Marijuana Detox and Withdrawal Times

Marijuana and its psychoactive properties grew popular throughout the latter half of the 20th century and, in the past few decades, the drug has continued to see increasingly widespread use. This growing popularity of the drug has paralleled, in many states, the push to legalize the substance, both for medical and recreational use.

While further research is necessary to fully assess the efficacy of cannabis in alleviating various forms of pain or treating specific medical conditions, advocates for medical marijuana often highlight the promising benefits of cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD. This non-psychoactive compound is seen as having significant potential for therapeutic applications without the mind-altering effects associated with its more famous counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In recent years, there has been a deliberate effort to cultivate recreational marijuana strains with enhanced levels of THC, the chemical responsible for the euphoric “high” that many users seek. As a result, these strains tend to have higher potency, which draws attention to the contrast between the recreational use of cannabis and the medicinal properties of CBD, revealing a complex landscape in the cannabis industry that warrants deeper exploration and understanding.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit substance in the US, according to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, with the most prevalent use seen amongst teenagers and young adults. Thanks in large part to efforts of groups lobbying to end marijuana prohibition, many people believe this substance to be safe and nonaddictive. However, like many other intoxicating substances, including legal ones like alcohol and tobacco, marijuana can lead to both dependence and addiction. While addiction risks might not be as pronounced as some other abused substances—the lifetime dependence risk for marijuana has been estimated to be 9% vs. 23% for heroin, 17% for cocaine, and 15% for alcohol, for example—the risk is still there.

A marijuana addiction—that is, problematic, compulsive use of the drug—is diagnosed by clinicians as a marijuana use disorder. Though the diagnosis is made in only a small percentage of marijuana users, it is more common among those who begin to use marijuana earlier in their lives. People who begin to use the drug before the age of 18, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), are 4-7 times more likely to develop marijuana use disorder than people who begin using the drug in adulthood.

Cannabinoids—the primary psychoactive chemical components of cannabis-derived substances like marijuana, hashish, and hash oil—are also produced in the brain, where they function as neurotransmitters and intercellular signaling molecules. These brain chemicals help neurons transmit signals to each other, and scientists have found that they play a role in a wide range of processes, including insulin sensitivity, energy and fat metabolism, and inflammation. Physiological dependence on marijuana develops as a result of brain adaptations to persistently higher-than-normal levels of exogenous (i.e., those not produced in the body) cannabinoids. When the brain is regularly flooded with these chemicals (e.g., potent levels of THC from daily marijuana use) the risk of developing dependence is increased. Once an individual develops marijuana dependence, they may notice the onset of withdrawal symptoms once they stop using the drug.

Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms

Regular marijuana users are at risk of developing marijuana dependence and, subsequently, experience withdrawal when they quit or make attempts to cut back on their use. Withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Nausea.
• Tremors.
• Weight loss due to appetite changes.
• Insomnia.
• Irritability.
• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• Mood swings.
• Restlessness.

A study from the Journal of Addiction Medicine surveyed 127 teenagers, 90 of whom heavily used marijuana. Researchers found that 84 percent qualified as dependent on the substance, and 40 percent of them experienced withdrawal symptoms when they ceased using it. The study findings suggest that withdrawal is common among adolescents who report cannabis as their drug of choice.

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Length of Marijuana Detox

Reports on a precise timeline for marijuana vary according to different sources. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the diagnostic criteria for cannabis withdrawal indicate that the characteristic signs and symptoms of withdrawal develop within roughly one week of last use, although some speculate that these discontinuation symptoms will not peak until marijuana and its cannabinoid metabolites are fully cleared from the body—which some estimate could take between 4 and 21 days after last use. Though the cannabis withdrawal syndrome does not usually require medical intervention, some of its troublesome effects, such as sleep disturbances, may persist for more than a month. Most people report complete symptom clearance 3 months out from last use, though many withdrawal symptoms do not last that long.

A more typical, general timeline for marijuana withdrawal follows:

1. The first three days: Withdrawal symptoms can begin within a day or two after the last time the person used marijuana. These symptoms may include anxiety, depression, mood swings, abdominal pain, nausea, appetite changes, headaches, shakiness, fever, sweating, and chills.
2. The first week: Some people may experience their most intense withdrawal symptoms during the first week. After 7-10 days, however, many people report that physical symptoms will begin to diminish, and mood will begin to stabilize. Cravings, depression, and some mood swings could continue, however.
3. The second week: Much of any remaining physical symptoms, like aches, insomnia, or appetite problems, are expected to resolve. Mood will continue to stabilize, although cravings may still continue beyond week 2.
4. The third week: The last traces of marijuana metabolites will mostly be gone from the body, as will the bulk of withdrawal symptoms.
5. The first month: It is somewhat rare that symptoms persist past the first month. However, some long-time, heavy users report some enduring symptoms or what’s known as a protracted withdrawal.

A 2011 Australian study found that marijuana withdrawal symptoms were on par with nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Everyone can react differently to the physical and psychological symptoms. Although the experience is not physically dangerous, the discomfort could make relapse more likely. Past studies have indicated that as many as one-third of those who tried to quit resumed marijuana use to avoid the discomfort of certain withdrawal symptoms (e.g., insomnia).

Complications of Marijuana Withdrawal

Cannabis withdrawal syndrome refers to the collection of withdrawal symptoms experienced by individuals who have developed a dependence on or addiction to marijuana and subsequently stop using it abruptly, often referred to as “going cold turkey.” While the symptoms can be quite uncomfortable and may include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and changes in appetite, it is important to note that this syndrome is not physically dangerous. However, the discomfort can lead to an increased likelihood of relapse as individuals may seek to alleviate these symptoms by returning to use.

In addition to the immediate withdrawal symptoms, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential long-term health complications that can arise from chronic marijuana use. Research indicates that prolonged exposure to cannabis may affect cognitive function, mental health, and even lung health when smoked. Individuals may experience issues such as memory impairment, increased anxiety or depression, and diminished motivation, which can significantly impact daily functioning and overall quality of life. Understanding these consequences can be vital for those considering reducing or quitting their marijuana use, as well as for health professionals advising patients on cannabis-related matters.

Some complications of continued use include:

• Lung problems due to smoke inhalation including an increased risk of chronic cough, bronchitis, and risk of lung infections like pneumonia.
• Potential cardiovascular issues such as increased heart rate, changes in blood pressure, and orthostatic hypotension.
• Changes in cognitive abilities resulting from impaired learning, memory retention, and attention deficits.