Cannabis Addiction Treatment

Cannabis (marijuana) is the most widely used illicit substance in Canada. While often perceived as harmless, regular cannabis use can lead to Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)—a recognized substance use disorder characterized by problematic use, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty stopping despite negative consequences. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 27% of Canadians aged 15+ used cannabis in the past year, with 3-9% meeting criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder.

Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, with THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) being the primary psychoactive compound. Modern cannabis products are significantly more potent than historical strains—average THC concentrations have increased from 4% in the 1990s to 15-25% in flower and 70-90% in concentrates/extracts. This increased potency correlates with higher addiction risk and more severe withdrawal symptoms.

How Cannabis Affects the Brain

Cannabis works by binding to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the endocannabinoid system— a complex cell-signaling system involved in regulating mood, memory, appetite, pain, and sleep. THC mimics naturally occurring endocannabinoids (like anandamide), flooding the system and producing:

• Euphoria: Activation of reward pathways (dopamine release)
• Altered perception: Changes in sensory experience and time perception
• Relaxation: Reduction in anxiety (at low doses; increases anxiety at high doses)
• Impaired memory: Disruption of hippocampal function (short-term memory formation)
• Coordination problems: Impairment of motor control and reaction time

With chronic use, the brain adapts by downregulating cannabinoid receptors and reducing natural endocannabinoid production. This creates tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect) and dependence (requiring cannabis to feel normal). When heavy users stop, the endocannabinoid system is dysregulated—causing withdrawal symptoms until the brain readjusts.

Health Risks of Cannabis Use

Signs of Cannabis Addiction

Cannabis addiction develops gradually. Common signs include:

• Using more cannabis or for longer periods than intended
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop using
• Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from cannabis
• Strong cravings or urges to use cannabis
• Failing to meet responsibilities at work, school, or home due to use
• Continued use despite relationship or social problems
• Giving up important activities because of cannabis use
• Using cannabis in dangerous situations (e.g., before driving)
• Continued use despite physical or mental health problems
• Needing more cannabis to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using

Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome

Many people are unaware that cannabis causes withdrawal. Heavy, regular users (especially daily users) commonly experience withdrawal symptoms when stopping:

Treatment for Cannabis Use Disorder

There are no FDA-approved medications for cannabis use disorder. Treatment relies onbehavioral interventions, with several evidence-based approaches showing effectiveness:

Special Considerations: Adolescents & Young Adults

Cannabis use during adolescence carries unique risks because the brain is still developing (continues until age ~25):

• Higher addiction risk (16% vs 10% in adults)
• More severe cognitive impairment (IQ loss, executive dysfunction)
• Structural brain changes in regions governing memory, emotion, decision-making
• Increased risk of psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar)
• Academic underachievement and reduced life outcomes

For parents: Early intervention is critical. If your teen is using cannabis regularly, professional help can prevent long-term consequences. Family-based treatments (A-CRA, multidimensional family therapy) show the best outcomes for adolescents.