800-784-1361
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.
Nearby Alcohol Rehab Centers
Loading visitor information…
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.
Call A Treatment Provider
For a conversation about what treatment options are available to you.
Make a Call
800-985-8516
Sponsored Helpline
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
Taking the first step toward a life in recovery is one of the best decisions you can make. Rehab.com offers an online databasewhere you can find the treatment program that is best for you.
You can filter treatment centers by location, level of care, insurance coverage and special program services.
Not sure where to start? Call
800-985-8516
( 
Sponsored Helpline )
today to talk to someone about your treatment options and see if your insurance will cover rehab.
Loading rehab centers now…
Top Rated Centers for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
| Name / Address / Rating | Description | Treatments / Payments / Programs | Review / Contact | Images |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| 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 Addiction Alcoholism Opioid Addiction Dual Diagnosis Mental Health and Substance Abuse Substance Abuse  Adult Program Young Adult Program Seniors Program LGBTQ Program Military Program  Private Insurance Self-Pay Options Military Insurance Financial Aid | 
Staff was amazing. Very comforting and friendly. Made me feel at home while going through a difficult time. Thank you Boca Recovery Center
Mandy Jo
3 days ago
Great living space, great food, great groups, amazing staff. I have no complaints at all. The staff would do anything possible to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Dustin Adams
3 days ago
Boca has helped me tremendously with my addictions that I’ve had, All of their staff has been wonderful and very professional, and I would recommend anybody that has any type of problems with any type of addictions or mental health to get into Boca. They certainly helped me..🙂
Roger Burkholder
3 weeks ago
| 
6 6 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| 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 OptionsFinancial Aid Sliding Scale Payment Assistance Medicaid Medicare | 
I had a great experience overall and would recommend it to anyone wanted to jump start their sobriety!!
Kevin Crawford
1 month ago
Very professional, great counselors, and a very good learning experience. Gave me structure and coping skills. Additionally, the psychiatric counseling was top notch.
Gregory Gheen
4 months ago
When it came to the realization I needed help to overcome my addiction, I ended up choosing to go to Sobermans. I couldn’t have been more grateful for this choice and the experience. I can’t say enough about the accommodations, setting, and food. However those things mean nothing without the proper staff. The best thing about Sobermans is their people. The care I received from each and every member of staff there was overwhelming. I’ve since returned for some aftercare and Alumni events, and upon my return, it feels like home. I would highly recommend Sobermans for any man that needs help with addiction or getting your mind cleared. I promise, if you put in the effort that their staff does, you will leave different person!
backfortyhunter Rose
5 months ago
| 
5 5 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| Symetria – Hurst Outpatient Rehab and Suboxone Clinic in Hurst, Texas, is a private drug rehabilitation clinic for adults. The CARF accredited clinic offers various withdrawal medications to help clients get started with their recovery journey. You’ll also have access to treatments such as the intensive outpatient program (IOP), one on one | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismOpioid Addiction Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicareMilitary Insurance | 
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
1 month ago
Entire staff was friendly, helpful and supportive throughout the whole process from reception to nurses to counselors
William Maddux
2 months ago
The nurses at the hurst location and also Samantha the receptionist are all so kind and compassionate!! They all go above and beyond the call of duty. They should all be praised for their hard work and their kindness to their patients!!
Debbie Tyler
2 months ago
| 
5 5 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| 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 | 
Great experience, professional staff, and flexibility of program was perfect for me! Feel like a new person. Thank you!
Doug Bradley
1 month ago
Steps to recovery was a great program. The bhts were great and understood what I was going through with a lot of them being in recovery as well. As well as the therapists being well trained and met my needs. Overall a wonderful program that I would return to.
Omi Floyd
1 month ago
My treatment here was absolutely a success. I came here highly depressed with a negative outlook on life with zero hope. In combination with group therapy and individual therapy, my whole perspective was changed. I’m leaving here refreshed and ready for what life has in store for me. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who is struggling with substances and or their mental health.
Abronah Chandler
1 month ago
| 
6 6 
|
2
Top 10 in Alcoholism
 Claimed | Clients seeking treatment for alcohol addiction may be required to undergo detox first. The detox process ensures any abused substances are out of a client’s system and that they are in a healthy frame of mind when they enter residential treatment. Detox is overseen and closely monitored by medical staff. The residential program takes clients | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismDrug AddictionMental Health And Substance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary Insurance | 
Going to avenues was the absolute best move I could have made..First thing I noticed was alot of people actually cared not gonna lie it was a struggle I wanted to leave more than once but I was always talked down from the caring staff that was around..There isn’t a better place the food is good, played a ton of basketball and threw the football around the fires and speakers at nite very cool only thing that was hard was the gender ban but it was that way for a reason.. Today im over a year clean and doing great in life and I can’t thank avenues enough..Its a great place but you have to give it a chance its not easy have to be ready to just give in and learn a new way of life!
sean hunter
1 week ago
Staff was friendly and seemed to really care, the day was broken up well, food was acceptable. Overall a positive experience as far as rehabilitation can go…
Conor Smith
1 week ago
The staff was always great! They helped me through many situations while I was in treatment. They game me the upmost care! They helped me find my way home.
Dark
1 week ago
| 
5 5 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| 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 | 
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
1 month ago
Everything about this place is great. Anyone struggling with addiction and wants to build a relationship with Jesus Christ this is the place to come.
Zach Walman
2 months ago
S2l recovery saved my life spiritually emotionally and physically speaking all classes and staff are very friendly and supportive people with my best in mind… Food is excellent… Lots of support and love here people are great
Andrew
2 months ago
| 
6 6 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
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. Elevate Addiction Services provides a wide continuum of care that meets each person where they are in their recovery pro | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ Program Self-Pay OptionsPrivate insuranceMilitary InsurancePrivate Insurance Financing | 
I recently completed the 30 day Core Peogram at Elevate Addiction Services in Watsonville. After two relapses following decades of previous sobriety, I knew I could benefit from an intensive inpatient residential program to set me bsck on the right path again. I’m so grateful I found Elevate right away. The 12 Steps originally got me sober, and I have no issues with AA/NA, but Elevate is based on SMART Recovery, which is built on a different foundation from the 12 Step program. I gained new insights through the intensive workbooking and structured group sessions, as well as my time spent with my on-site therapist. There’s a big emphasis on Mindfulness at Elevate, so be prepared to meditate and practice breathwork frequently. The rural location is serene, with spectacular views of the Pajaro Valley, and the wildlife is abundant. If you enjoy nature, this is a wonderful, peaceful location. The ranch-style property doesn’t look or feel institutional at all. The facilities are a bit worn (it was originally built 50+ years ago as a retirement home for nuns), so if you’re looking for a luxury rehab, this probably isn’t the place for you. But if you could benefit from delicious meals, CrossFit and yoga, volleyball and pickleball and a well-stocked game, book and DVD library, look no further! Every single employee has gone through the program themselves, so they really understand what you’re going through. Many people opt to stay on past their 60-90 day programs to train as staff members. The facilitators are caring, kind and helpful. The folks in the detox center are supportive and gentle. The security staff are strict but reasonable. Monday-Saturday, the schedule is very structured, with plenty of breaks and evening free time, and Sundays are completely free all day and night. You will be expected to do chores and follow rules. After an initial 7 day “blackout” period, clients have access during free time to shared cell phones in a common room, and once a week you have an opportunity to use your personal cell phone/laptop in a more private space. Visits from friends/family are limited, subject to pre-approval and only take place on Fridays from 3-6pm. The structure and rules are in place to help keep you focused on what you came there to do in the first place: get clean and sober! Overall, Elevate offers clients the opportunity to hit “pause” on the chaos of using and drinking, the tools to gain clarity and insight, and the strength and will to go back to living a clean and sober, productive life.
N. D.
1 week ago
Elevate was such a great program, it’s really changed my way of thinking for a positive
Thank you Elevate!!!
michael gonzales
2 weeks ago
It was the best program I could ever ask for going in at 18 I wasn’t courted to do anything the work is straight forward and really helped me to grow and mature thank you so much elevate you made me feel welcomed comforted and made me want to stay
Jayden Evans
2 weeks ago
| 
5 5 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| 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 Men Program For WomenSeniors ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary InsuranceFinancial Aid | 
It was a fine everyone was helpful and nice food was good too
Eric Kantor
1 day ago
Had a great experience at Boca recovery everyone was so helpful thanks to all staff members and clinical members
Harripersaud Subick
2 days ago
Boca Detox saved my life quite literally. I recommend if you are struggling that you reach out to these people. Sissy is my favorite person here so shout out to her..but honestly all the staff are great and they care about saving lives
Richard Forguson
2 days ago
| 
7 7 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
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 AlcoholismMental Health And Substance AbuseDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual DiagnosisMental Health Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicaidMilitary Insurance | 
Great groups and staff very good people here
Bryan Johnson
1 week ago
They helped me immensely.
Learned a lot about myself.
Charles Meadows
1 week ago
So grateful for avenues clarksville, they helped me start a journey that.i couldn’t have been more grateful, they saved my life. Shout out to all the staff. 😍
Brandon Terry
1 week ago
| 
4 
|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| Boca Recovery Center in Pompano Beach, Florida is located just 10 miles north of Fort Lauderdale. We provide comprehensive rehabilitation services ranging from medical detoxification and residential treatment to specialized programs that meet your unique needs. Boca Recovery Center in Pompano Beach, is an addiction treatment facility in Florida. Th | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionDual DiagnosisMental Health and Substance AbuseOpioid AddictionSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramSeniors ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary ProgramProgram For MenProgram For Women Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary InsuranceFinancial Aid | 
Great experience!
All the staff is great
Thank you for everything Nikki!
Eric Bryant
2 days ago
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Boca Recovery Center in Florida for years, and they continue to set the bar high. The team is professional, compassionate, and always focused on doing what’s best for their clients. Their consistency and integrity make them one of the most trusted names in the field, and I’m proud to recommend them without hesitation.
Ali Moore
2 days ago
This place is absolutely amazing. I was treated with respect and dignity by every single staff member and they did not give up on me although I left and came back multiple times.
Santiago Gamboa
3 days ago
| 
9 9 
|
