Cannabis withdrawal: what to expect?

Cannabis advocates generally reject the idea that there is such a thing as cannabis withdrawal syndrome. We regularly hear statements such as: «I smoked weed every day for 30 years and stopped with no problem. It's not an addiction».

Some cannabis researchers, on the other hand, describe severe withdrawal symptoms that can include aggression, anger, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, anorexia, depression, agitation, headaches, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Given this long list of cannabinoid withdrawal symptoms, a consumer trying to reduce or stop his or her cannabis consumption might have doubts. But what is the truth?

When should you stop using cannabis?

The standard definition of cannabis use disorder, also known simply as cannabis addiction, is based on the presence of at least two of the following criteria:

• consume more than expected
• spend a lot of time consuming
• want to consume
• have problems due to consumption
• use in high-risk situations
• have problems due to consumption
• tolerance or withdrawal after stopping consumption

As cannabis becomes legalized and more widely accepted, and as we understand that it is possible to be tolerant and physical or psychological withdrawal from many substances without necessarily being dependent on them (such as opiates, benzodiazepines and certain antidepressants), this definition seems obsolete and over-inclusive.

For example, if the word «coffee» were substituted for «cannabis», a large proportion of the 70% French people who drink coffee daily would suffer from a «caffeine consumption disorder».

A simpler, more familiar definition of cannabis dependence might be more useful. to assess overconsumption of cannabis persistent consumption despite negative consequences.

If your cannabis use is damaging your health, disrupting your relationships or interfering with your work performance, it's probably time to stop or significantly reduce your consumption and consult your doctor. As part of this process, you may need support or treatment if you're experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which can make it much harder to stop using.

What are the symptoms of cannabis withdrawal?

The symptoms of cannabis withdrawal are as follows:

• reduced appetite
• mood swings
• irritability
• sleep difficulties, including insomnia
• headaches
• loss of concentration
• cannabis cravings
• sweating, including cold sweats, especially at night
• chills
• increased feelings of depression
• stomach problems...

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, These symptoms vary from person to person, although they will always be milder than with other substances such as heroin. These symptoms are not necessarily serious or dangerous, but they can be unpleasant. The longer you've been using cannabis, the more likely you are to experience withdrawal symptoms.

Why does cannabis cause withdrawal symptoms?

Regular consumption accustoms the brain and body to a regular intake of THC. When this intake is interrupted, the body takes some time to get used to being without it. This leads to uncomfortable physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Once the brain and body have adapted to the absence of THC, physical withdrawal symptoms cease. However, people may still experience psychological cravings for cannabis for some time.

Withdrawal from cannabis can therefore take some time, depending on the individual, his or her metabolism and past consumption habits. It's the same thing when you ask yourself how long THC remains in the body. The same factors influence the persistence of tetrahydrocannabinol in the human body (hair, urine, blood, saliva, etc.).

How can these symptoms be prevented?

If you're ready to quit smoking, it's perfectly okay to talk to a doctor or addiction specialist. You may not need specific instructions, but it's always a good idea to consult someone about your decision. At the very least, this person can be a good source of inspiration and empowerment.

If you used to smoke regularly and often, gradually and slowly reducing your cannabis consumption can help you get used to a life without cannabis. If you only smoked occasionally, you may be able to quit completely without a gradual reduction.

When you are ready to stop smoking, take the following steps to ease the initial 24- to 72-hour withdrawal period:

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary, caffeinated drinks such as sodas.
• Eat healthy foods. Fill up on fresh fruits and vegetables and lean proteins. Avoid junk food, which can make you lethargic and irritable.
• Exercise every day. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. It's a natural mood booster and can help eliminate toxins by sweating.
• Find support. Surround yourself with friends, family and others who can help you overcome the withdrawal symptoms you may be experiencing.

What are the benefits of giving up cannabis?

If you've decided to stop using cannabis, either to reduce your tolerance or because it interfered too much with your daily life, cannabis withdrawal should fulfill its original purpose. However, stopping cannabis can also have beneficial effects on your body.

Better breathing

Smoke of any kind is harmful to the lungs. Frequent cannabis use is associated with morning cough or bronchitis symptoms in young adults. The good news is that your lungs can begin to heal as soon as one to three days after stopping cannabis (and can continue to heal for several years). However, you can suffer irreparable lung damage, depending on how much and for how long you use cannabis.

Better memory

Your brain will take a little longer to repair itself once you stop using cannabis, even if the process begins immediately. After four weeks of abstinence, the brain receptors that regulate neurological processes - such as pleasure, motivation, memory, learning, cognitive function and fine motor control - begin to return to normal function.

Better sleep

Cannabis may help you fall asleep, but the quality of that sleep suffers. Even after you've stopped using cannabis, it's common to experience persistent sleep problems.

Up to several days or weeks after stopping cannabis use, some people may suffer from insomnia, while others may experience nightmares or vivid dreams that disrupt their sleep - but these problems tend to subside 10 to 20 days after stopping cannabis.

Reduced anxiety

If cannabis makes you feel anxious, panicky or paranoid, you're not alone. Cannabinoids, and THC in particular, can overstimulate the amygdala - the part of the brain that controls emotions such as anxiety, panic, paranoia and fear. Fortunately, you can get rid of these negative emotions within a few days to two weeks of stopping cannabis.

Who to turn to?

If you need help to stop using cannabis, you can contact your nearest CSAPA. These Centers for Addiction Care, Support and Prevention (Centres de soins, d'accompagnement et de prévention en addictologie), places dedicated to addiction problems, will listen to you and support you, without judgment, in your journey.