Are You A Heavy User Quitting THC? What Are The Side Effects

Updated on January 19, 2021

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary content of marijuana. It is responsible for the high weed smokers get. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), marijuana, also known as weed, pot, cannabis, is America’s most commonly used illegal drug.

You might have seen marijuana supporters arguing about the positive benefits of this substance, especially for treating or managing chronic pain. They always tell us that THC or marijuana has only the benefits, and it’s not harmful at all. 

But in reality, it has the potential to affect the users. It can also be dangerous for heavy users if they try to quit it abruptly. 

The side effects of quitting THC are real. They are different with each person. Heavy and long-term users face the most severe side effects compared to those who did not use it as heavily. 

Side Effects Of Quitting Marijuana

While many states in the US have allowed recreational and medical use of marijuana, people’s attitude towards it has changed a lot. Many think that it’s not addictive. 

But the truth is different.

Weed is addictive and shows withdrawal symptoms when you suddenly stop using it. The mild or moderate use of marijuana may not show any side effects once you stop using it. However, the story is not the same for heavy THC users. Quitting marijuana can lead them to mood swings, sleeping disorders, anxiety and more.

Here is the list of side effects if quitting THC abruptly:

  • Cravings
  • Loss of concentration
  • Chills
  • Disturbed appetite
  • Memory loss
  • Stomach problems
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Learning problems
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Distorted perception
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings
  • Panic attacks

As mentioned earlier, these symptoms vary from person to person. They can be mild in a few while severe in others. Even though the side effects are not life-threatening, they can disturb the ways of your life. If you are a THC user for a long time, you are more likely to experience these side effects.

Federal law treats marijuana as a Schedule I drug for a reason. It has many adverse effects on the life of the abusers. With time, it makes you dependent on it and even an addict. Plus, you are prone to several cannabis disorders during your usage period. 

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms occur in heavy THC users. Thes side effects start appearing within a week of stopping the use and include numerous unpleasant states of feelings. This happens due to the abuser’s physical dependence on THC. When you continue THC intake for a prolonged time, your body gets accustomed to it. It accepts the presence of the drug and gets numb for specific neurotransmitters. A sudden stop of THC intake can surprise your body. 

Flu, decreased appetite, and stress are some of the most common symptoms of quitting THC. And, sadly, nothing much can be done about them. 

In future, health experts may use some potential treatments to reduce marijuana withdrawal symptoms. Medical administration of THC can be one of these treatments on those who are trying to taper off cannabis. 

Nevertheless, people trying to quit THC and move on towards the better ways of life can benefit from a trusted residential treatment facility. Multiple supportive interventions, detox treatments, and monitoring from professionals can help you feel more relieved during this challenging process of quitting THC.

Why Does Quitting THC Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

Marijuana contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and terpenes that cause psychoactive effects on the user. Regular THC intake makes the brain used to it. When you suddenly stop using marijuana, your brain takes some time to adjust with no supply of THC. This is the primary reason for feeling physical and mental discomfort. 

The withdrawal symptoms go away when the body starts dealing with not having THC. But, some people still may experience cravings even after that. 

Timeline Of Side Effects 

You may experience the peak of physical discomforts and mood swings in the first week of quitting THC. This can last up to 2 weeks

While physical disorders disappear once the drug leaves the body completely, psychological issues may last longer. 

According to the research, brain receptors named cannabinoid 1 begin rebuilding its normal state after quitting THC for nearly two days. It takes around four weeks for it to function correctly. This is why cravings are common with people who have stopped using marijuana, especially in those settings where they used to smoke it.

Treatments For THC Withdrawal Symptoms

Treatments may depend on the presence of concurrent illnesses such as addiction and psychiatric disorders.

The following are the available treatment options for THC or marijuana users:

These options are great for treating severe marijuana use disorder, mental disorder, low social functioning and more.

Final Words

The best way to avoid such consequences is to stay away from drugs until your doctor prescribes it to you. But, use it only as prescribed. 

Surround yourself with supportive people to avoid marijuana addiction. Plenty of workout, balanced diet and mindfulness can help you tackle the abuse.

If you or your loved one is looking for help with marijuana addiction, contact us. We are happy to take you out of this dark and scary tunnel!

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.