Finding Relief for Marijuana Withdrawal
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Read More ›Generally, marijuana withdrawal is much less intense and dangerous than other withdrawal syndromes like that of cocaine, opioid, or alcohol withdrawal. Still, marijuana withdrawal can be extremely frustrating for those going through it. When it may seem like it is hard to find relief, consider these options for minimizing some of your withdrawal symptoms and alleviating yourself from the discomfort you do experience.
Marijuana Withdrawal Treatment
While marijuana withdrawal treatment is not as regulated as that of opioid withdrawal, there are still many options you have for finding relief from your symptoms in treatment. Some patients who attend rehab for marijuana use are able to receive behavioral therapy that makes it much easier for them to cope with these symptoms. This also makes it easier for the patient to transition into marijuana addiction treatment, if necessary.
Some individuals have also been able to participate in studies for medications that might help treat marijuana withdrawal. Specifically, the issue of sleep disturbances has been targeted in order to help patients sleep better and, thus, cope more easily with their other symptoms. According to the NIDA, “Medications that have shown promise in early studies or small clinical trials include the sleep aid zolpidem (Ambien), an anti-anxiety/anti-stress medication called buspirone (BuSpar), and an anti-epileptic drug called gabpentin (Horizant, Neurotin) that may improve sleep and, possibly, executive function.”
Over-the-Counter Medications
You can find relief from marijuana withdrawal symptoms.
There are several OTC medications that might help with some of the discomforts of marijuana withdrawal including OTC painkillers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin (for headaches) and gastrointestinal medications (for stomach pain). If you can, it is important to consult your doctor and ask which medications might be best for the particular issue that is giving you the most trouble. This may also be important as certain medications might not be recommended in your condition. Discussing OTC medications with your doctor first is necessary to make sure your condition does not get worse.
Also there are herbal remedies for issues like sleeplessness, headache, and other symptoms that marijuana withdrawal often causes. Again, though, it is important to discuss these with your doctor beforehand.
Finding Relief
When most people go through marijuana withdrawal, one of the most troubling issues for them is that of the drug craving, irritability, and depressed feelings that they endure. According to the NCBI, “Many indicate that these symptoms adversely impact their attempts to quit and motivate use of marijuana or other drugs for relief.”
When you consider turning back to marijuana because of the issues caused by withdrawal, consider these options instead to help you find relief.
- Spend time with friends and family members. Even staying with someone for a week or so might be especially beneficial to you.
- Write down your progress in a journal. That way, you can look back and see that you’re getting better every day.
- Take care of yourself. Watch your favorite movie or show, take a bath, or do something you love that does not involve marijuana.
- Start a project (like crafting, woodworking, or something you can do with your hands). It will help keep your mind off the drug.
- Ask for help. It is important to remember that you are not alone.
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Finding Help for Marijuana Addiction
- An addiction to marijuana causes loss of motivation, problems with a person's employment, issues in school and more. Finding treatment can get you on the road to recovery.
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Health Effects of Marijuana
- Smoking marijuana has negative health effects similar to smoking tobacco products. Marijuana use can impact a person's health in other ways, as well.
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Marijuana Street Names
- Marijuana is one of the most commonly abused drugs. Most people do not call it marijuana or even cannabis, and instead use a number of slang names.
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Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
- With regular use marijuana dependence develops, and with dependence a person will experience withdrawal when they try to quit. Anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite and vivid dreams are some of the main symptoms.
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Warning Signs of Marijuana Addiction
- An addiction to marijuana makes people act in ways they otherwise would not have. They may be more lethargic, less motivated, and have less interest in doing things they previously enjoyed.