Protocol · Mental Health
Cannabis Use Disorder Recovery Support Protocol
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are the core of this stack, with 6 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Cannabis Use Disorder Recovery Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
8 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) | Amount listed: 1,200 mg twice daily | Modulates glutamate; shown to reduce cannabis cravings and use in clinical trials
| Not graded yet | |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | Support brain health; may help with mood and anxiety during withdrawal | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Magnesium | Amount listed: 300–400 mg daily (glycinate or citrate) | Supports nervous system; may help with anxiety and sleep issues during withdrawal | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily | Often deficient in substance users; supports mood and overall health | Not graded yet | |
| Ashwagandha | Amount listed: 300–600 mg standardized extract daily | Adaptogen that may reduce stress and anxiety during recovery | Not graded yet | |
| L-Theanine | Amount listed: 200–400 mg daily | Promotes relaxation without sedation; may help with anxiety and sleep | Not graded yet | |
| Melatonin | Amount listed: 0.5–5 mg 30–60 minutes before bed | Helps with sleep disturbances common during cannabis withdrawal | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin B Complex | Amount listed: B-complex providing 25–50 mg B vitamins daily | Supports nervous system function; may be depleted with chronic use | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is characterized by problematic cannabis use leading to significant impairment or distress. Signs include using more than intended, difficulty cutting down, spending excessive time obtaining or using cannabis, cravings, continued use despite problems, and withdrawal symptoms when stopping. With increasing cannabis potency and legal availability, CUD has become more common. Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, sleep problems, decreased appetite, restlessness, and physical discomfort - typically starting 1-3 days after stopping and peaking around 1 week.
CRITICAL: While cannabis is often perceived as non-addictive, about 9% of users develop CUD (higher with earlier onset or daily use). There are currently no FDA-approved medications for CUD, but evidence-based behavioral treatments are effective: Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Contingency Management. If you want to quit, consider seeking help from an addiction specialist or treatment program. These supplements may support recovery but should complement, not replace, professional treatment.
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)* has the strongest evidence for CUD. Clinical trials show it modulates glutamate (disrupted by chronic cannabis use) and can reduce cravings and cannabis use, particularly in younger users.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* support brain health and may help with mood regulation during recovery.
Magnesium* helps with anxiety and sleep - common withdrawal symptoms.
Vitamin D* is often low in substance users and supports overall health and mood.
Ashwagandha* is an adaptogen that may help manage stress and anxiety during recovery.
L-Theanine* promotes calm without sedation, helpful for anxiety.
Melatonin* addresses sleep disturbances, which are very common during cannabis withdrawal and can last weeks.
B Vitamins* support nervous system function.
Expected timeline: Acute withdrawal symptoms typically peak around day 7 and improve over 2-4 weeks. Sleep problems may persist longer. Full neurological recovery may take months of abstinence.