Quitting alcohol isn’t easy. You experience alcohol detox symptoms such as shaking, nausea, and anxiety when you attempt it out of the blue. As a result, several alternative solutions like THC have arisen to manage these symptoms. But can THC make alcohol withdrawal easier, or does it pose more risks than benefits?
What Is Alcohol Withdrawal?
If you’ve been heavily drinking alcohol for a while, you know that withdrawal from alcohol addiction is difficult. Your body has adapted to alcohol, making it feel like you can only function properly with it in your system.
This is because alcohol affects your neurotransmitters. The alcohol slows them down and creates a sensation of relaxation. Then, your body may compensate for the slow-functioning neurotransmitters with increased excitatory chemicals. When you suddenly stop drinking alcohol, your body has to readjust again.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can begin as early as six hours after your last glass and peak within 24 to 72 hours. The most common symptoms are the following:
Anxiety and irritability.
Nausea and vomiting.
Tremors or shaking.
Sweating and rapid heart rate.
Seizures.
Delirium tremens.
How THC Affects The Body And Mind
So can THC make alcohol withdrawal easier? We’ll know more as we dive into the details. Tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Essentially, THC is what gives you the “high.” Additionally, THC also interacts with several parts of your brain.
Your built-in endocannabinoid system uses natural compounds called endocannabinoids to keep your stress, mood, appetite, and pain perception balanced. Small doses of THC allegedly reduce your stress hormones and boost your body’s dopamine release, because THC mimics your endocannabinoids. It can also allegedly suppress signals that trigger nausea and encourage eating.
This is why some people use THC to manage anxiety and loss of appetite. Moreover, THC’s pain-relieving properties appeal to those with chronic pain and discomfort.
Can THC Actually Help With Alcohol Withdrawal?
There’s limited scientific evidence to support THC as an effective treatment for alcohol withdrawal. Some studies suggest that it may reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms for opioids and nicotine, but research on alcohol withdrawal specifically is still in its early stages.
Some researchers argue that using THC during alcohol withdrawal could introduce new risks. The addictive nature of THC can create a new dependency and worsen cognitive issues.
It is, of course, still worth investigating anecdotal reports from those who have previously used THC during alcohol detox. Essentially, however, results seem to vary.
For instance, some claim that THC helps manage anxiety, nausea, and insomnia. On the other hand, some reports increase anxiety and paranoia, mental fog and a lack of focus, and dependency on THC.
Risks And Considerations Of Using THC For Alcohol Withdrawal
If you’re looking for anything to make alcohol withdrawal easier, you might be considering THC. But before grabbing some, you want to think about it. Can THC make alcohol withdrawal easier, or does it just make it feel that way?
Because THC interacts with your endocannabinoid system, it might temporarily ease some alcohol withdrawal symptoms. However, you have to remember that it doesn’t treat withdrawal. Instead, it only masks your symptoms.
The biggest concern with using THC for alcohol withdrawal is the potential for cross-dependence–swapping one substance for another. THC is easily a habit-forming substance, which can make you vulnerable to this.
Long-term THC use can also lead to more withdrawal symptoms, memory loss, and poor motivation levels.
Safer Approaches To Alcohol Detox
While THC may seem like an easy way to get through alcohol withdrawal, it is not a medically approved treatment. There’s more worth in looking into medically supervised detox through rehabs in Oregon or doing an at-home detox.
Medically Supervised Detox vs. At-Home Detox
If you’ve been a heavy drinker for a long time or you’re a young adult trying to overcome alcohol addiction, medically supervised is the safest option. Doctors can monitor your symptoms, provide medications, and step in if complications arise. This is highly recommended if you have a history of severe withdrawal symptoms or have other health issues.
On the other hand, at-home detox may be more convenient. But it comes with risks. If your withdrawal symptoms are mild, you may detox at home with plenty of fluids, rest, and support from your loved ones. But if you begin to experience rapid heart rate and severe nausea, seek help immediately.
Lifestyle Adjustments And Supportive Care
Detox is more about just getting the alcohol out of your system. Here are some key steps you can follow to set yourself up as a young adult for long-term recovery:
Stay hydrated. Alcohol can be dehydrating. Drink more water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich drinks.
Eat nutritious food. Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Get enough sleep. Sticking to a regular bedtime and limiting your screen time before bed can help offset the sleep disruption from withdrawal.
Seek support. Keep in touch with your friends, family, and support group to help make the process lighter on your shoulders.
Natural Remedies And Medications
On top of some lifestyle changes, taking these are some supplements on how to avoid withdrawal from alcohol and support your withdrawal recovery:
B vitamins and magnesium. Heavy drinking depletes these nutrients. Replenish them with supplements to improve your energy levels and reduce anxiety.
Doctor-prescribed medications. Drugs like benzodiazepine, naltrexone, and acamprosate can prevent seizures and reduce cravings after detox.
In Conclusion
Can THC make alcohol withdrawal easier? All that’s certain for now is that it is not a medically approved treatment. While some say that THC temporarily eased some of their symptoms, it doesn’t address the root causes of withdrawal. Additionally, THC carries potential risks, such as cross-dependence and worsened mental health effects.
Instead, you may want to opt for medical supervision. Doctors can provide you with the proper care, medication, and support to manage your withdrawal symptoms safely.
There’s no shortcut to overcoming alcohol withdrawal. But you’ll get there with time, the right support, and the proper approaches. If you need some guidance, call us at Cielo Treatment Center today for a safe and sustainable recovery!
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