Withdrawal Sequelae to Cannabis Use

Abstract

A specific withdrawal syndrome resulting from the prolonged use of cannabis is presented. It is believed to be an underreported set of symptoms that are now emerging in the United States as a result of the increasing potency of the drug and greater numbers of long-term users. Two case studies are presented which illustrate the cannabis withdrawal syndrome in an otherwise healthy 25-year-old male and an exacerbation of a preexisting affective disorder in a 38-year-old male who prior to his resumption of cannabis use was asymptomatic for 3 years with antidepressant medications. The cannabis withdrawal sequela is presented with a discussion of differential diagnosis and implications for treatment and future research.