Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery > Drug Addiction > Is Marijuana Physically Addictive?
On Posted on by Kendall Maloof to Drug Addiction

If you use weed to relax after work, handle back pain, or get to sleep, it can be hard to square this casual vibe with the concept of addiction. But cannabis use disorder is real, and it’s more common than many think—especially for those who may eventually benefit from marijuana addiction treatment in Idaho.

Federal health agencies estimate that roughly 3 in 10 people who use cannabis develop cannabis use disorder. Dependence is most likely with heavy, frequent use, and if the person uses products with high levels of THC. There can be serious psychological and health consequences to developing an addiction to cannabis.

Physical dependence is defined as the body’s adaptation to the presence of a drug. With cannabis, this can show up as a recognizable withdrawal symptom. But it’s not usually as dramatic as with alcohol or opioids, which leads many people to wonder if marijuana actually is physically addictive. But it is in fact possible — and not believing in the possibility can lead to irresponsible use.

Why Marijuana Addiction is Confusing

Marijuana use is often seen as less risky than other forms of drug abuse. But this perception can be misleading, as problematic use and dependence can still occur. Due to a dearth of common knowledge about weed compared to other substances, it can be hard to determine if someone is addicted to cannabis.

Withdrawal Symptoms are Usually Milder Than Other Substances

Cannabis withdrawal rarely sends people to the hospital, and it doesn’t carry the same seizure or delirium risks you hear about with alcohol or benzodiazepines. That different profile can make the whole issue easy to shrug off, even when sleep is wrecked, your mood is flat, and you feel lousy without taking in cannabis products. Still, multiple clinical reviews confirm consistent physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms after regular heavy use.

Confusion with CBD

The compound called CBD is becoming more prevalent in products like beard balms, muscle rubs, and gummies. Known as cannabidiol, it doesn’t produce a “high.” Evidence to date indicates that pure CBD is not associated with abuse potential (addiction risk). THC is the psychoactive component linked to intoxication and to cannabis use disorder.

The “Natural” Nature of CBD

Cannabis originally comes from different subspecies of the cannabis sativa plant. It has been found in ancient medicines and at ancient religious sites during archeological digs. Much like psilocybin mushrooms and tobacco, cannabis has grown alongside and has been used by humans for thousands of years. Many people compare it favorably to “unnatural” drugs like powdered cocaine, crystal meth, and bath salts. But an origin closer to nature doesn’t mean that someone developing a cannabis addiction is impossible.

Historic Restrictions on Research

Because cannabis has been classified as Schedule I under federal substance laws, researchers have needed special DEA registrations to conduct studies. This has translated to restricted access to study materials and a slower timeline for launching clinical trials. That’s now improving, but the legacy of those barriers is fewer gold-standard studies than we have for alcohol or nicotine.

Recognized Medical Uses

The fact that cannabis can help some people, such as with chemotherapy-related nausea or certain seizure disorders, has led many to believe that it has no addictive potential. This idea was solidified for some during the expanding legality of cannabis products across different states.

Changes in Weed Products Over Time

The all-natural, outdoor-grown “grass” of the 1970s is no longer the only option available for cannabis use. The word “marijuana” refers specifically to the buds of the cannabis sativa plant, and this was often the only way to consume cannabis. Physical addiction and drug abuse were still possible. But people with a marijuana addiction often consumed larger amounts, grew cannabis sativa themselves, or displayed other, more obvious indicators of addiction. The amount of delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (the active ingredient in THC) in one joint or one brownie was (on average) much lower than the average cannabis product of today.

Despite there being more information available on how cannabis affects the body, many people do not consider it a drug or a potentially addictive substance. This isn’t out of pure ignorance. It speaks to the inherent nature of cannabis and its complicated history within the United States.

Now, the expanded legality of cannabis products makes answering the question “Is marijuana physically addictive?” much easier to answer. Modern dispensary shelves offer high-THC concentrates and edibles that dwarf the illegal cannabis of the past. It’s no longer necessary to commit a crime or associate with criminals to purchase cannabis. It’s easier, more convenient, and cheaper to indulge in a marijuana addiction or fall into drug abuse than in times of illegal cannabis.

Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

Addiction to cannabis doesn’t always look like stereotypical “stoner behavior.” In fact, those stereotypes can stop people from getting help for cannabis addiction. It may be easier for people of an older generation to write off symptoms of cannabis addiction because the person doesn’t “look like a hippie.” Someone who maintains a job and clean, neat appearance may find it harder to convince others that they struggle with cannabis abuse. But addiction can happen to anyone, regardless of income or background.

Symptoms of cannabis addiction may include:

  • Experiencing cravings for cannabis (and other withdrawal symptoms) when pausing use
  • Feeling like you “need” weed to feel good or have fun
  • Inability to stop using, even when you want to stop
  • Needing to consume more cannabis over time to feel effects (physical dependence)
  • Change in social circles, especially if new friends use cannabis
  • Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
  • Using weed in increasingly dangerous situations, such as when driving or watching children

Marijuana dependence is a recognized condition, and research shows that a significant number of users who develop dependence start using at a young age. Heavy and/or frequent marijuana use can also be an indication of possible cannabis addiction.

Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping cannabis use can have several effects. These may include:

  • Disturbed sleep, including vivid dreams or nightmares
  • Persistent low mood, sometimes referred to as “the miseries.”
  • Headaches
  • Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, stomach discomfort
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Irritability or feeling on edge
  • Appetite changes

These symptoms typically begin within 24 to 72 hours. They can peak within a week, and fade over 2-3 weeks for most people (sleep problems may last longer). The strength and duration of withdrawal symptoms typically correlate with how much and how often you used. In rare cases, severe or persistent withdrawal symptoms may require medical attention.

Can You Overdose on Weed?

There is no confirmed lethal overdose from cannabis alone in adults. But overconsuming cannabis (a particular danger for inexperienced users of cannabis edibles) can lead to acute poisoning. Symptoms of this phenomenon may include severe anxiety, confusion, panic, palpitations, and impaired coordination.

Marijuana Addiction vs. Marijuana Abuse

Is marijuana physically addictive? Yes. But even if someone is not addicted to cannabis, that doesn’t mean that unhealthy cannabis use is impossible.

Cannabis abuse (a subset of substance abuse) is defined as problematic use of cannabis that has negative effects on a person’s life. They still maintain some control over their cannabis use, and they can stop using cannabis to prevent adverse effects and/or damage to their relationships. They may not even use cannabis very frequently, but use heavy doses or act irresponsibly when they do. Cannabis abuse or addiction often develops gradually over an extended period of use, as prolonged consumption can lead to changes in brain chemistry and increased risk of physical dependence.

If you suspect that you or someone you love is abusing cannabis, it’s important to speak up. Not everyone can control cannabis use, and that’s okay. Not everyone can have only one alcoholic drink, and thus avoid alcohol. Stopping cannabis abuse before it evolves into addiction to cannabis can save someone a lot of heartbreak and stress down the line.

What is Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)?

If a person uses cannabis frequently for years and has cyclic episodes of intense nausea and vomiting, they may have developed cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). It is a phenomenon identifiable by the relief people experience when they take hot showers. CHS symptoms are sometimes described as “scromiting,” a combination of “screaming” and “vomiting.”

However, CHS typically only develops in people with a history of heavy cannabis use over the course of years. The condition is usually resolved after the person stops using cannabis. For many men, developing CHS is the wake-up call that their cannabis use has progressed past their ability to control it.

What Treatment for Cannabis Addiction Looks Like

There are various treatment options available for cannabis addiction, including rehab programs, therapy, and support resources. Having a cannabis addiction is not a shameful condition. What matters is how you react to it, and if you seek help before you and the people in your life suffer negative consequences. Reaching out for help with addiction is an act of strength and courage.

A treatment plan for cannabis addiction may include:

  • Medically-assisted detox to make the transition easier and support a transition into treatment.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to learn tools for handling cravings, stress, and sleep without using THC.
  • Sleep support and lifestyle tweaks (strength training, cardio, morning light, caffeine timing) to help in building up defenses against relapse.
  • Psychological support for co-occurring issues like chronic anxiety or ADHD, to prevent self-medication with cannabis use.

You don’t need to become completely straight-laced or change your personality to heal from cannabis addiction. It’s all about learning how to live without relying on cannabis (or other drugs) for happiness, fulfillment, motivation, or other purposes. Smoking marijuana isn’t necessary for a happy or fulfilling life. You’re capable of building that all by yourself.

Receive Help for Addiction at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery

If your cannabis use is growing out of your control or negatively affecting your life, Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery can help. We work to support men healing from addiction, including those who also need mental health support. Our team uses evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs and goals. A combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques, holistic treatments, and aftercare support comes together to support men healing from addiction.

Don’t wait to start living free from addiction to cannabis. Contact us today to learn more.

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