Marijuana Withdrawal: What You Need to Know 

Cannabis use has become increasingly common, with many people using marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes. However, if you’ve decided to quit or reduce your cannabis consumption in the new year, it’s important to understand the process involved. Quitting cannabis isn’t always as simple as just stopping use — there can be physical and psychological challenges that make you quite uncomfortable. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know about marijuana withdrawal and how long cannabis stays in your system. 

Understanding Marijuana Withdrawal 

When you use cannabis regularly, your body becomes accustomed to the active compounds in marijuana, especially tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that produces a “high” feeling. When you suddenly stop using cannabis, your body may struggle to readjust, leading to what is known as marijuana withdrawal. 

Marijuana withdrawal occurs when the body reacts to the absence of THC. Unlike withdrawal from substances like alcohol or opioids, cannabis withdrawal symptoms are generally less severe (and not fatal!) but can still be uncomfortable and challenging to manage. Withdrawal can happen after even moderate use of cannabis, especially if you’ve been using it frequently over an extended period. 

Common Weed Withdrawal Symptoms 

If you’ve been using marijuana regularly and decide to quit, you may experience a range of weed withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms vary depending on the individual and the extent of their cannabis use. However, there are a few common withdrawal symptoms that many people report: 

• Irritability and Anxiety 
  One of the most common weed withdrawal symptoms is irritability. As your body adjusts to the lack of THC, you may feel more anxious or short-tempered than usual. This can be especially challenging if cannabis has been a tool for managing stress or anxiety. 
• Insomnia 
  Many people who use marijuana regularly rely on it to help them fall asleep. When you stop using cannabis, it may disrupt your sleep cycle, causing difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep. Insomnia is a common symptom of marijuana withdrawal. 
• Changes in Appetite 
  THC is known for stimulating appetite, often causing what’s referred to as “the munchies.” Without cannabis in your system, you may experience a loss of appetite or, conversely, feel cravings for unhealthy food. These changes in appetite are typical during weed withdrawal. 
• Mood Swings 
  Mood swings are another frequent weed withdrawal symptom. As your body readjusts, you may feel more emotional or experience periods of sadness or frustration. 
• Headaches and Physical Discomfort 
  Some people report experiencing headaches, stomach discomfort, and muscle aches when they stop using cannabis, particularly if these ailments were previously being treated with cannabis. These physical symptoms are usually mild but can last for several days to a week. 

How Long Does Marijuana Stay in Your System? 

One of the most important factors to consider when quitting cannabis is how long marijuana stays in your system. The answer depends on several factors, including how often you use cannabis, the amount you consume, your metabolism, and the method of use. 

• In Urine: Marijuana is typically detectable in urine for up to 3 to 30 days after use. For frequent users, THC can stay in the system for a longer period, sometimes up to 45 days or more. 
• In Blood: THC is detectable in blood for about 1 to 2 days after use, although it can be longer for frequent users. 
• In Hair: Hair tests can detect marijuana use for up to 90 days, but this is less common for routine drug testing. 

The reason THC stays in the body for a long time is that it is fat-soluble, meaning it binds to fat cells and can be stored in the body. This is why people who use cannabis frequently or in large amounts may experience a longer duration of withdrawal symptoms compared to occasional users. 

Got a drug test coming up? Here are a few tips to potentially rid your system of THC quickly. 

How Long Do Weed Withdrawal Symptoms Last? 

Weed withdrawal symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual and their level of cannabis use. On average, most people experience symptoms for about 1 to 2 weeks after quitting. However, some symptoms, like irritability and cravings, can last longer. 

• First 1-3 days: Withdrawal symptoms are often the most intense during the first few days. This is when irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances may be most pronounced. 
• 1-2 weeks: The majority of physical withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue, usually subside within the first week or two. However, psychological symptoms, like cravings or mood swings, may persist longer. 
• Beyond 2 weeks: While the acute withdrawal symptoms typically fade after two weeks, some individuals may continue to experience mild cravings or psychological symptoms for several months, especially if they have used cannabis for a long time. 

Tips for Managing Marijuana Withdrawal 

Quitting cannabis can be challenging, but there are several ways to manage weed withdrawal symptoms and make the process easier: 

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush the THC out of your system faster and stay hydrated, which can also help alleviate headaches and fatigue. 
• Exercise: Physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote better sleep. It also helps your body metabolize THC faster. 
• Eat Healthy: A balanced diet can help regulate your mood and support your body as it detoxifies. Try to avoid foods that may increase cravings for unhealthy snacks. 
• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help manage anxiety and stress during withdrawal. 
• Consider a Gradual Reduction: If quitting cold turkey feels too overwhelming, try reducing your cannabis use gradually to ease into the process. 

Manage Your Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms 

Whether you’re quitting permanently or simply taking a tolerance break to reset your tolerance, quitting cannabis is a personal journey that can come with its own set of challenges. While marijuana withdrawal and weed withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are temporary, not fatal, can be successfully managed with the right strategy. Understanding how long marijuana stays in your system and what to expect during the withdrawal process can help prepare you for a smoother transition. 

If you’re considering quitting or have already stopped using cannabis and are struggling with withdrawal, it’s always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional for guidance. The folks here at UtahMarijuana.org and our affiliated clinic, KindlyMD, are here to help. Schedule with one of our Medical Cannabis providers today. With the right tools and mindset, you can navigate the withdrawal process and move toward a cannabis-free lifestyle.