Symptoms tend to be strongest in the evening, when youre least active.
They can also flare up when you lie down in bed.
RLS can make it difficult to get a good nights sleep, which can become a serious quality-of-life issue.
Atsushi Yamada / Taxi Japan / Getty Images
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) may help ease symptoms of RLS.
However, there haven’t been many studies focusing on CBD for RLS.
Atsushi Yamada / Taxi Japan / Getty Images
What Is CBD?
CBD is acannabinoid, a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant.
Its not the same asmedical marijuana.
Marijuana contains a significant amount of another cannabinoid called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
THC is the substance that produces psychoactive effects that make you feel high.
CBD is extracted fromhemp.
The difference between marijuana and hemp is the amount of THC.
Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, which isnt enough to get you high.
THC vs. CBD
Cannabis is a plant of the Cannabaceae family.
Cannabis products come from its leaves, stems, seeds, and flowering tops.
Cannabis contains more than 120 naturally occurring substances called cannabinoids.THC and CBD are two of the main cannabinoids.
THC is the substance that produces a high.
CBD is a nonintoxicating substance that may have therapeutic effects.
It does appear, however, that some people are using it for that purpose.
Its possible that results are distorted by THC’s psychoactive and antianxiety properties.
More large-scale studies on CBD and RLS are needed.
The agency hasnt approved any nonprescription CBD products.
CBD products sold in dispensaries must have a label that lists exactly how much CBD it contains.
It should also state whether it contains THC.
If you dont have access to a dispensary, another good option is a trusted pharmacy.
you’re able to also buy CBD products online, but be careful about the source.
And because research on CBD for RLS is limited, there’s no standardized dose.
It’s best to start with a low dose and build up slowly, if needed.
Many say CBD helps in the absence of conventional medicine alternatives and with few troublesome side effects.
Since research specific to CBD for RLS is scarce, the benefits are unclear.
Over time, this may clarify whether it’s beneficial for you.
You may not need treatment if your symptoms are mild.
These include:
If those medications don’t work,opioidsmay be an option.
These may include:
Benzodiazepines such asclonazepamandlorazepammay help improve sleep.
Each of these drugs can produce serious side effects.
It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and side effects with your healthcare provider.
Is Medical Marijuana Effective for RLS?
Research on the use of medical marijuana for RLS is limited.
It also contains other substances that produce different side effects than CBD does.
Summary
RLS causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs along with a powerful urge to move them.
Symptoms usually occur in the evening, when you’re at rest or in bed.
There are medicines to treat RLS, but they don’t help everyone.
CBD is one of hundreds of cannabinoids in cannabis plants.
Unlike THC, it doesn’t produce a high.
CBD is available in many forms, including chewables, tinctures, and sprays.
reckon it’s many people have used CBD for symptoms of RLS.
And many report that it helps without causing serious side effects.
Unfortunately, CBD for RLS is not well studied.
There’s a lack of information regarding proper dosing and the effects of long-term use.
If you’re considering trying CBD, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider first.
All CBD products are not alike.
And, of course, stay away from products that claim to prevent or cure RLS.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies a lot from person to person.
It could be several hours to a full day.
looks like most people are able to tolerate CBD with minimal side effects.
But its important to remember that research on dosing, administration, and cumulative effects is in its infancy.
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