Why More Americans Are Choosing Cannabis Over Prescription Sleep Aids
Sleep troubles have become a silent epidemic in America, with nearly 80% of adults reporting that something keeps them up at night. A new national survey conducted by The Harris Poll reveals a remarkable shift in how people are choosing to combat this problem. Instead of turning to traditional prescription sleep aids, a growing number of Americans—nearly one in five adults—are now turning to cannabis to help them achieve restful sleep. This trend highlights not only a cultural shift in the acceptance of cannabis but also a scientific one, as research continues to uncover the sleep-promoting benefits of specific cannabinoids.
According to the survey, 16% of adults use cannabis to aid their sleep, surpassing the 12% who rely on prescription medications like zolpidem or benzodiazepines. Even more striking is the fact that cannabis-infused edibles have become the preferred delivery method, with over 42% of adults consuming edibles and more than half of those using them specifically to improve sleep quality. This growing preference for cannabis reflects not only concerns about the side effects of prescription drugs but also an increasing awareness of how cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to support healthier sleep patterns.
One cannabinoid in particular is drawing attention for its sleep-inducing properties: cannabinol, or CBN. Unlike THC, which is known for its psychoactive effects, CBN is a mildly sedative cannabinoid often found in aged cannabis. Studies suggest that CBN interacts primarily with the CB1 receptors of the ECS, which are densely located in areas of the brain that regulate sleep and relaxation. Research has demonstrated that even low doses of CBN may have a synergistic sedative effect when combined with THC or CBD, making it an ideal candidate for natural sleep formulations.
The Harris Poll data also shows that parents with children under 18 are especially likely to turn to cannabis for sleep support. Over 77% of parents in this group wish they slept better, and 21% actively use cannabis as a sleep aid—almost double the rate of non-parents. Financial stress, family concerns, and the relentless demands of modern life contribute to disrupted sleep, and many parents are opting for cannabis-infused edibles to find relief without the grogginess often associated with prescription sleep medications.
But what makes cannabis-infused edibles particularly effective for sleep? Edibles provide a longer-lasting and more sustained release of cannabinoids into the bloodstream compared to inhalation methods. This extended effect aligns more closely with the body’s natural sleep cycles, helping users fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Products formulated with higher ratios of CBD and CBN, combined with small amounts of THC, are becoming increasingly popular for this very reason. These formulations work together to calm the mind, reduce nighttime anxiety, and promote deeper, more restorative sleep.
In addition to CBN, CBD has been extensively studied for its anxiolytic and calming effects. By interacting with serotonin receptors (specifically 5-HT1A), CBD helps regulate mood and reduce the racing thoughts that often accompany sleepless nights. Combining CBD with CBN creates a powerful entourage effect—where the combined compounds produce greater therapeutic effects than any one compound alone. This makes products like incredibles’ Snoozzzeberry line particularly effective, as they are designed to harness this synergistic action for maximum relaxation and sleep support.
As awareness of the endocannabinoid system grows, more people are beginning to understand how critical this complex biological network is for sleep regulation. The ECS plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis throughout the body, including regulating circadian rhythms and stress responses. When this system is out of balance—whether from chronic stress, poor diet, or lack of exercise—sleep disturbances often follow. Cannabinoids help restore balance to the ECS, offering a natural pathway back to restful sleep.
Interestingly, the survey also found that financial stress is a significant factor keeping people awake at night, with over 32% of adults citing it as their top concern. Parents are even more affected, with 42% reporting financial worries as a major sleep disruptor. In this context, the affordability and accessibility of cannabis edibles compared to ongoing prescription costs may also play a role in their growing popularity as a preferred sleep aid.
With sleep disorders on the rise and the risks of long-term prescription drug use becoming clearer, it’s no surprise that Americans are seeking safer, more natural alternatives. The emerging science on cannabinoids like CBN and CBD offers compelling evidence that these compounds can effectively promote better sleep without the dependency risks or severe side effects associated with pharmaceutical options.
As Ben Kovler, CEO of Green Thumb Industries, puts it, “Sleeping well is essential for feeling your best. More Americans are choosing cannabis for relaxation, sleep, and overall well-being.” With consumer demand and scientific research aligning, cannabis is rapidly becoming the go-to solution for a nation in search of a better night’s rest.
