From the Guidelines
Hyperemia typically resolves within 24-72 hours after stopping cannabis use, with the exact timeline depending on individual factors such as frequency of use and personal physiology. The resolution of hyperemia after cannabis cessation is closely related to the body's reversal of the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on blood vessels. According to the perioperative pain and addiction interdisciplinary network (PAIN) consensus recommendations 1, regular cannabis use leads to a downregulation and desensitization of cortical and subcortical CB1 receptors, which begin to reverse after 48 hours of abstinence. This reversal process is crucial for the normalization of blood vessel function and, consequently, the resolution of hyperemia.
Some key points to consider in the resolution of hyperemia include:
- The frequency and potency of cannabis use, which can influence the duration of hyperemia
- Individual physiological differences, which can affect how quickly the body recovers from the effects of THC
- The use of over-the-counter vasoconstricting eye drops, which can provide temporary relief but should be used cautiously to avoid rebound redness
- The importance of staying hydrated and getting adequate rest to support the body's recovery process
It is essential to note that if hyperemia persists beyond 72 hours after cannabis cessation, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention. In such cases, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out other potential causes of prolonged eye redness. The Cannabis Withdrawal Scale, as mentioned in the PAIN consensus recommendations 1, can be a useful tool for assessing symptoms related to cannabis withdrawal, including hyperemia.
From the Research
Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms
- The onset of cannabis withdrawal symptoms typically occurs 24-48 hours after cessation, with most symptoms peaking at days 2-6 2.
- Symptoms can last up to 3 weeks or more in heavy cannabis users 2.
- Common symptoms of cannabis withdrawal include anxiety, irritability, anger or aggression, disturbed sleep/dreaming, depressed mood, and loss of appetite 2.
- Less common physical symptoms include chills, headaches, physical tension, sweating, and stomach pain 2.
Hyperemia Resolution
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the resolution of hyperemia after stopping cannabis use.
- However, it can be inferred that hyperemia, if related to cannabis use, may resolve once the body has adjusted to the absence of cannabis, which could be around the same time frame as the resolution of other withdrawal symptoms 2.
Cannabis Use Disorder and Withdrawal
- Cannabis use disorder affects approximately 10% of the 193 million cannabis users worldwide 3.
- Treatment of cannabis use disorder is often complicated by comorbid mental health and other substance use disorders 3.
- No pharmacotherapies have been approved for cannabis use or cannabis use disorder, although some drug classes have shown promise 3, 4.