What is Spice withdrawal?

Spice can be addictive and cause withdrawal syndrome in some users. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, nightmares, headaches, trembling, sweating, and nausea. More on withdrawal from Spice here.

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Spice is a designer drug that is a synthetic form of cannabis, or marijuana. Although it was once believed to be a legal and “safe” alternative to marijuana, studies have recently shown that this may not be the case. Synthetic cannabis dangers include heart problems, vivid hallucinations, and even death.  In fact, physical Spice dependence can be dangerous and cause withdrawal syndrome in some users. Plus, Spice can be addictive.

So what happens during withdrawal from Spice? We review here. And invite your questions about getting Spice addiction help at the end.

What is Spice Withdrawal Syndrome?

Spice withdrawal syndrome refers to a set of physical symptoms that a person experiences after they quit using Spice, a synthetic cannabis. When a person becomes physically dependent on Spice, their brain alters some of its functions to adjust for the effects of the drug and maintain homeostasis. Once the drug is no longer available, the brain still functions at this adjusted level, which can cause the physical and psychological symptoms that some experience.

What is withdrawal From Spice like?

Because it is a synthetic cannabis, withdrawal from Spice is very stronger than withdrawal from cannabis, or marijuana. Individuals experiencing Spice withdrawal may feel very anxious and suffer from gastrointestinal problems. However, the manifestation of Spice withdrawal symptoms typically depends on the frequency of use. Some users may not experience withdrawal symptoms from Spice at all.

What does Spice withdrawal feel like?

Withdrawal from Spice feels like intense anxiety. The first symptoms will usually include an intense craving for the drug and irritability. Other symptoms include anxiety, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, nightmares, headaches, trembling, sweating, and nausea. Depending on the severity of the physical addiction, these symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, although they are usually the worst a few days after last use and begin to subside after this peak.

What helps Spice withdrawal?

One of the best ways to minimize Spice withdrawal symptoms is by tapering usage, or gradually reducing the amount taken each day. This allows a person’s body to get used to functioning without the drug slowly, and does not cause a shock to the system.

Individuals that are trying to quit using Spice on their own can minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduce the chances of a relapse. For instance, staying occupied with activities that don’t involve using the drug can help keep your mind off of it. It may also help to talk to a trusted friend or family member about what you’re going through, so they can be there to help you through strong cravings. Over-the-counter medications can also be used to help relieve some Spice withdrawal symptoms.

Although it’s usually not necessary, individuals withdrawing from Spice may also want to consider doing so under medical supervision. Drug detox centers allow allow individuals to withdraw and detox from drugs like Spice. The qualified professionals in detox facilities are able to help individuals deal with their physical withdrawal symptoms and work through craving. Doctors can also prescribe short acting benzodiazepines in cases of extreme anxiety, or antidepressants for those with underlying mood disorder issues. Seek professional help anytime you have a history of mental health disorders and want to get off Spice.

Questions About Spice withdrawal

It can be frustrating and scary to go through Spice withdrawal. We’re here to help answer any questions you may have and try to help you through this ordeal. If you’re looking for a little advice or just want to share your own experience, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Reference Sources: FBI – Synthetic Marijuana
Spice (Synthetic Marijuana) | National Institute on Drug Abuse
NCBI: Withdrawal Phenomena and Dependence Syndrome After the Consumption of “Spice Gold”
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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