Here is more on medicines used to treat addiction to marijuana and it’s co-occurring illnesses.
Medicines to Treat Addiction to Marijuana
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the potent chemical in marijuana, has been steadily getting stronger over the last decade. Throughout the 60s, THC levels may have been 1%. Presently, certain marijuana plants can contain THC levels as high as 15 to 20%. The increased potency of THC matches up with the numerous studies that link marijuana addiction with mental health disorders. These levels have a profound impact upon brain function, cognitive behavior, and brain development when marijuana is used by adolescents. Withdrawal symptoms, while not dangerous enough to lead to death, can be traumatic, especially impacting one’s emotional well-being.
It has been suggested that marijuana is at the root of many mental disorders including acute toxic psychosis, panic attacks (one of the very conditions it is being used experimentally to treat), flashbacks, delusions, hallucinations, paranoia, depersonalization, depression, and uninhibited aggression. Marijuana has long been known to be a catalyst for bouts of mental illness, such as bipolar (manic-depressive) psychosis and schizophrenia.
Additionally, multiple studies within recent decades have found that both THC and marijuana are addictive. Long-term or regular use produces the same drug seeking behaviors and withdrawal symptoms present with other addictive drugs. In a government research report, researchers found that those who smoked marijuana everyday functioned at reduced intellectual levels. Self-reporting demonstrates “poor outcome on a variety of life satisfaction and achievement measures”.
Alcohol detox and drug detox monitored by certified addiction physicians can help ease the symptoms and manage the cravings associated with withdrawal. Drug rehabilitation is a necessary component to creating a stable recovery. Common medications prescribed in drug rehab centers for dual diagnosis used to treat addiction to marijuana are:
- Vistaril (hydroxyzine)
Vistaril is an antihistamine that is generally used to treat itchiness, motion sickness, nausea and vomiting. This drug is used to help with withdrawal symptoms by reducing anxiety. - Baclofen
Baclofen is a GABA receptor antagonist that inhibits the release of several neurotransmitters such as dopamine, glutamate, and noradrenaline. It works by diminishing the reward effect or positive sensations associated with drug abuse.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
