In a crisis? Call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
ConditionsCUD

Cannabis Use Disorder

When cannabis use starts to interfere with sleep, work, mood, or relationships.

What to know. Usually mild to moderate; high-potency products and daily use raise risk.

First-line care
Behavioral therapy; no FDA-approved medication yet

What major medical bodies recommend first when this condition is the focus of care.

Off-label medications can be used in addition to behavioral therapy.


Symptoms

How clinicians think about it.

The DSM-5 lists eleven signs grouped into four areas. The number that fit in the past year suggests a severity — not a verdict.

LOSS OF CONTROL · 4
  • ·Using more than meant to
  • ·Wanting to cut down
  • ·Time spent using
  • ·Cravings
SOCIAL IMPACT · 3
  • ·Trouble at work / school
  • ·Relationship strain
  • ·Giving up activities
RISKY USE · 2
  • ·Risky situations
  • ·Using despite harm
PHYSICAL · 2
  • ·Tolerance
  • ·Withdrawal

Risks worth knowing

Plainly: what makes this condition dangerous.

Lower concern

Disrupted sleep on stopping

Moderate concern

Anxiety, irritability, low appetite during withdrawal

Moderate concern

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome with heavy daily use


Treatment options

What's offered, and what we usually start with.

FIRST-LINE — RECOMMENDED FIRST
01
Cognitive behavioral therapyFirst-line

Strongest evidence for cannabis use disorder.

02
Motivational enhancementFirst-line

Short, structured. Helpful for ambivalence.

03
Contingency management

Tangible rewards for negative tests. Effective in trials.


Common questions

Asked often, answered briefly.

For many people it's low-risk. For some — especially heavy daily users of high-THC products — it causes real problems. Both can be true.

i
This is not a diagnosis. These tools are for reflection and conversation. A clinician's evaluation is the only way to confirm a substance use disorder. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
Next condition
Kratom Use Disorder