There are risks of use, even medicinally, and addiction is one of them.
Learn more about marijuana addiction, risk factors, effects on the brain, and more.
Illustration by Nez Riaz for Verywell Health
Is Marijuana Addictive?
Illustration by Nez Riaz for Verywell Health
Addiction vs.
Dependency
Addiction and dependency are two terms that are often used interchangeably.
There are differences between the two.
Addiction can be physical, psychological, or both at the same time.
Dependence presents as a pattern.
A person first uses a substance such as marijuana repeatedly.
This is an increased concern for younger people exposed to THC, including babies during pregnancy.
However, research is limited and the details of the negative effects on the brain are not fully understood.
Is Recreational Marijuana to Blame?
The negative effects of marijuana are not limited to recreational marijuana.
Medicinal marijuana use comes with risks too.
Despite the risks, studies of medicinal marijuana use have shown effectiveness.
Diagnosis of this condition requires at least two of the 11 criteria within one year.
Cannabis Use Disorder DSM-5 Criteria
Help for Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis use disorder is treatable.
This condition can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional such as a medical doctor or psychologist.
Treatment methods include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medications.
Summary
It is possible to become addicted to marijuana.
Men and young people are at an increased risk.
While this is a serious medical concern, it can also be treated.
Marijuana use disorder, addiction, and dependence are treatable.
Reach out to a healthcare professional such as a primary care provider or a psychologist for support.
Substance use resources are also available in local communities and at the state level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compared to alcohol, marijuana is considered to be less addictive for most people.
However, that does not mean there are no risks, and marijuana can still be addictive.
THC affects the hippocampus and the orbitofrontal cortex.
This impairs focus, memory, and functioning.
It can also be addictive.
However, it does contain THC and patients can become addicted.
Tolerance for marijuana can be reset by taking a break from use.
These breaks can range from a couple of days to a few weeks or even longer.
Some people take breaks and decide they do not want to begin using marijuana again.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Marijuana research report.
Yale Medicine.Cannabis/marijuana use disorder.
National Institutes of Health.Marijuana use disorder is common and often untreated.
American Psychological Association.Substance dependence.
American Addiction Centers.Marijuana use disorder.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Cannabis (marijuana) and cannabinoids: What you should probably know.
2020;102:152188. doi:10.1016//j.comppsych.2020.152188
StatPearls.Cannabis use disorder.
