN is being investigated for potential sleep-promoting effects, although current evidence is limited compared to other cannabinoids like CBD. Research on CBN is in its early stages, with preclinical and anecdotal evidence suggesting potential benefits, but robust clinical trials are lacking. CBN acts as a weak agonist at CB1 and CB2 receptors, potentially modulating sleep via the endocannabinoid system. Oral bioavailability is likely low, similar to CBD, but may be improved with lipid-based formulations. More high-quality research is needed to confirm its clinical utility.
Benefits
Preliminary evidence suggests CBN may have sleep-promoting effects, but clinical data are sparse. A recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 198 participants per group was designed to detect medium effects (Cohen’s d = 0.5) between CBN and placebo, but the results are not yet published. Preclinical data also suggest possible mild sleep benefits. No robust secondary effects have been reported in clinical literature, and there is insufficient data to determine population-specific benefits. Overall, the evidence for CBN's benefits is limited, and further research is needed to confirm these effects.
How it works
CBN primarily interacts with the central nervous system by acting as a weak agonist at CB1 and CB2 receptors within the endocannabinoid system. This interaction may influence sleep regulation. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, CBN's effects are thought to involve modulation of neurotransmitter systems. Oral bioavailability is likely low, similar to CBD, but may be improved with lipid-based formulations. Further research is needed to fully elucidate CBN's mechanisms of action and its interaction with various body systems.
Side effects
Limited data are available regarding the side effects of CBN. Based on its classification as a cannabinoid, potential side effects may include mild sedation or drowsiness. No common, uncommon, or rare side effects have been specifically reported in clinical trials for CBN. There is a potential for interaction with drugs metabolized by CYP450 enzymes, although this has not been specifically documented for CBN. Contraindications have not been established, and there is insufficient data for pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations. Long-term safety data are lacking, and caution is advised when using CBN.
Dosage
Optimal dosage ranges for CBN have not been established due to limited clinical research. Clinical trials have used various doses, but no consensus exists on the minimum effective dose or maximum safe dose. Preclinical data suggest evening administration for sleep, but this is not supported by robust evidence. Oral formulations are the most common in research. Absorption may be improved with lipid-based formulations, similar to CBD. Until further research is available, it is important to approach CBN dosing with caution.
FAQs
Is CBN effective for sleep?
Evidence for sleep benefits is preliminary and should be interpreted with caution. Clinical data are limited, and no robust RCTs have yet published significant results.
Is CBN safe?
No major safety concerns have been reported, but long-term data are lacking. Potential side effects may include mild sedation or drowsiness, based on its cannabinoid classification.
When should I take CBN for sleep?
Evening use is suggested for sleep, but this is not supported by robust evidence. Timing and administration recommendations are based on preclinical data.
What results can I expect from taking CBN?
Mild improvements in sleep duration or quality may be possible, but not guaranteed. Clinical evidence does not yet support claims of CBN being a strong sleep aid.
Research Sources
- https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.11.07.23298230v1.full-text – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) was designed to detect medium effects (Cohen’s d = 0.5) between CBN and placebo. The study included 198 participants per group, with plans to enroll up to 300 per arm to account for attrition. However, the results are not yet published, although the methodology is considered robust.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/27697061.2023.2203221 – This systematic review provides relevant information on cannabinoid pharmacokinetics. It highlights that the oral bioavailability of cannabinoids, such as CBD, is low (13–19%). The review also notes that absorption can be improved with lipid-based formulations, which may be relevant to CBN as well.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.01365/full – This clinical study, while not specific to CBN, provides context for cannabinoid safety and efficacy. It suggests that chronic low-dose CBD is safe and may improve sleep, but its effects do not exceed those of melatonin. The study offers insights into cannabinoid use but is not directly applicable to CBN.
Supplements Containing Total CBN
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