Delirium tremens (DT) is as severe as it sounds. There is nothing casual about a dangerous form of alcohol withdrawal that could potentially lead to death if not managed immediately.
Thankfully, DT can still be treated with the right medical care and attention, as well as the right medications. If you are considering using cannabis to manage your withdrawal symptoms, the information you require for its safe use is right here.
Delirium tremens is a life-threatening form of alcohol withdrawal that occurs when long-term heavy drinkers suddenly stop or reduce alcohol use. Chronic alcohol intake suppresses brain activity, and the brain becomes dangerously over-stimulated with the removal of alcohol.
DT affects the body and mind, causing severe tremors, fever, sweating, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, seizures, dehydration, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, anxiety, and insomnia. Without immediate medical treatment, DT can lead to heart failure, continuous seizures, pneumonia, and death.
Historically, cannabis was used for DT since the earliest Western cannabis texts. However, to date, there are no direct studies on cannabis and DT. Still, cannabinoids and terpenes may play a role in alleviating alcohol cravings, anxiety, depressed mood, insomnia, and other alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Some preclinical evidence suggests that, after the acute withdrawal phase, doctors may suggest medical marijuana for anxiety and alcohol-related sleep disturbances when used under medical supervision. Low doses of cannabidiol (CBD) may reduce anxiety, and carefully dosed products may help improve sleep.
Preclinical data also highlight terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and linalool for alcohol addiction, and humulene for alcohol gastritis. These early data indicate more than one potential use for cannabis in alcohol use disorder.
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Delirium tremens is a medical emergency that requires intensive hospital treatment with medications such as benzodiazepines, IV fluids, and close monitoring. Using cannabis during active DT can be dangerous, as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may worsen confusion, hallucinations, anxiety, rapid heart rate, and interfere with withdrawal medications.
After acute withdrawal, a doctor may consider cannabis for symptoms such as insomnia, nausea, or pain. Even then, it should be low-dose, closely monitored, and legally permitted. Note that delay or avoidance of medical care to self‑treat with cannabis can be deadly because DT carries high mortality without proper management.
A certified medical marijuana doctor can help support withdrawal or substance use care by ensuring any cannabis use is safe, appropriate, and legal, while prioritizing standard medical treatment. They assess withdrawal severity and refer high-risk patients for emergency or medical care.
For stable patients with mild symptoms, and where state law allows, a doctor may approve cannabis to help manage symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, nausea, or pain. They guide product selection and dosing, often favoring low-dose or CBD and CBG-dominant options, and monitor for side effects, interactions, or worsening symptoms.
To apply for a medical marijuana card, start by checking your state’s official medical marijuana program website to confirm eligibility, qualifying conditions, and telemedicine laws.
Although alcohol withdrawal itself is not a qualifying condition, some states allow approval for related symptoms such as anxiety or insomnia. If eligible, you can schedule an online evaluation through platforms like Marijuana Doctors, which will connect you with a licensed doctor. If approved, the doctor issues a required recommendation, through which you can apply for and receive your medical cannabis card.
Yes, medical marijuana may help relieve mild tremors, depression, and anxiety, but only after the acute withdrawal phase and under careful medical supervision.
In stable recovery, some (but only under medical supervision and within a structured recovery plan) may use cannabis cautiously.
Yes, a medical marijuana doctor may recommend cannabis to support specific recovery symptoms, but it requires careful supervision.
Chronic alcohol dependence alone does not qualify you for a medical marijuana card; eligibility depends on state-qualifying conditions and a medical evaluation.
For post-withdrawal relaxation and sleep, CBD and CBG-rich or indica-dominant strains may help, but individual response varies. Consult your doctor for a personalized plan.
While medical marijuana may help reduce certain types of seizures, there is no evidence supporting its use for preventing seizures during alcohol withdrawal recovery.
Yes, cannabis may increase sedation or alter the metabolism of alcohol withdrawal medications, so medical supervision is essential.
You can get a medical marijuana evaluation for anxiety after cessation if your state allows telemedicine, lists anxiety as a qualifying condition, and you see a licensed cannabis doctor online.
Medical cannabis doctors do not specialize in treating addiction or withdrawal. They can only provide adjunct symptom relief, like easing anxiety, depression, insomnia, or nausea.
Cannabis therapy may help addiction recovery by easing post-withdrawal symptoms like cravings, anxiety, insomnia, or stress that can contribute to relapse.
Written by Chiagozie Ekemezie
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