Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms and Side Effects: Guide

Cannabis Withdrawal: Answer First

Cannabis withdrawal is a set of symptoms that appear after stopping heavy or long-term cannabis use. The DSM-5 added cannabis withdrawal syndrome in 2013. About 30% of people who use cannabis daily report withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms start 1 to 3 days after the last use. They peak within the first week. Most symptoms fade in 2 to 3 weeks.

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Common Symptoms

• Irritability, anger, or aggression
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Sleep problems, including insomnia and vivid dreams
• Decreased appetite or weight loss
• Restlessness
• Depressed mood
• Abdominal pain
• Shakiness or tremors
• Sweating, fever, or chills
• Headache

Timeline

Onset: 1 to 3 days after stopping. Peak: days 2 to 6. Duration: 1 to 3 weeks. Sleep problems can last longer. Some people report symptoms for 30 days or more.

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Side Effects and Risks

Withdrawal itself is not life-threatening. The main risk is relapse. Symptoms can push a person back to cannabis use. Heavy use of high-THC products raises risk. Using cannabis with tobacco raises risk. Withdrawal can affect work, school, and relationships. Sleep loss and mood changes can impair driving.

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Who Is at Risk

Risk factors include daily use, use for more than 1 year, high THC potency, younger age at first use, and co-use of tobacco. People who use medical cannabis for chronic pain or anxiety may also get withdrawal.

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Treatment

No FDA-approved medication exists for cannabis withdrawal. Behavioral therapies help. Cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy reduce use. Some studies test gabapentin and N-acetylcysteine. Results are mixed. Support groups and counseling can help manage symptoms. Talk to a doctor before stopping heavy use.