Alcohol use disorder affects 1 in 10 Americans and contributes to more than 175,000 deaths per year. But, is THC used for alcohol withdrawal symptoms, or help with treating AUD at all?
Finding safe and appropriate treatment options can help you get the help you deserve. Evidence based interventions are the safest and most effective ways to make this journey a little easier.
Key Facts
- 1 in 10 Americans live with alcohol use disorder; over 175,000 die yearly from related causes.
- Withdrawal symptoms can start 6–24 hours after the last drink and may become life threatening within 48–96 hours.
- THC is psychoactive, while CBD is non-intoxicating, and both have been studied for therapeutic effects.
- No clinical evidence supports THC for acute alcohol withdrawal; guidelines recommend proven medications instead.
- THC can worsen withdrawal risks, including sedation, anxiety, psychosis, and heart complications.
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Alcohol Withdrawal at a Glance
Alcohol withdrawal can trigger uncomfortable and sometimes serious symptoms as your body adjusts to the absence of alcohol. Understanding how these symptoms develop and the role medications may play is the first step in safely managing the withdrawal process.
Withdrawal Timeline, Symptoms & Red Flags
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to life threatening. The onset of symptoms usually occurs between 6-24 hours after the last drink. Symptoms include tremors, anxiety or insomnia.
More serious and potentially life threatening symptoms, including seizures or delirium tremens or DTs, can begin between 12-96 hours after your last drink.
Serious withdrawal symptoms, including confusion, hallucinations, fever, uncontrolled vomiting or chest pain, should be evaluated immediately by a medical professional.
Detox can occur in an inpatient or outpatient setting, including at home. Determining the appropriate level of care to safely detox depends on factors like the severity of addiction and withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring medical or psychiatric conditions and availability of support systems.
THC & CBD Basics for Context
THC and CBD are two of the most recognized compounds found in cannabis, each interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system in different ways.
While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD is non-intoxicating. Both have been studied for potential therapeutic benefits.
THC vs CBD, Products & Dosing Basics
Marijuana containing products have many different phytocannabinoids that act on the body’s endocannabinoid system. The two primary phytocannabinoids are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Our endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining balance in areas that regulate appetite, sleep, mood and the immune system. THC activates the CB1 receptors in the body. It is a psychoactive compound, causing feelings of euphoria, relaxation and altered perception.
CBD activates the CB2 receptors in the body. It is a non intoxicating compound, and has anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-anxiety properties. The full marijuana plant can be used in several forms, including flower or vapes, edibles or beverages and tinctures. The onset and duration of action depend on how it is ingested.
When cannabis is smoked, the effects can be felt within minutes and can wear off relatively quickly, whereas when consumed by eating or drinking, the onset of action is much longer, between 30 minutes and 2 hours and takes longer for the effects to wear off.
Potency can also differ between the different strains of marijuana and how it is produced. This means that it is difficult to manage how use will impact alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Does THC Help With Alcohol Withdrawal?
There are no human clinical trials that support the use of THC for acute alcohol withdrawal. In fact, major alcohol withdrawal treatment guidelines recommend it is not used.
What the Research & Guidelines Say
Most current research and guidelines recommend the use of evidenced based pharmacotherapy along with close monitoring for the treatment of acute alcohol withdrawal.
The use of THC to aid the withdrawal process is experimental in this context.
Cannabis Alcohol Patterns & the “Cali Sober”/ THC Drinks Trend
There is mixed data on the efficacy of using THC to help during acute alcohol withdrawal.
Cali sober is an informal termthat is used when a person stops using alcohol and other hard drugs but continues to use THC. Some people perceive this as a safer alternative with a reduced risk of overdose.
Many addiction professionals do not support this form of “sobriety” because it can potentially trade one addictive behavior for another and increase the risk of relapse.
THC drinks have become a popular treatment for alcohol withdrawal relief, especially among millennials and Gen Z.
While THC can help to ease some of the alcohol withdrawal symptoms, especially nausea, some research indicates that the psychoactive properties of THC increases anxiety symptoms during withdrawal.
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Risks, Interactions & Who Should Avoid THC During Withdrawal
While some people explore THC for relief during alcohol withdrawal, it’s important to recognize the potential risks and drug interactions involved. Certain individuals may face greater health concerns, making THC use unsafe in this context.
Sedation & Drug Interactions
Using THC with medications that cause central nervous system depression, such as benzodiazepines, gabapentin, barbiturates and sleep medication can be dangerous. This increases the risk of a potential overdose or accident.
The potential for overdose increases with concurrent use, resulting from the impact the drugs have on the respiratory and nervous systems. Both drugs can cause drowsiness and depressed respirations, which potentiate each other in unpredictable ways.
Accidents are more likely to occur when THC is combined with other central nervous system depressants since it can result in impaired coordination and poor judgment, leading to falls or accidents.
Psychiatric, Cognitive & Cardiovascular Risks
THC, especially in high doses or concentrates, can cause anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks and an increased risk of psychosis.
Because these symptoms are also common during alcohol withdrawal, THC potentially increases the risk of developing or making symptoms worse.
Tachycardia, blood pressure shifts and arrhythmia risks can occur during alcohol withdrawal because of dehydration, commonly found during alcohol withdrawal. Using THC increases the risk of developing these symptoms.
Who Should Not Use THC During Withdrawal
THC is typically not appropriate for people going through alcohol withdrawal, as it can worsen certain health conditions or interact with medications.
It may be best to avoid using THC during this time if you:
- Use a sedative detox regimen
- Have psychosis or severe mood disorder history
- Have heart disease
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are an adolescent or young adult related to the impact on neurodevelopment
- Have a history of cannabis use disorder
- Have a strong family history of psychosis
What to Do Instead (Evidence Based Care)
There are several evidence based care options when you’re experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal that do not include THC.
Withdrawal Management Essentials (What Works)
Research has found that the safest and most effective way to treat acute alcohol withdrawal is using qualified medical professionals to assess withdrawal symptoms using the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for alcohol or CIWA-Ar.
This allows substance use professionals to monitor the severity of alcohol withdrawal symptoms at regular intervals.
Interventions are informed by the CIWA-Ar score. These interventions can include:
- System triggered benzodiazepines treatment
- Continued close monitoring
- Seizure and delirium tremens (DT) precautions
- Correcting fluid and electrolyte balance
- Creating a plan that encourages healthy sleep habits
Individuals who choose to use cannabis to treat their acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms should:
- Avoid any sedatives with THC
- Use only low dose THC/CBD combination substances
- Practice extreme caution with dosing since strains of THC have differing levels of potency
- Stop THC if confusion, chest pain or severe anxiety emerges and seek immediate medical treatment
After Detox Treatment Options for AUD
Detox is the first step toward long lasting and sustainable recovery. A life in sobriety requires continued therapy, counseling, relapse prevention planning and aftercare. Medication assisted treatment, such as with naltrexone, acamprosate, disulfiram, or topiramate, depends on your unique treatment needs.
Treatment typically includes therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational enhancement therapy (MET) to help identify the underlying causes of addiction. This includes creating healthier coping skills and behaviors that support long term recovery and develop interventions to prevent relapse.
Mutual help groups and recovery support services such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery can provide support and understanding from peers who understand the struggles of making change and staying sober.
THC for Alcohol Withdrawal FAQs
No, there is no evidence that THC treats acute alcohol withdrawal, while benzodiazepine use is a proven first line intervention with proven seizure and DT risk reduction.
CBD is not effective for acute withdrawal and is not a substitute for guideline based detox.
THC has not been proven to effectively treat withdrawal, in part because of the variability in dosing and onset of action. The long duration of oral THC increases the risk of over intoxication and interactions with other substances.
Find Treatment Near You
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Top Rated Centers for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
| Name / Address / Rating | Description | Treatments / Payments / Programs | Review / Contact | Images | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Avenues Recovery Center at ClarksvilleAd This is an ad and Avenues Recovery Center at Clarksville is a paid advertiser. Paid advertisers may be listed first in search results. This ad may contain content provided by the advertiser. Rehab.com does not verify ad content or any reviews that are displayed. Learn More Clarksville, IN  Claimed | Avenues Recovery Center in Clarksville, Indiana, is an inpatient drug and alcohol detox and rehab center. They strive to provide individuals receiving treatment with a loving environment and attentive medical care. You’ll be away from toxic environments and triggers and have the opportunity to focus on developing life skills that will support you | Treatments Programs Payment Options  Alcoholism Mental Health And Substance Abuse Drug Addiction Opioid Addiction Substance Abuse Dual DiagnosisMental Health  Adult Program Young Adult Program LGBTQ Program Military Program  Private Insurance Self-Pay Options Medicaid Military Insurance | View Website (930) 203-1947 | 
Absolutely outstanding place for detoxing and wanting to restructure your life..If your haveing mixed emotions on where you might want to get help this is forsure the best place to do so.
Matt Harris
1 week ago
I love all the BHTs they walked me through some things, let me vent and helped me process and all the facilitators as well especially Chris and gonzo
Brittany Hon
1 week ago
Avenues is a very good program
James Turner
1 week ago
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Cave Creek, AZ | Soberman’s Estate, located in Cave Creek, Arizona, is an alcohol and drug rehab center that provides addiction treatment services to adult men, professionals, and public figures. They are a discrete, luxury rehab for individuals aged 30 to 80 years old. This location caps their treatment center at ten men at a time. Soberman’s Estate focuses on | Treatments Programs Payment Options Mental HealthSubstance AbuseAlcoholismOpioid AddictionMental Health And Substance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program Program For Men Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options Financial Aid Sliding Scale Payment AssistanceMedicaid Medicare | 
Soberman’s Estate was everything I needed for my recovery. The staff, the program, physical activity and culinary experience were top notch and essential. The program is well designed and worked better than I expected. The staff is remarkable – professional, considerate and genuinely caring. My time there and being removed from alcohol for five weeks was everything I needed to remove my craving for alcohol. Soberman has changed my life in ways I never could have imagined. I feel confident, secure and grateful for my new life. I have reconnected with my family and friends. Thank you Soberman.
George B.
2 months ago
Yes, very professional staff, treatment, therapist, chefs were good! even the home cook did the best she could, and loved the horses of Course! Saturday morning hiking was fun to explore the trails of the nearby mountain area!
John E Williams
2 months ago
I had a great experience overall and would recommend it to anyone wanted to jump start their sobriety!!
Kevin Crawford
2 months ago
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1
Top 10 Rehab in CA
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
8.81 / 10 Claimed | All In Solutions Detox in Simi Valley is one of the best ranked inpatient detox facilities in California providing safe, medically supervised care for individuals beginning their recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. As part of the All In Solutions Behavioral Health network, this facility serves as the first step in a full continuum of care. Cli | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionMental Health And Substance AbuseOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For Men Program For Women Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options | 
The staff here is amazing and so helpful
Misty Rahe
5 days ago
Excellent staff and service. Very comfortable experience. Highly recommend. The support here is amazing.
Cody Knight
3 weeks ago
Great staff every one is nice and treats everyone with respect great environment and energy
Ramon Ruiz
3 weeks ago
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1
Top 10 Rehab in TX
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
8.80 / 10 | Symetria – Hurst Outpatient Rehab and Suboxone Clinic in Hurst, Texas, is a private drug rehabilitation clinic for adults. One of the best outpatient rehab centers in Texas, Symetria offers various withdrawal medications to help clients get started with their recovery journey. You’ll also have access to treatments such as the intensive outp | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismOpioid Addiction Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicareMilitary Insurance | 
Symetria is unbelievably amazing!!! The Hurst staff is phenomenal!!! I can’t imagine that another location has a better staff. A special shout out to Deborah, Benjamin, and Samantha of course. You all are doing amazing, amazing, selfless work. You all are very special to so many!!!
Vernon Godsey III
2 months ago
Huge shout out to the team at symetria who make me feel like family I appreciate everything they do and huge shout out to Osagie for helping me! He is AWESOME!!! I love you symetria❤️❤️❤️
Chloe Roseman
2 months ago
BEST PLACE EVER. I have tried various other doctors/clinics and none of them even begin to compare to this one. The staff here is absolutely amazing. I can’t even make a single complaint. Dr Son is the best as well. He explains everything and you truly feel like he understands you. I can proudly say this, this place saved my life. If you or someone you know needs help getting off opiates do it right the first time and come here. You won’t be disappointed. If you are specifically struggling with fentanyl please don’t waste your time with other ways. I have tried 6 other methods from lazer therapy to having the earpiece to suboxone. Methadone is the key to our current fentanyl crisis. This clinic makes recovery possible again!
Mason
3 months ago
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Boca Recovery Center – Bloomington Alcohol & Drug RehabAd This is an ad and Boca Recovery Center – Bloomington Alcohol & Drug Rehab is a paid advertiser. Paid advertisers may be listed first in search results. This ad may contain content provided by the advertiser. Rehab.com does not verify ad content or any reviews that are displayed. Learn More Bloomington, IN | The Boca Recovery Center is a luxury alcohol and drug rehab center for adults in Bloomington, Indiana. They specialize in cutting edge addiction treatment provided in a residential setting. One unique part of this alcohol and drug rehab in Indiana is the peaceful, secluded setting. If recovering in a clinical hospital setting doesn’t sound very a | Treatments Programs Payment Options Drug AddictionAlcoholismOpioid AddictionDual DiagnosisMental Health and Substance AbuseSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program Seniors ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary InsuranceFinancial Aid | View Website (930) 203-1400 | 
This facility was great to my process of developing into a responsible adult and also putting my future in my hands other than others. Many Thanks to all staff for their efforts. The BOCA thorn in their side has left the building!!!
Josh Fannin
1 week ago
good support when you’re in need of it.
bcrescent
2 weeks ago
Its a great place
Andrea Youngblood
1 month ago
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1
Top 10 Rehab in FL
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
8.80 / 10 Claimed | All In Solutions Counseling Center is a mental health center and addiction treatment program in Boynton Beach, Florida. They provide a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program (IOP), an outpatient program, medication-assisted treatment, and mental health care for adults with substance use disorder. All In Solutions Counseli | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual DiagnosisMental Health And Substance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For MenProgram For Women Self-Pay OptionsPrivate insurance | 
Ms Karen from the Cherry Hill, NJ locations was just awesome. She called me every week to give me updates concerning my husband. She has been so helpful to keep me grounded and encouraged that I’m sure she did the same for her clients. I have to say she was the best, thank you Miss Karen for all you do and may God continue blessing you always..
Sandra Cornish
1 week ago
All in was a great program! The staff was amazing. Very helpful in my recovery! They were very attentive.
Mike Garcia
2 weeks ago
This place helped me when I felt like no one could, 5 stars to the techs, 5 to the therapists, and 5 to case management will love you guys for ever.
kyle Buchmaier
3 weeks ago
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1
Top 10 Rehab in NJ
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
8.79 / 10 Claimed | Boca Recovery Center – Galloway is a drug and alcohol rehab in Galloway, NJ. They provide inpatient addiction treatment and medical detox. Boca Recovery’s New Jersey Drug & Alcohol Rehab, located in Galloway, New Jersey offers residential addiction treatment, medical detox, and medication-assisted treatment in an immersive treatment s | Treatments Programs Payment Options Mental Health and Substance AbuseDrug AddictionAlcoholismOpioid AddictionDual DiagnosisSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For MenProgram For WomenSeniors ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary InsuranceFinancial Aid | 
I would highly recommend Boca Recovery Center to anyone struggling with an illness. They do an amazing job and will change your life for the better. The staff makes you feel comfortable while stretching your boundaries and understanding. One of the strongest parts of the program is their follow up after treatment, specifically the Alumni Coordinator.
Greg D
1 week ago
Amazing staff great program was life changing so glad I made that call I like to commend Jon Ashley Kevin and Mike I wish I remember the night shift names that’s an amazing staff and the cooks that was good food
Monica Garcia
2 weeks ago
Staff a Boca rehab are very caring to your needs my experience was amazing through out my recovery
Wal Williams
3 weeks ago
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1
Top 10 Rehab in TN
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
8.77 / 10 | If you’re looking for a Christian-based men’s drug rehab center, S2L Recovery in Woodbury, Tennessee, might be the place for you or your loved one. Located at the top of Short Mountain, and overlooking the green hills of Middle Tennessee, this residential and detox clinic boasts a one-to-one staff/patient ratio so there’ll always be someone t | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For Men Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options | 
Coming from Canada, I was hesitant. But God knew that S2L was exactly where I needed to be. At 64 years of age, I was able to discover my true identity, purpose, and mission in Christ. They help you in trying to get clean and sober for sure. But what S2L and the staff are all about is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That’s why it is so successful.
TIM TANNER
2 months ago
I’ve had the privilege of seeing the life-changing impact this ministry has on countless men & I can’t recommend it highly enough! God has His Hand on this ministry & I’m honored to see the Lord work in these men!
Hunter Stanfield
2 months ago
Come here with a open mind and heart. It can and WILL change your life in all ways. Trust the process and trust God! Could go on and on about how amazing this place, I’ll forever be grateful!
Trevor Woodard
2 months ago
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1
Top 10 Rehab in PA
Rehab Score
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8.76 / 10 | The Steps To Recovery addiction treatment center is situated in Levittown, Pennsylvania. At this drug rehab center, patients can expect to engage in a unique treatment approach that focuses on helping individuals recover through authenticity, intimacy, community connection, and transparency. Steps to Recovery offers a serene and private environ | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionDual DiagnosisMental Health and Substance AbuseOpioid AddictionMental Health Adult ProgramLGBTQ ProgramYoung Adult ProgramMilitary Program Self-Pay Options MonthlyPrivate Insurance | 
Good place, great housing
Nicole Rivera
1 month ago
Amazing support network and great staff lovely time with my stay at STR buck
William Perry
2 months ago
My experience at Steps to Recovery has been great for the most part, the people and the environment are very welcoming and comforting. I have had some issues that have come up, but they usually get resolved. My only main gripe is with some of the other clients at the community living house fail to clean up after themselves, and some do not know self control. But, the staff here is very professional and easy to talk to. I find that the opportunities here for my recovery journey are pretty good, although I’d like access to more holistic therapy resources. I’ve actually personally facilitated a Dharma meeting and will facilitate more in the future. I appreciate my time here at STR and am excited for the future with them.
Jerry Davis
2 months ago
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2
Top 10 Rehab in CA
Rehab Score
Our Rehab Score is designed to make it easier for you to find the best treatment centers. We combine overall ratings with recent feedback to create a score that reflects a center’s quality right now.
8.76 / 10 Claimed | Located in Watsonville, California, Elevate Addiction Services provides alcohol and drug rehab services to men and women suffering from addiction. Their levels of care include detox, inpatient treatment, and outpatient treatment. One of the best ranked Outpatient treatment centers in California, Elevate Addiction Services provides a wide continuum | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ Program Self-Pay OptionsPrivate insuranceMilitary InsurancePrivate Insurance Financing | 
Great place. The staff super nice amd very knowedgable about addictions. Its a very special place. Better than all others ive gone to. Definate thumbs up
Tyler Kerney
1 week ago
Our experience with Elevate Addiction Services has been truly life-changing. From the very beginning, the director, family liaisons, counselors, therapists, continuing care coordinators, house dad’s – we felt genuine compassion and care from everyone we had the pleasure of interacting with. We were kept informed of how our son was doing every step of the way. It never felt like we were alone in this. Everyone at Elevate was fighting for our son right alongside of us.
The love and compassion shown to our son meant everything. Today, he is living clean & sober, feeling confident in the tools and foundation Elevate equipped him with. Elevate welcomed him with open arms. Watching him complete the program and graduate has been one of the proudest moments of our lives.
We are so deeply grateful for Elevate and the loving and compassionate professionals who work there.
Without hesitation, we would highly recommend Elevate Addiction Services to anyone seeking help for themselves or a loved one. They helped our son find his way back.❤️
Kenny & Shelly Wright
2 weeks ago
Highly worth putting in the effort and money. One of the best decisions of my life was to enroll in the program at Elevate.
Jack Downer
2 weeks ago
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