What Happens When you Quit Marijuana?

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. However, as its popularity continues to soar, there is growing concern about its potential effects on the body, particularly when it comes to withdrawal symptoms and dependence.

A recent survey found that 4.3% of Americans have tried to quit marijuana at least six times and failed, indicating that quitting marijuana may not be as easy as some might think. Furthermore, research is beginning to reveal the full extent of withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting marijuana, which can vary depending on the amount and frequency of use.

According to a meta-analysis of over 23,000 people, 47% experienced at least three withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headaches, depressed mood, difficulty sleeping, sweating, anger, nervousness, decreased appetite, and strange dreams. The severity of withdrawal symptoms is also linked to the amount of marijuana consumed, with those who consume marijuana more frequently experiencing more severe symptoms.

Irritability and anxiety peak around day three of quitting, while strange dreams and difficulty sleeping typically increase around this time. Interestingly, research suggests that chronic cannabis users may induce intrinsic sleep problems. However, by day four, the amazing physiological changes in the brain start to occur.

Marijuana contains molecules that mimic natural neurotransmitters in the brain called cannabinoids, which are present in lower quantities at baseline. When marijuana is ingested, an influx of cannabinoids floods the system, including an increase in the psychoactive component THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. THC resembles the natural neurotransmitter anandamide, causing increased neuronal activity in certain parts of the brain and magnifying thoughts, imagination, and perception. THC also affects dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the body, which can lead to euphoria, pain modulation, and anxiety.

However, prolonged use of marijuana can create a desensitization and downregulation of endocannabinoid receptors, particularly the CB1 receptor, which modulates short-term memory systems. Increased cannabis use results in decreased short-term memory. THC also affects neurons involved in the experience of novelty, creating a sense of excitement and novelty even in mundane tasks. Regular cannabis use leads to the downregulation of these neurons, making it harder to quit and harder to feel the bliss of a new experience while sober.

Interestingly, after too much marijuana use, the CB1 cannabinoid receptors may return to normal functioning by day four of quitting. It only takes around four days for the neuronal changes in the brain to go back to baseline. However, more long-term research is needed to fully understand the effects of marijuana on the brain, particularly as its popularity continues to rise.

How marijuana is consumed can also have lasting effects on the body. Smoking marijuana can have detrimental effects on lung health, and consuming too much marijuana during development, such as in adolescence, can create long-term neurophysiological effects.

Marijuana dependence is also a growing concern, particularly for those who have consumed marijuana daily for ten years or more and have attempted to quit numerous times without success. Dependence can be defined by continued use of marijuana despite social, psychological, and physical impairments. While many scientists agree that marijuana dependence exists, it is generally considered less severe than dependence on alcohol, cocaine, or opiates.

Quitting marijuana can be a difficult process, with days five to seven being the biggest hurdle for those trying to quit, according to a recent study. However, if an individual can make it to day 28 without using marijuana, all withdrawal symptoms will disappear, and the endocannabinoid system and CB1 receptors will return to baseline.

It is important to continue studying the effects of marijuana on the brain and body, particularly as its popularity increases. While marijuana dependence is considered less severe than dependence on alcohol, cocaine, or opiates, it can still have significant social, psychological, and physical effects. If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana addiction, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional. With the right support, it is possible to successfully quit using marijuana and regain control of your life.