How to Safely Detox from Marijuana

It is possible for people who use marijuana frequently to become dependent on its effects. According to the National Library of Medicine, “It is more likely to happen if they use marijuana every day, or started using it when they were teenagers.”

If you think you may be likely to go through marijuana withdrawal when you decide to quit, it is important to take the right steps necessary to safely detox from marijuana.

Find marijuana detox centers near you by calling 800-996-6135 or searching our directory.

Step One: Learn the Symptoms of Marijuana Withdrawal

You will experience some withdrawal symptoms when you attempt a marijuana detox. For the most part, they are not dangerous or life-threatening. However, it is best to know what to expect beforehand to make the process easier and less stressful.

According to a study published by Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, “Most symptoms begin within 24 to 48 hours of abstinence, peak within 4 to 6 days and last from 1 to 3 weeks, although significant individual differences occur in withdrawal expression.” The common marijuana withdrawal symptoms include:

Reducing the stress in your life will help you avoid marijuana use.

Restlessness, insomnia or strange or disturbing dreams
Fatigue
Reduced appetite, weight loss
Anxiety, irritability or aggression
Abdominal pain
Headaches
Shaking and tremors
Chills, sweating or fever
Depressive symptoms
Cravings

Most of these symptoms are not dangerous; however, worsening symptoms of anxiety and depression can lead to suicidal ideation or self-harm. Reduced appetite and weight loss can lead to dehydration or nutritional deficiencies and extreme cravings can lead to using again just to feel better.

Step Two: Consult a Doctor

Many individuals choose not to consult a medical professional during marijuana withdrawal. While marijuana detox is unlikely to be life-threatening, support from a medical professional can make the process easier and safer. They can answer your questions about the process, offer advice on detox and rehabilitation programs in your area, and, when needed, provide a referral.

Although there are no FDA-approved medications to specifically treat marijuana withdrawal, medications such as sleep aids, anti-anxiety meds or anti-emetics can be used to make the process easier.

Step Three: Reduce Your Stresses

One of the most difficult parts of marijuana detox is feeling anxious or stressed due to the body missing the calming effects of the drug. This can be eased by reducing the stresses in your life; you should consider taking some time off from work or school or limit your commitments and responsibilities while you put your health first and focus on your detox.

The more stress you have in your life, the more intense your withdrawal symptoms can feel and the more you will want to return to using marijuana.

Find a detox center that will help you overcome marijuana dependence for good!

800-996-6135

Step Four: Ask Your Friends and Family for Help

Having a support system will make it much easier to detox from marijuana. Individuals who have the support of loved ones, people who can remind them why they chose to stop using in the first place, often navigate detox more successfully and are less likely to relapse.

Step Five: Take Over-the-Counter Medication and Supplements for Your Symptoms

Several over-the-counter medications and/or supplements can be used to reduce some of the withdrawal symptoms. For example, NSAIDs, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, can help reduce discomfort.

Melatonin or valerian root can help you sleep. It is best to get advice from a medical provider before using any supplements, as they can sometimes interfere with other medications you may be taking.

Step Six: Recognize the Dangers of Marijuana Withdrawal

In most cases, marijuana withdrawal is not dangerous, but it can potentially lead to or worsen anxiety and depression symptoms.

The depressive symptoms can be mild, but if a person has been abusing marijuana for a long time and suddenly quits, it is more likely that they will have severe depressive symptoms. Some individuals may even experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

It’s important to recognize symptoms that can arise during withdrawal and understand when they may become concerning. It’s equally essential to have a trusted friend or family member with you during this time, someone who is also aware of these symptoms and can offer support if they occur.

Symptoms such as weight loss and poor appetite can lead to issues such as dehydration or nutritional deficiencies. In some cases, medications can ease these symptoms before they become problematic. In the most severe cases, intravenous fluid replacement may be necessary.

Step Seven: Seek Counseling

Whether you decide to speak to a therapist in individualized drug counseling, attend Marijuana Anonymous or another type of mutual-help group, it is important to seek out some sort of support. These supports can make it easier for you to recover from marijuana withdrawal and addiction, fight cravings, avoid triggers and get stronger and healthier every day.

Do You Need Help Detoxing from Marijuana?

If you are ready to detox from marijuana or need help finding out the best way to do so, call 800-996-6135 . We can help you find a marijuana detox center in your area or answer any questions you may have about treatment.

Sources

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2018). Marijuana.
Addiction Science & Clinical Practice. (2007). Marijuana Dependence and Its Treatment.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Available Treatments for Marijuana Use Disorders.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2015). Marijuana Withdrawal Is Real.
Marijuana Anonymous. (n.d.). How It Works.