Marijuana Withdrawal Timeline and Symptoms Duration [INFOGRAPHIC]

What Is Marijuana Withdrawal?

Marijuana is the most commonly abused drug. But most users do not know that MJ can also induce drug dependence on THC, the main active ingredient found in marijuana. Because of its psychoactive effects on the central nervous system, THC dependence occurs after a few weeks of daily use. So, once someone who’s used to smoking weed stops using marijuana, s/he can expect to experience withdrawal symptoms.

This raises several questions:

• What are marijuana withdrawal symptoms?
• When does a certain symptom occur?
• How long does the withdrawal process last?

Explore our detailed marijuana infographic to find out! If you like it, feel free to use it for your clinical office or share it. The embed code is under the image. And, if you have any questions, leave them in the comment section at the end. We try to respond to all our readers personally and promptly.

Marijuana Withdrawal Timeline

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms can begin anywhere between a day up to three after last use. Usually, the set of withdrawal symptoms lasts from a few days to a few weeks.  Moreover, marijuana symptoms of withdrawal can peak at around two to three days. And once they begin, they can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Symptoms of marijuana withdrawal are mild in comparison to stronger drugs, but can still be uncomfortable. Keep reading to find a detailed list of the most common withdrawal symptoms with a timetable of their appearance:

0-48 Hours after last dose:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Lack of focus
• Restlessness
• Sleep disorders
• Tremors

48-72 hours after last marijuana use:

• Abdominal cramps
• Chills
• Cravings
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Sweating
• Weight loss

4-14 days after last marijuana use:

• Aggression
• Cravings
• Irritability
• Lack of concentration
• Loss of appetite
• Mild depression
• Mood swings
• Sleep disorders

Week 2 after last marijuana use::

• Anxiety
• Coughing
• Insomnia
• Mild depression

How to withdrawal from marijuana? Generally speaking, marijuana withdrawal can be characterized as a mild set of psychological symptoms. Mood swings are common. So are headaches or trouble sleeping. Even though this kind of drug withdrawal is not typically dangerous, it can be very uncomfortable. So, the safest way to end marijuana addiction is under medical supervision where you can find both physical and emotional support.

How Long To Withdrawal From Marijuana?

The duration of marijuana withdrawal can last for around two weeks. Keep in mind that people who use this drug heavily may experience post acute symptoms of marijuana withdrawal. These symptoms include:

• Cravings
• Irritability
• Lack of motivation
• Memory problems
• Mild depression

How can you treat marijuana withdrawal? Again, the safest way to manage marijuana withdrawal symptoms is with the help of medically trained staff.

Let’s verify your coverage for Marijuana treatment at an American Addiction Centers location. Your information is always confidential.

Marijuana Withdrawal Timeline Questions

Do you need help for marijuana withdrawal? You’re Not Alone. Call 1-888-503-1835 for a toll-free and confidential marijuana helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

Finally, if you still have questions, please post them in the comments section at the end. We are happy to try to answer your marijuana questions personally and promptly.

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Reference sources: NIDA: Available treatments for marijuana use disorders
NCBI: Marijuana dependence and its treatment
NCBI: Pharmacological Treatment of Cannabis Dependence

About the author

Lee Weber

Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.