Both alcohol and marijuana are commonly used substances that can lead to dependence and addiction. When someone who is dependent on or addicted to alcohol or marijuana suddenly stops or drastically reduces their use, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. Understanding the withdrawal syndromes associated with these substances can help those going through it, as well as their loved ones, better manage the process. This article provides an in-depth overview of marijuana and alcohol withdrawal symptoms, treatment methods, and tips for preventing relapse.
Prevalence and Significance of Marijuana and Alcohol Use
Alcohol is one of the most widely used and abused substances globally. According to the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health 2018, over 2 billion people worldwide consume alcoholic beverages. Alcohol consumption is linked to 3 million deaths every year worldwide, accounting for 5.3% of all deaths. Alcohol use disorder, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic disorder defined by compulsive drinking despite negative consequences. It affects nearly 4% of people at some point in their lives.
Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug worldwide, with over 188 million people reporting use in the last year, according to the 2020 World Drug Report. With the legalization of recreational and medicinal marijuana spreading across countries, rates of use continue to rise. An estimated 3 in 10 marijuana users struggle with some degree of marijuana use disorder at some point. This is defined as problematic usage leading to impairment in daily life. Of those who begin using marijuana in adolescence, up to 1 in 6 will develop an addiction.
Physiological Dependence and Withdrawal
Both alcohol and marijuana can lead to the development of physiological dependence when used heavily and regularly over an extended period of time. In those with substance use disorders, abrupt cessation or a significant reduction in intake leads to a set of distressing psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms. These manifestations can be intensely uncomfortable and difficult to cope with, which deters people from quitting and enables continued use. Understanding the dynamics of withdrawal and properly treating associated syndromes are imperative for successful recovery and relapse prevention.
What Is Withdrawal?
Withdrawal syndrome refers to the cluster of effects that occur when someone who is physiologically dependent on a substance suddenly stops or considerably reduces intake. These symptoms arise because, over time, the brain and body adapt to the constant presence of alcohol or marijuana. Neurotransmitter activity is suppressed and receptor systems are downregulated in response. When the substance is removed, the nervous system reacts negatively due to the imbalance, producing symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening depending on the substance and level of dependence.
In the case of both alcohol and marijuana withdrawal, symptoms tend to manifest in ways opposite of the intoxicating effects the substances normally produce. For example, marijuana intoxication causes relaxation, while withdrawal produces agitation and anxiety. Symptoms typically begin within 24-72 hours of last use, peak within 4-6 days, and last up to 2-3 weeks. However, psychological issues like mood instability and cravings may persist for months without proper treatment.
Understanding the nuances of each withdrawal syndrome can help properly treat symptoms, ease discomfort, prevent complications, and reduce the likelihood of relapse back into unhealthy usage patterns.
Marijuana Withdrawal Syndrome
Marijuana withdrawal syndrome was not formally recognized as a definable condition until the publication of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, in 2013. It is estimated through large epidemiological studies that up to a third of regular cannabis users develop a cluster of symptoms upon cessation. The onset of symptoms typically begins within 24-72 hours after last use, peaks in intensity by 4-6 days, and lasts for 1-3 weeks in total. However, chronic marijuana users with cannabis use disorder tend to experience more severe and persistent effects requiring structured treatment approaches.
The most commonly reported weed withdrawal symptoms include:
Physical Symptoms:
- Headaches, stomach pain, nausea
- Shakiness, sweating, chills
- Decreased appetite, weight loss
- Disturbances in sleep continuity – insomnia, vivid dreams
Psychological Symptoms:
- Restlessness, irritability, aggression
- Anger outbursts
- Anxiety, nervous tension
- Depressed mood, anhedonia
- Marijuana cravings
Those with cannabis use disorder often fail to recognize drug withdrawal as the source of these complaints. There is also significant variability in withdrawal experiences based on individual differences and the extent of prior usage patterns. Monitoring symptom progression and being aware that it eventually resolves can help promote self-care strategies.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome
Up to 50% of heavy drinkers exhibit a cluster of symptoms upon alcohol withdrawal. Following habitual and prolonged use that fosters physical dependence, changes occur in neurotransmitter systems and receptor densities in the brain. Cessation allows these systems to rebound, causing instability and nervous system hyperactivity. Onset usually begins 6-24 hours after the last alcoholic drink, with symptoms peaking in intensity between 24-72 hours.
In general, there are such signs of alcohol withdrawal:
- Stage 1 (6-24 hours): Anxiety, agitation, insomnia, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, tremors, increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Stage 2 (24-48 hours): Worsening autonomic instability with fevers, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. Potential emergence of confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Highest risk of progression to life-threatening complications.
- Stage 3 (After 48 hours): Potential progression to delirium tremens (DTs) – the most extreme manifestation of alcohol withdrawal featuring profound confusion, agitation, fever, hypertension, and tactile hallucinations. Mortality risk is up 10% in cases with DTs.
Without alcohol withdrawal treatment, symptoms typically improve in intensity after 5-7 days. However, psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, fatigue, and insomnia may continue plaguing the individual for weeks or months without proper aftercare support. Those with longstanding alcohol dependence and a history of prior detoxifications are at the highest risk for severe, dangerous withdrawal, requiring close supervision and management in specialty addiction treatment centers.
Treatment for Marijuana Withdrawal
Marijuana withdrawal syndrome follows a relatively predictable timeline, is generally self-limited, and is less physically dangerous compared to other substances. Thus, treatments focus mainly on providing supportive self-care, empathetic counseling, and building healthy lifestyle habits to ease the process. Those experiencing symptoms and looking for ways on how to detox from weed may benefit from:
- Support groups and drug counseling to process reasons for use, gain skills for managing drug cravings and other psychological symptoms
- Hot baths, massages, acupuncture, and other holistic modalities to relieve physical discomforts
- Over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen) and antiemetics for headaches, pain, nausea
- Maintaining nutrition and hydration
- Avoiding triggering environments and distracting with activities like exercise
While there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating marijuana withdrawal, certain psychiatric medications that modulate brain chemical systems impacted by chronic marijuana usage may help some individuals. For example, antidepressants can stabilize mood and anxiety, anticonvulsants lessen irritability, and sedative-hypnotics promote sleep. Consulting a healthcare provider to monitor progress and address any persistent or worsening symptoms is advised.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Treatments
Alcohol withdrawal can quickly become dangerous or even life-threatening, so emergency alcohol detox is often needed for safe withdrawal. This involves 24/7 monitoring and supportive care in a facility where vital signs and mental status are closely watched. Patients receive medications to ease symptoms, prevent further central nervous system issues, and address nutritional deficiencies.
Benzodiazepines are commonly used alcohol detox drugs. They work by calming down the hyperactive nervous system. Specific drugs can be carefully adjusted to control symptoms. Other medications treat associated issues like nausea or infections.
On average, medically-managed alcohol detox takes 3-5 days but timeframes vary by individual. This is followed by alcohol detox programs involving counseling, peer support groups, and more to help sustain long-term sobriety. Relapse within a year is unfortunately common, showing the importance of continuing aftercare and building healthy lifestyle habits.
Comparative Analysis of Alcohol and Marijuana Withdrawal
While both alcohol and marijuana withdrawal share general similarities, some key differences exist in terms of symptoms and treatments:
the comparative analysis in a table format:
| Characteristic | Alcohol Withdrawal | Marijuana Withdrawal |
| Common Physical Symptoms | Seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, progression to DTs | Headaches, nausea, appetite changes, abdominal discomfort |
| Medical Management | Usually requires alcohol detox medications like benzodiazepines to control symptoms and prevent complications | Typically managed through self-care strategies and supportive psychotherapy |
| Duration of Acute Symptoms | Variable, but can last for weeks | Generally lasts 1-3 weeks |
| Risk of Lasting Effects | Higher risk of lasting cognitive deficits and brain damage | Little evidence linking withdrawal to permanent neurological changes |
| Relapse Rates After Detox | Over 60% of relapses in the first year | Highly variable based on individual factors |
Preventing Relapse
Successfully getting through withdrawal is merely the first step towards recovery. Preventing eventual relapse requires implementing lifestyle changes and supportive psychosocial measures to reduce risk factors long-term. Evidence-based strategies include:
- Seeking outpatient counseling or intensive outpatient programming to process reasons underlying substance use. Building insight into triggers and learning coping mechanisms to prevent relapse are paramount if you are wondering how to detox from alcohol or marijuana.
- Attending self-help community support groups to share past experiences, find encouragement, and gain perspective from those also in recovery. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous provide free peer support. You can easily find such groups by doing a Google search “alcohol withdrawal centers near me”
- Making positive dietary changes, adopting regular exercise habits, and developing other dimensions of health. This builds self-efficacy and self-esteem.
- Avoiding triggering environments and social situations with access to marijuana or alcohol that could lead to relapse is probably the best way to detox from alcohol and weed.
- Cultivating recreational pursuits, hobbies, and intellectual interests incompatible with substance use and encouraging personal growth.
- Practicing relaxation techniques, mindfulness meditation, yoga, or other stress management modalities to enhance health. Managing negative emotions that could lead back to self-medication with substances is vital.
- Repairing intimate relationships and family connections that may have become damaged by past substance misuse patterns.
Having a strong social support system is also imperative for maintaining sobriety. Loved ones should educate themselves about the dynamics of addiction and withdrawal so they can better understand the challenges those in early recovery face. They can provide much-needed motivation and positive reinforcement during the difficult journey towards building a substance-free life.
Conclusion
In summary, marijuana and alcohol withdrawal bring significant physical and psychological discomfort that can deter individuals from stopping unhealthy use. But each syndrome generally follows a predictable timeline, with peak intensity lasting days to several weeks. Appropriate, symptom-targeted treatments and a strong social support system can ease the process considerably. Detoxification marks only the beginning – tailored aftercare relapse prevention strategies focused on lifestyle changes and self-improvement are vital for sustaining sobriety long-term. With commitment and perseverance, a hopeful path lies ahead.
