From the Guidelines
THC withdrawal symptoms typically include irritability, insomnia, and headaches, as well as other symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, restlessness, depressed mood, physical discomfort, cravings for cannabis, and in some cases sweating or chills 1. These symptoms usually begin within 24-72 hours after stopping cannabis use, peak within the first week, and generally last 1-2 weeks, though some symptoms like sleep disturbances may persist longer. Management typically involves supportive care rather than specific medications, with a focus on alleviating symptoms through hydration, regular sleep patterns, physical activity, and relaxation techniques. For severe cases, a healthcare provider might recommend temporary use of medications like over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches, or in some cases, short-term prescription medications for specific symptoms like sleep aids for insomnia 1. The severity of withdrawal depends on factors like frequency of use, amount typically consumed, and individual physiology, highlighting the importance of personalized care and monitoring during the withdrawal process. Key considerations in managing THC withdrawal include providing a supportive environment and addressing any co-occurring mental health issues that may arise during the withdrawal period.
From the Research
Symptoms of THC Withdrawal
- The most common features of cannabis withdrawal are:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Anger or aggression
- Disturbed sleep/dreaming
- Depressed mood
- Loss of appetite 2
- Less common physical symptoms include:
- Chills
- Headaches
- Physical tension
- Sweating
- Stomach pain 2
Onset and Duration of Symptoms
- Symptom onset typically occurs 24-48 hours after cessation of THC use 2
- Most symptoms generally peak at days 2-6, with some symptoms lasting up to 3 weeks or more in heavy cannabis users 2
Management of THC Withdrawal
- Supportive counselling and psychoeducation are the first-line approaches in the management of cannabis withdrawal 2
- Medications have been used to manage short-term symptoms, such as anxiety, sleep, and nausea, but there are no medications currently approved specifically for medically assisted withdrawal (MAW) 2