Withdrawing from regular cannabis use can lead to symptoms that include shifts in mood and sleep disturbances.
Attitudes have changed toward cannabis in recent years. Many states have legalized medicinal and recreational cannabis, and more states may join in the future.
Using cannabis a handful of times may not be enough to cause withdrawal symptoms when you no longer use it. But for people who use cannabis regularly, it may be a different story.
Using cannabis edibles or tinctures, as well as vaping, daily and in high amounts is more likely to cause at least mild withdrawal symptoms if you stop abruptly.
The symptoms of cannabis withdrawal may include:
- decreased appetite
- mood changes
- irritability
- sleep difficulties, including insomnia
- headaches
- loss of focus
- cravings for cannabis
- sweating, including cold sweats
- chills
- increased feelings of depression
- stomach problems
These symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary from person to person. They may not be severe or dangerous, but they can be unpleasant.
The longer you use cannabis, the more likely you are to experience withdrawal symptoms. In addition, you may not experience withdrawal symptoms right away.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about
A 2021 study also found that nearly one-third of female cannabis users ages 50 to 64 and one-fifth of those ages over 65 are using it nearly every day.
Among male users, more than one-third of people in all age groups reported using it nearly daily, and more than
According to a 2020 study of more than 23,000 participants, the prevalence of cannabis withdrawal syndrome is about
Cannabis withdrawal symptoms may not be as severe as withdrawal symptoms from other substances. Opioids, alcohol, cocaine, and heroin can produce severe, even dangerous, withdrawal symptoms.
Still, many people who stop using cannabis experience physical and psychological symptoms. That’s because your body has to adjust to not having a regular supply of THC.
THC is the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. When you regularly use cannabis, your brain develops a tolerance for it. The more you use, the more your brain depends on this supply of THC.
As your body becomes accustomed to not having THC, you may experience unpleasant symptoms. In some cases, these symptoms can be so troublesome that people begin using cannabis again to get relief.
If you use cannabis regularly and often, tapering off and slowly reducing your cannabis use may help you ease into a cannabis-free life. If you only use cannabis occasionally, you may be able to stop entirely without any step-down.
Consider making an appointment with a doctor or a substance use disorder specialist to discuss your options.
Your healthcare professional might recommend dronabinol (Marinol), a synthetic drug that mimics THC, to help prevent symptoms of withdrawal. Certain anxiety or sleep medications may also help with symptom management.
The following may also help make the first 24 to 72 hours easier:
- Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water and avoid sugary, caffeinated beverages like soda.
- Eat healthy foods: Fuel your body with a generous supply of fresh fruit, vegetables, and lean protein. Avoid processed foods, which can make you feel sluggish and irritable.
- Exercise every day: Squeeze in at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. This provides a natural mood boost and can help remove toxins as you sweat.
- Find support: Surround yourself with friends, family members, and others who can help you through any withdrawal symptoms you may experience.
Most people will not need professional help to quit cannabis. However, in some cases, you may be better able to quit and stick with quitting if you have guidance and medical assistance.
You can try out behavioral therapy with a licensed clinical psychologist. Common treatment modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy.
In addition, these resources may be helpful:
Detoxification center
These short-term programs are designed to help people get through the initial drug-free phase. They provide assistance and medical attention as you manage the symptoms of withdrawal.
Inpatient rehabilitation center
These medical facilities are designed to assist people for more than 25 days.
These facilities help a person stop using drugs, including cannabis, and then manage the underlying issues that led to drug use and may lead to relapse if not dealt with correctly.
These are also helpful for people dealing with multiple substance use disorders.
Intensive outpatient programs
Outpatient rehabilitation programs often require multiple meetings or sessions each week with a therapist, substance use disorder expert, or another mental health specialist.
However, you’re not required to check into a facility, and you’re free to come and go on your own.
Support groups and therapy
One-on-one therapy may be useful as you cope with the underlying factors that contribute to cannabis misuse.
Likewise, connecting with people who face many of the same scenarios and questions as you in a support group can be a good way to find accountability and support during this next phase of your life.
While the symptoms of cannabis withdrawal may not be as severe as those of some other substances, cannabis withdrawal is real.
You may experience symptoms like trouble sleeping, mood changes, and irritability when you stop. These symptoms are rarely dangerous, and most will stop within about 72 hours after your last use of cannabis.
In the long term, finding guidance and accountability with a therapist or support group is encouraged. Staying sober is easier when you know you have people supporting you.