Detox for Marijuana

Overview

Some may consider smoking marijuana a harmless, recreational activity (even though it's illegal). But regular or heavy use can affect work performance and social relationships when the user becomes dependent on marijuana. The person who decides to quit may find that cannabis dependence causes withdrawal symptoms, just as other drugs do. The body craves its regular dosage of marijuana when it stops receiving the substance, and shifts into the detoxification process. For long-term users, going through the detox period can be uncomfortable and difficult.

Symptoms

The withdrawal effects of marijuana are not as serious as those associated with harder drugs, including alcohol. But detoxification should be monitored and treated to avoid further addiction. Withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, restlessness, irritability, headaches, anxiety, stomach pain and loss of appetite. These symptoms were made evident in studies at Columbia University in New York and published in the Psychopharmacology journal in February 1999. The researchers suggested that the withdrawal symptoms may be the reason users continue to smoke marijuana or return to it before the detoxification process is completed.

Aggressive

Heavy users of marijuana displayed more aggressive behavior than infrequent users three to five days after marijuana abstinence, according to a study at McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School in Belmont, Massachusetts. Their behavior returned to normal when examined 28 days later, it was reported in Psychopharmacology in April 1999.

Treatment

Medication may be given during detoxification to relieve anxiety and restlessness, and to relax. Vitamin and mineral therapy may be used to build up the immune system and replace the deficiencies caused by the drug. It's advised to drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.

Stays in System

Marijuana is more likely to stay in the system for weeks or even months after it is last smoked, unlike many other drugs. For this reason, many marijuana users are concerned about drug testing. This can be a big problem for people when informed they need to be tested for drugs before entering the workplace. It's a good idea for them to seek medical help and advice during the detox period.

Tests

Many products claim to produce quick and helpful detox results in a bottle before drug testing. They may contain vitamins, minerals and herbal cleansers. But the instructions usually explain that you need to drink plenty of water with the product a couple of hours before a urine test. However, some experts say the water alone masks marijuana ingredients in the urine.