Cannabis Use Disorder
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Cannabis (marijuana) use disorder (CUD) is a medical condition that develops from long-term use or misuse of cannabis. You are not able to stop even though it causes physical or social problems. CUD is also called cannabis abuse.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your doctor if:
- You want help or more information on how to decrease or stop using cannabis.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Therapy
may be offered in a hospital, outpatient facility, or treatment center. Your healthcare provider can help you make decisions about therapy treatment. The goal is to help you decrease or stop taking cannabis. The following are common types of therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you manage depression and anxiety caused by CUD. CBT can be done with you and a talk therapist or in a group with others.
- Motivational enhancement therapy can help you set and reach healthy, positive goals.
- Twelve-step facilitation (TSF) is a short, structured approach to reach early recovery. It is done one-to-one with a therapist in 12 to 15 sessions.
What you need to know about cannabis safety:
- Do not mix cannabis with medicines, drugs, or alcohol. The combination can cause an overdose, or cause you to stop breathing.
- Do not use cannabis if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Cannabis stays in fat cells and can be transferred slowly to your baby over a long period of time. Cannabis can affect your baby's growth and development.
- Keep cannabis out of the reach of children. Store it in a locked cabinet or in a location that children cannot get to.
Follow up with your doctor or therapist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
For more information:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
PO Box 2345
Rockville , MD 20847-2345
Web Address: http://www.samhsa.gov or https://dpt2.samhsa.gov/treatment/
- National Institute on Drug Abuse
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 5213
Bethesda , MD 20892-9561
Phone: 1- 301 - 443-1124
Web Address: www.nida.nih.gov
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.