Are There Withdrawal Symptoms from Edibles?

While the way you consume cannabis might be different, it’s important to know that edibles can lead to the same type of withdrawal symptoms as smoking or vaping cannabis when you stop or reduce your use. This happens because your body becomes dependent on the active ingredient, THC, regardless of how you ingest it.

What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Edibles?

Withdrawal can happen regardless of how you use cannabis. Some common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Cannabis cravings
• Irritability or aggression
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
• Decreased appetite or weight loss
• Nausea 
• Headaches
• Stomach cramps
• Sweating 
• Chills 
• Shakiness

How Long Does Withdrawal Last?

Everyone experiences withdrawal symptoms differently, but there is a general timeline. The onset of cannabis withdrawal starts within a day or two after your last hit.

You’ll then experience the most intense symptoms after a few days. This usually happens within the first week.

Most of the uncomfortable symptoms should go away within a few weeks. However, you may still feel psychological symptoms and sleep problems for up to 5 weeks.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

PAWS refers to a set of symptoms that persist after the initial phase of withdrawal. This typically happens after the initial withdrawal phase and lasts for weeks, months, or even years.

Although most symptoms are primarily psychological and emotional, some physical symptoms may persist. The post-acute withdrawal symptoms from cannabis typically include:

• Insomnia or other sleep disturbances
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Headaches
• Stomach pain
• Changes in appetite
• Emotional overreactions or numbness
• Memory problems
• Stress sensitivity

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What Makes Withdrawal Worse?

Withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable, and unfortunately, it can be a lot worse. The intensity of your withdrawal symptoms can depend on a few factors, including:

• Cannabis use: How frequently you take cannabis and how much of it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms
• Potency: Taking cannabis with higher THC content can affect withdrawal
• Polydrug use: Combining cannabis with other substances can complicate the withdrawal process
• Mental health: Conditions like anxiety, personality disorders, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can potentially worsen your withdrawal experience

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Tips for Managing Cannabis Withdrawal

Cannabis withdrawal isn’t considered dangerous, especially compared to alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines. But it can be tough to deal with.

Here are some tips that can help you get through it:

• Talk to your support system: Your support network can help provide guidance and encouragement through withdrawal, this could be loved ones or support group members
• Stay healthy: Eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, exercising, and getting enough sleep can help you manage cannabis withdrawal
• Medical advice: Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re having problems coping with cravings and withdrawal
• Medications: Talk to your healthcare provider about medications that can help ease specific symptoms 

Key Takeaways

If you take too much cannabis, you’ll typically experience withdrawal when you stop using it. It doesn’t matter whether you’re smoking, vaping, or eating edibles.

Cannabis withdrawal can have uncomfortable symptoms but they are manageable. The intensity of your withdrawal depends on a few factors, such as how frequently you use cannabis, how much you take, etc.

Knowing what to expect and getting the right help can make the withdrawal process smoother. If you or someone you know has problems with edibles, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional or addiction specialist.

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