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Medically Reviewed

Marijuana Addiction: Signs, Causes, Withdrawal, Treatment and Prevention

- 22 sections

Medically Verified: February 4, 2025

Medical Reviewer:

Sahil Talwar, PA-C, MBA

medically-verified

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Marijuana addiction is a compulsive need to use marijuana despite severe harmful consequences. Marijuana is made from the Cannabis plant containing the psychoactive elements which have mind-altering effects. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 1 in 10 individuals who use marijuana become addicted, this likelihood increases to 1 in 6 when use begins before age 18.

Signs of marijuana addiction include cravings, increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and sleep difficulties, and a reduced ability to function in daily activities. According to a report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 30% of marijuana users develop some form of cannabis use disorder.

The causes of marijuana addiction involve genetic predisposition, early onset of use, and psychological factors like stress or mental health disorders. Individuals with a family history of substance use disorders are 2-3 times more likely to develop a marijuana addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms from marijuana include irritability, anxiety, restlessness, decreased appetite, depression, and insomnia.

Treatment typically focuses on behavioral interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps individuals understand and change their thoughts and behaviors related to drug use. According to Budney, A. J., et al. ‘s 2007 study, ‘Behavioral Treatments for Marijuana Dependence’, 50-60% of individuals who engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) show significant improvement in managing their addiction.

Preventing marijuana addiction involves education about the risks associated with early use and the potential for developing substance use disorders. Strategies include promoting awareness of the signs of addiction and encouraging healthy coping mechanisms for stress and mental health challenges. Community programs aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding treatment also foster a supportive environment for those seeking help with cannabis dependence.

What is Marijuana Addiction?

Marijuana addiction is the compulsive use of cannabis use leading to significant impairment or distress, clinically termed cannabis use disorder (CUD). According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a diagnosis is made when an individual exhibits at least two of the following criteria within 12 months: consuming larger amounts or over a longer period than intended, unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use, spending considerable time obtaining, using, or recovering from cannabis, experiencing cravings, failing to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home, continuing use despite social or interpersonal problems, giving up important activities, using in physically hazardous situations, persisting despite physical or psychological issues, developing tolerance, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.

What is Marijuana Addiction

The severity of CUD is categorized as mild (two to three symptoms), moderate (four to five symptoms), or severe (six or more symptoms). According to Agrawal, A., & Lynskey, M. T. ‘s 2009 study ‘The Genetics of Cannabis Use and Dependence published in the journal Addiction, individuals with a family history of substance use disorders are 2-3 times more likely to develop a marijuana addiction.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana is to the dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant, also known as cannabis, weed, pot, and bud. The plant contains over 100 compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), impairing or mind-altering, and other active compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD).

Consumption methods vary and include inhalation techniques such as smoking through joints, pipes, or bongs, where the dried plant material is ignited and inhaled. Vaporization, or vaping, involves heating cannabis to release THC without combustion, reducing exposure to harmful byproducts. Oral consumption encompasses edibles like baked goods and beverages infused with cannabis, as well as tinctures and ingestible oils. Topical applications involve cannabis-infused lotions or balms applied to the skin for localized effects. Each method offers distinct experiences, influencing the onset, duration, and intensity of effects.

How common is Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction is common in a significant portion of users in the United States. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 30% of individuals who use marijuana develop some degree of CUD. According to a study entitled “Are adolescents more vulnerable to drug addiction than adults? Evidence from animal models” (2009) by Nicole L Schramm-Sapyta 1, Q David Walker discussed that the risk of marijuana addiction is higher for those who begin using before age 18, with 17% of adolescent users developing dependency.

In North Carolina, the 2021-2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that 1.4 million individuals used marijuana in the past year, with 930,000 using it in the past month. Among those aged 18-25, 315,000 reported past-year use, and 210,000 used it in the past month. For individuals aged 26 and older, 1,027,000 used marijuana in the past year, with 677,000 reporting use in the past month. Nationally, marijuana use has been increasing. In 2021, 19% of Americans, or 52.5 million people, used marijuana at least once. Daily or near-daily use has also risen, with 17.7 million individuals reporting such frequency in 2022, surpassing daily alcohol use for the first time. Young adults aged 18-25 exhibit the highest rates of marijuana use, with 35.4% reporting use in the past year. Gender differences are evident, with 11.8% of males and 7.3% of females reporting past-month use in a 2019 survey.

Is Marijuana legal in North Carolina?

No, marijuana is not legal in North Carolina for recreational or medical use. According to AP News, efforts to legalize medical marijuana have been made, with the North Carolina Senate passing legislation in June 2024 to permit its medical use; however, the bill has not yet become law. 

In South Carolina, marijuana remains illegal for both recreational and medical purposes. Despite its illegal status, marijuana use is relatively common. According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 15.6% of South Carolinians aged 12 and older reported using marijuana in the past year, with 10.4% reporting use in the past month. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), among young adults aged 18 to 25, usage rates are higher, with 32.5% reporting past-year use and 21.1% reporting past-month use.

What are the Signs of Marijuana Addiction?

The signs of marijuana addiction are physical, psychological, and behavioral disorders. Physically, individuals experience bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, dry mouth, and impaired coordination. Psychological signs include cravings, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings. Behaviorally, addiction manifests as neglecting responsibilities, social withdrawal, and continued use despite negative consequences.

Signs of Marijuana Addiction

Physical Signs of Marijuana Addiction

The physical signs of marijuana addiction are listed below:

  • Bloodshot Eyes: The dilation of blood vessels in the eyes due to marijuana use causes a red or bloodshot appearance.
  • Dry Mouth: referred to as “cottonmouth,” this occurs when marijuana reduces saliva production, leading to a parched sensation.
  • Increased Appetite: Commonly known as “the munchies,” marijuana stimulates appetite, causing individuals to consume more food than usual.
  • Impaired Coordination: THC, the active component in marijuana, affects the cerebellum and basal ganglia, brain areas that regulate balance, posture, coordination, and reaction time, leading to impaired motor skills.
  • Elevated Heart Rate: Marijuana use causes an increase in heart rate, which persists for up to three hours after consumption, potentially elevating the risk of heart-related issues.

Psychological Signs of Marijuana Addiction

The psychological signs of marijuana addiction are listed below:

  • Cravings: An intense desire or urge to use marijuana, making it challenging to focus on other activities.
  • Anxiety: Feelings of unease or nervousness, which intensify during periods of non-use.
  • Irritability: Increased agitation or frustration, especially when unable to use marijuana.
  • Mood Swings: Frequent and unpredictable changes in emotional state, ranging from euphoria to depression.
  • Paranoia: Heightened or irrational distrust and suspicion of others.
  • Memory Impairment: Difficulty recalling recent events or information, affecting daily functioning.
  • Motivation: A noticeable decline in motivation or interest in activities once found enjoyable.

Behavioral Signs of Marijuana Addiction

The behavioral signs of marijuana addiction are listed below:

  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Individuals fail to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home due to marijuana use.
  • Social Withdrawal: A tendency to isolate from family and friends, preferring to spend time using marijuana.
  • Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences: Persisting in marijuana consumption even when it leads to interpersonal issues or legal problems.
  • Loss of Interest in Activities: Diminished enthusiasm for hobbies or activities once found enjoyable.
  • Time Spent Obtaining, Using, or Recovering: Allocating significant periods to acquiring, consuming, or recuperating from marijuana use.
  • Failed Attempts to Cut Down or Quit: Repeated unsuccessful efforts to reduce or cease marijuana use.
  • Using in Hazardous Situations: Engaging in marijuana use in contexts that increase the risk of harm, such as before driving.

What are the Causes of Marijuana Addiction?

The causes of marijuana addiction are genetic predisposition, early exposure, mental health disorders, environmental influences, stress, availability, and perceived harmlessness. 

Causes of Marijuana Addiction

Common causes of marijuana addiction are given below:

Biological Factors:

  • Genetic Predisposition:  The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that individuals with a family history of substance use disorders have a higher risk of developing marijuana addiction due to inherited genetic factors.
  • Brain Chemistry: THC, the active compound in marijuana, interacts with the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating pleasurable sensations. Over time, this leads to changes in brain chemistry, increasing the risk of addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that the developing brain is more susceptible to the effects of marijuana, making early exposure a critical risk factor.

Psychological Factors:

  • Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD use marijuana as a form of self-medication, which leads to dependence.
  • Stress and Coping Mechanisms: Chronic stress or inadequate coping strategies drive individuals to use marijuana as a means of relief, increasing the risk of addiction.
  • According to Vandrey, R., et al. ‘s 2015 study, ‘The Impact of Chronic Cannabis Use on Brain Function and Addiction’, individuals who use marijuana daily are at a 25-50% increased risk of developing cannabis use disorder. 

Environmental Factors:

  • Early Exposure: The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that initiating marijuana use during adolescence, when the brain is still developing, increases the likelihood of addiction later in life.
  • Peer Pressure and Social Norms: Being in environments where marijuana use is prevalent or accepted encourages individuals to start and continue using the substance.  According to Galea, S., et al. ‘s 2004 study, ‘The Influence of Environmental Factors on Cannabis Use’, living in an environment where drug use is prevalent increases the risk of addiction.
  • Availability and Accessibility: Easy access to marijuana facilitates frequent use, which escalates into addiction over time.

What are the effects of Marijuana Addiction?

The effects of marijuana addiction are respiratory issues, Decreased Motivation, increased anxiety, and other physical and mental health disorders. Physically, individuals experience respiratory issues, cardiovascular complications, and weakened immune systems. Mentally, addiction leads to cognitive impairments, increased anxiety, depression, and a higher risk of psychosis. These effects significantly diminish one’s quality of life and overall well-being. Recognizing these effects is crucial for individuals and healthcare providers to address marijuana addiction effectively and mitigate its impact on health.

Common effects of marijuana addiction are given below:

  • Respiratory Issues: Regular smoking of marijuana leads to chronic bronchitis, persistent cough, and increased risk of lung infections due to irritation of the respiratory tract. According to Tashkin, D. P., et al. ‘s 2012 study, ‘Effects of Marijuana Smoking on Lung Function and Respiratory Symptoms’, regular marijuana smokers are at a 25-30% higher risk of developing chronic bronchitis and persistent coughing. 
  • Cognitive Impairments: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), long-term marijuana use, especially when initiated during adolescence, leads to lasting cognitive deficits, affecting memory, attention, and learning abilities.
  • Constant Fatigue: Persistent marijuana use results in ongoing tiredness and a lack of energy, affecting daily activities.
  • Decreased Motivation: Chronic use leads to a lack of motivation, making it challenging to engage in daily activities or pursue goals
  • Weakened Immunity: Some research suggests that marijuana use impairs the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. 
  • Difficulty in Focusing: Users experience challenges in maintaining attention and concentration, impacting work or academic performance.
  • Increased Anxiety and Depression: Marijuana use has been associated with heightened risks of developing anxiety disorders and depression, though the causal relationship remains under investigation. According to Budney, A. J., et al. ‘s 2007 study, ‘Social and Interpersonal Impacts of Cannabis Use Disorder’, 40-60% of individuals with cannabis use disorder struggle with social interactions, leading to deteriorating relationships and social isolation.  
  • Risk of Psychosis: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), heavy marijuana use, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental health disorders, increases the likelihood of psychotic episodes or schizophrenia. According to Di Forti, M., et al.’s 2019 study, ‘The Contribution of Cannabis Use to Variation in the Incidence of Psychotic Disorder Across Europe’, frequent marijuana use increases the risk of developing mental health issues by up to 40%, particularly in individuals who begin using marijuana before the age of 18. 
  • Dependence and Withdrawal: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), regular use leads to dependence, with withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, sleep difficulties, and cravings upon cessation.

What are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction?

The withdrawal symptoms of marijuana addiction are irritability, anxiety, insomnia, decreased appetite, restlessness, and mood swings. When individuals who have used marijuana heavily and consistently attempt to quit or reduce their intake, they experience these symptoms as their bodies adjust to the absence of the substance. These withdrawal effects vary in intensity and duration, leading to discomfort and challenges in maintaining abstinence. 

Withdrawal Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

Common withdrawal symptoms of marijuana addiction include: 

  • Irritability: Increased feelings of frustration and anger.
  • Anxiety: Heightened nervousness or worry.
  • Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
  • Decreased Appetite: Reduced desire to eat, potentially leading to weight loss.
  • Restlessness: Inability to relax or remain still.
  • Mood Swings: Rapid and unpredictable changes in emotional state.
  • Headaches: Persistent or recurring head pain.
  • Sweating: Excessive perspiration, especially during sleep.

These symptoms typically begin within the first 24 to 48 hours after cessation, peak within the first week, and last up to two weeks or more. The severity and duration depend on factors such as the level of dependence and individual physiology.

Below are brief definitions of common withdrawal symptoms and strategies to manage them:

  • Irritability: Heightened feelings of frustration or anger. Engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to help calm the mind and reduce irritability.
  • Anxiety: Increased nervousness or worry. Regular physical activity, mindfulness practices, and seeking support from friends, family, or counselors help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
  • Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, limiting caffeine intake, and creating a restful environment to improve sleep quality helps in dealing with insomnia.
  • Physical Discomfort: General aches, pains, or flu-like symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, warm baths, and gentle stretching help ease physical discomfort.
  • Cravings: Strong urges to use marijuana. Distract from hobbies, exercise, or social activities; consider counseling or support groups to develop coping strategies.
  • Tremors: Involuntary shaking, in the hands. Ensuring adequate hydration, maintaining a balanced diet, and consulting a healthcare professional if tremors persist help in dealing with tremors.
  • Sweating and Chills: Episodes of excessive sweating followed by feeling cold. Dress in layers to adjust to temperature changes and stay hydrated to help regulate body temperature.

These symptoms begin within the first week of abstinence and last up to two weeks. Implementing these management strategies aids in alleviating discomfort during the withdrawal process.

How Long Does Marijuana Stay in Your Body?

The duration that marijuana remains detectable in the body varies depending on the testing method and individual factors. In urine tests, marijuana is detected for 1 to 30 days after use. Saliva tests typically detect marijuana for up to 24 hours, though some evidence suggests detection extends up to 30 hours after use. Blood tests have a shorter detection window, usually

up to 12 hours. Hair tests detect marijuana use for up to 90 days, as THC metabolites are incorporated into hair strands as they grow. The marijuana withdrawal timeline varies based on factors such as frequency of use, metabolism, and the sensitivity of the testing method.

What Are The Treatments For Marijuana Addiction?

The treatments for marijuana addiction are detoxification, behavioral therapies, and support groups. Detoxification involves managing withdrawal symptoms as the body eliminates THC, the active compound in marijuana. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational enhancement therapy (MET), help individuals modify thought patterns and behaviors associated with marijuana use. Support groups, like Marijuana Anonymous, provide peer support and a structured program to maintain sobriety. Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for marijuana addiction, but ongoing research is exploring potential pharmacological treatments.

Treatment for Marijuana Addiction

The treatment methods for marijuana addiction are explained below:

  • Detox: Detoxification, or detox, is the process of eliminating marijuana and its metabolites from the body through complete abstinence. This process involves managing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and decreased appetite. Supportive care during detox includes hydration, nutrition, exercise, and, in some cases, medical supervision to ensure safety and comfort. Detox serves as the initial step in overcoming marijuana dependence, preparing individuals for further treatment and long-term recovery. 
  • Medications: medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) are being studied for their potential to alleviate underlying mental health issues, which help reduce the urge to use marijuana. Additionally, naltrexone, typically used for alcohol dependence, has shown promise in reducing cannabis use in preliminary studies.
  • Therapies: Therapies for marijuana addiction encompass various behavioral interventions designed to modify thought patterns and behaviors associated with substance use. These treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify and change maladaptive thinking and behaviors; motivational enhancement therapy (MET), aimed at increasing motivation to quit; and contingency management, which provides tangible rewards for maintaining sobriety. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that integrating behavioral therapy with MAT led to a significant reduction in relapse rates and improved long-term outcomes compared to MAT alone. The American Psychological Association highlights that CBT alone reduces relapse rates by up to 40-50% over a year. These therapeutic approaches have been shown to effectively reduce marijuana use and support long-term recovery.
  • Support Groups: Support groups are peer-led gatherings where individuals struggling with marijuana addiction come together to share experiences, provide mutual support, and work collectively toward recovery. These groups follow structured programs, such as the 12-step model utilized by organizations like Marijuana Anonymous (MA). Participation typically involves attending regular meetings, engaging in open discussions, and working through established recovery steps. Support groups offer a sense of community and understanding, helping members stay accountable and motivated in their journey to overcome addiction. For those interested, MA provides resources and meeting information on its website. 

How to Prevent Marijuana Addiction?

To prevent marijuana addiction involves Education and Awareness, Parental Involvement, Policy Enforcement, Skill Development, and Media Campaigns. Prevention implementing various strategies aimed at reducing initiation and promoting healthy behaviors.

Marijuana Addiction

Here are some effective prevention tips:

  • Education and Awareness: Inform individuals, especially youth, about the risks and consequences of marijuana use through school-based programs and community workshops.
  • Parental Involvement: Encourage parents to engage in open discussions with their children about substance use, set clear expectations, and model appropriate behaviors.
  • Community Programs: Support local initiatives that provide recreational activities, mentorship, and support networks to offer alternatives to drug use.
  • Policy Enforcement: Advocate for and enforce policies that limit access to marijuana, especially among minors, through age restrictions and controlled distribution.
  • Skill Development: Implement programs that teach coping mechanisms, decision-making, and refusal skills to empower individuals to resist peer pressure.
  • Media Campaigns: Utilize mass media to disseminate messages highlighting the dangers of marijuana use and promoting healthy lifestyles.
  • Early Intervention: identify and support individuals at risk of substance use through counseling and access to mental health services.

Can you Overdose on Marijuana?

Yes, you can overdose on marijuana if you consume high doses, leading to severe adverse effects. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that while a fatal overdose is unlikely, consuming high doses of marijuana leads to severe adverse effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, and, in rare cases, psychotic reactions. Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) highlights that today’s marijuana is more potent than in the past, which contributes to increased negative and long-term effects. However, there is no standardized maximum quantity of marijuana that leads to overdose, as individual reactions vary based on factors like tolerance, method of consumption, and personal health conditions.

What are the Marijuana Overdose Symptoms?

The marijuana overdose symptoms are anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, pale skin color, and unresponsiveness. When an individual consumes excessive amounts of marijuana, they experience these adverse effects, which vary in severity based on factors such as the method of consumption and individual tolerance. While a fatal overdose is extremely unlikely, these symptoms are distressing and require medical attention.

The marijuana overdose symptoms include:

  • Anxiety: Intense feelings of unease or nervousness.
  • Paranoia: Irrational distrust or suspicion of others.
  • Panic Attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like shortness of breath.
  • Elevated Heart Rate: Noticeably increased pulse, which is uncomfortable and alarming.
  • High Blood Pressure: Elevated blood pressure levels, pose risks, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
  • Pale Skin Color: Unusual lightening of the skin, indicating potential circulatory issues.
  • Unresponsiveness: Difficulty in rousing the individual or a lack of reaction to external stimuli.

What Are the Dangers of Mixing Marijuana With Other Substances?

Combining marijuana with other substances, whether intentionally or through contamination, poses significant health risks. Intentional mixing, known as polysubstance use, leads to unpredictable effects, as the interaction between marijuana and other drugs amplifies adverse reactions. For instance, combining marijuana with alcohol results in heightened impairment, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Unintentional lacing of marijuana with substances like synthetic cannabinoids, PCP, or opioids leads to severe health consequences, including respiratory distress, seizures, or even death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that mixing drugs is not worth the risk of overdose, as nearly half of drug overdose deaths in 2022 involved multiple drugs. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of these dangers and to avoid combining marijuana with other substances to minimize health risks.

What Happens When You Mix Marijuana and Alcohol?

Combining marijuana and alcohol leads to unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that using marijuana in combination with alcohol increases the risk of impairment more than using either substance alone. This combination results in heightened impairment, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Additionally, both substances impair judgment and motor coordination, further elevating the risk of engaging in risky behaviors. 

Is Marijuana more addictive than Cocaine?

No, marijuana is considered less addictive than cocaine. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 9% of individuals who use marijuana develop a dependence, whereas 17% of those who use cocaine become dependent. This indicates that cocaine has a higher potential for addiction compared to marijuana. However, it’s important to note that both substances carry risks of dependence and lead to significant health and social consequences.

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