Sleep and the Addicted Brain

Presenting Author(s): Dr. Ric Procyshyn, Ph.D.

Date and time: 22 Mar 2025 from 09:00 to 10:00

Location: Wildrose Salon A/B/C  

Abstract

Sleep disturbances and substance misuse are two conditions that are so connected that when one is impacted there will be consequences for the other. While occasional substance use often results in sleep disturbances that in turn foster chronic substance misuse, sleep disturbances are in themselves independent risk factors for substance misuse. Acute exposure to substances can result in significant sleep impairment affecting sleep latency, quality and duration which only worsens with chronic substance misuse. Furthermore, during periods of abstinence, insomnia and negative affect often manifest which can drive drug craving, impulsivity and relapse. Despite substantial evidence linking sleep disturbances and substance misuse, little attention has been given to the therapeutic benefits of targeting sleep disturbances in patients with substance use disorders. Of note, current medications indicated for the treatment of substance use disorders do not address underlying sleep disturbances that may be a barrier for recovery. In this regard, exploring the orexin system may offer some insight into optimizing treatment. Orexins are neuropeptides that regulate various behavioral and physiological processes, including sleep, wakefulness, cravings and motivation for procuring and taking a substance. This lecture will review the role of the orexin system in both sleep disturbances and drug addiction. It will examine the current evidence of using dual orexin receptor antagonists for the treatment of substance use disorders and their comorbid sleep disturbances.

Learning Objectives

1. Review the addiction cycle;

2. Review the role of orexin in mental health and addictions;

3. Review the relationship between insomnia and addictions; and

4. Review the evidence for orexin receptor antagonists in the treatment of addictions.

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