How Long Do Weed Withdrawals Last?

Weed withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 to 72 hours after cessation, peak around days 2 to 6, and can last up to 2 weeks for most individuals. In some chronic, heavy users, symptoms may persist at a lower intensity for up to 3 weeks, but this is less common. Marijuana withdrawal symptoms are a criterion for cannabis use disorder, but not definitive of a diagnosis by themselves. In some cases, treatment for marijuana withdrawal and/or cannabis use disorder may be necessary. Weed withdrawal symptoms can be severe, but they don’t last forever.

What Are Weed Withdrawals?

Weed withdrawals refer to the withdrawal symptoms a person experiences after abstaining from using marijuana, or cannabis, for some time. Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 24 to 72 hours after cessation of heavy or chronic marijuana use, not as late as one week.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

The addictive substance in marijuana is known as THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. Research suggests up to 30 percent of regular marijuana users will become addicted to THC. [1] Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after stopping cannabis use is one of the diagnostic criteria for cannabis use disorder.

Cannabis Use Disorder

Having weed withdrawals is typically a sign that the person has developed a physical dependence on marijuana or marijuana addiction, also known as cannabis use disorder. Other signs of cannabis use disorder, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, include:

• Cravings for marijuana
• Continuing to smoke weed despite it worsening physical or mental health symptoms
• Needing more marijuana to achieve the same effect (i.e., building tolerance)
• Using cannabis in physically hazardous situations
• Failing to meet deadlines or other responsibilities due to marijuana use
• Trying to stop or cut down on marijuana use unsuccessfully
• Continuing to smoke weed even though it’s interfering with relationships
• Spending an excessive amount of time acquiring marijuana, using it, or recovering from it
• Using more marijuana than intended or for longer than intended
• Giving up other activities to smoke weed
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after abstaining from marijuana use

Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms

Marijuana withdrawal can cause behavioral, emotional, and physical symptoms. Common symptoms of cannabis withdrawal include:

• Restlessness
• Feelings of depression
• Irritability
• Aggressive behavior
• Sleep problems or sleep disturbances (e.g., nightmares)
• Stomach pain
• Shaking or trembling
• Anxiety
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Mood swings
• Fever (rarely)
• Chills (rarely)
• Headache

The severity of withdrawal symptoms varies widely, but may depend on how long you’ve been smoking weed and how frequently you smoke. You’re also more likely to experience severe withdrawal symptoms if you have certain mental health conditions, such as:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• Personality disorders
• Mood disorders

Risk Factors for Having Weed Withdrawals

It’s possible to stop using marijuana without having withdrawal symptoms, but it can be challenging to predict who will experience withdrawal and who won’t. Researchers have identified certain risk factors for experiencing cannabis withdrawal symptoms: [5]

• Regular use of marijuana (i.e., daily or almost daily)
• Using high-potency marijuana
• Use marijuana and tobacco
• Have another substance use disorder

Coping with Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms

Quitting marijuana can be hard, and withdrawal symptoms can make it more challenging. Remember that these uncomfortable side effects don’t last forever.

How Long Do Weed Withdrawals Last?

Most withdrawal symptoms will dissipate after a few days. In cases of severe dependence, symptoms can last for up to two weeks. Some experts suggest that specific withdrawal symptoms associated with frequent use can persist for up to three weeks.

Weed Withdrawal Timeline

Symptoms of weed withdrawal can begin as soon as 24 hours after you last smoked. [6] In some people, they may not appear until a week later. These withdrawal symptoms usually peak about three days after they start and can last up to two or even three weeks in severe cases.

Coping Strategies for Marijuana Withdrawal

Depending on the severity of your withdrawal symptoms, you may be able to detox at home successfully. Here’s how you can cope with the symptoms:

• Practice self-care: Let yourself rest and do something comforting, like taking a bubble bath or watching a movie with a friend.
• Eat healthy: You may be tempted to eat comfort food, but consuming whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help alleviate symptoms.
• Exercise: Aerobic exercise can boost mood and has specific benefits for people with cannabis use disorder. [7]

When Do You Need Treatment for Marijuana Withdrawal?

Professional treatment isn’t always necessary for marijuana withdrawal. In many cases, you may be able to recover at home. However, medical treatment could be necessary if you have one or more of the following risk factors:

• A medical condition that could be exacerbated by marijuana withdrawal
• Severe cannabis use disorder
• A mental health condition
• You’re using multiple drugs such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids

If you are using multiple substances such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids along with marijuana, detox from those other substances—not marijuana—is what may require medical supervision, as their withdrawal can be life-threatening.

Treatment Options for Cannabis Use Disorder

Cannabis use disorder can be successfully treated, but it may require the assistance of a substance use and rehabilitation counselor. Depending on the severity of your condition, inpatient or outpatient services in a treatment center may be recommended. Other services commonly used to treat cannabis use disorder include:

• Contingency management treatment programs
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Peer support groups

What lifestyle changes will help me quit marijuana successfully?

There are many paths to quitting marijuana and eliminating substance use from your life. Here are some strategies to try to help manage withdrawal symptoms and improve overall well-being:

• Set a quit date: This can help with accountability and give you time to adopt the right mindset for quitting.
• Anticipate withdrawal symptoms: Knowing what to expect can help you prepare beforehand.
• Lean on family and friends: Let the people you trust know about your plans to quit. If they ask for help, let them.
• Try journaling: It may help you process your feelings after quitting, and journaling can be a therapeutic activity.
• Make other lifestyle changes: Quitting weed is a good first step to a healthier lifestyle. Use this momentum to make other lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier, exercising regularly, and getting more consistent sleep.
• Take up a new hobby: Smoking pot likely took up a lot of your time. You’ll need to find an alternative way to fill your schedule so you don’t fall back into old habits. Use this as an opportunity to learn a new skill or take up a new sport.
• Have someone hold you accountable. Regularly let someone else know how you’re doing on your recovery journey. Knowing that they’ll ask you how it’s going can be motivation to stay clean.

Seek Support

If you’re experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms and need help, compassionate support is available. Cannabis use disorder is highly treatable, and a substance use counselor can help you develop a plan to detox comfortably, begin your recovery, and stay sober. You’re not alone.