How Long Does It Take to Detox from Marijuana?

Marijuana addiction is often downplayed or overlooked because it’s not usually as severe or deadly as other types of addiction such as an addiction to heroin or prescription drugs. But marijuana addiction, like any other addiction, can lead to a need for detox. This leads to the question “How long will detox take?” Unfortunately, there is no easy answer, because every person experiences withdrawal in a different way, and detox from marijuana can vary from one person to the next.

Here’s what you need to know.

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According to Marijuana Anonymous, “THC is stored in the fat cells and therefore takes longer to fully clear the body than any other common drug.” What this means is that people who are detoxing from marijuana will often feel the effects of withdrawal for a longer time than those coming off certain other types of drugs that more quickly leave the body’s systems.

Factors that Increase Time for Detoxification

Detox may take longer for chronic marijuana users.

Certain factors can increase the amount of time it takes for you to fully detox from marijuana. Some of the factors that may cause detox to take longer include:

• How long you smoked pot prior to detox
• How much marijuana you smoked
• Your health and any underlying health conditions
• Whether you have quit smoking pot before or not
• Your physical stature (physically fit people detox more quickly than those who are out of shape)
• The methods of treatment used in detox

How Long Detox Takes

Marijuana detox is generally complete within the first few weeks after an individual quits smoking pot, but minor cravings and side effects may linger for months. Most people who are physically uncomfortable during marijuana detox will begin to notice that their discomfort is dissipating within about 7 to 10 days if they remain abstinent. For some, this process will take a bit longer and may require additional steps to help speed up the detox period.

Timeline for Marijuana Detox

• 24-48 hours: Withdrawal symptoms begin. Common symptoms include anxiety, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, anger/irritability, and depressed mood. Some people also experience headaches, chills, stomach pain, and tension.
• 2-6 days: Symptoms peak, then start to fade.
• 3 weeks: Some symptoms may last up to three weeks, especially if you were using a lot of marijuana.

Fortunately, you can shorten the amount of time that it takes to fully detox from marijuana by avoiding all marijuana intake as well as all other harmful drugs or toxins such as alcohol. Drinking plenty of water and exercising can also help promote a more rapid detoxification process. No medications are approved to treat marijuana withdrawal, but supportive counseling can be an affective approach to help with symptoms.

For help finding a marijuana detox center, search our directory or call 800-996-6135(Sponsored) to get help today!