DSM V Criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder
A problematic pattern of cannabis use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress as manifested by at least two of the following occurring in the last 12 months:
- Cannabis is often taken in larger amounts over a longer period than was intended.
- There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control cannabis use.
- A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain cannabis, use cannabis, or recover from its effects.
- Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use cannabis
- Recurrent cannabis use resulting in failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
- Continued cannabis use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of cannabis.
- Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of cannabis use.
- Recurrent cannabis use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
- Cannabis use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exasperated by cannabis.
- Tolerance, as defined by either a (1) need for markedly increased cannabis to achieve intoxication or desired effect or (2) markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the substance
- Withdrawal*
* Three or more of the following signs and symptoms develop within approxamately 1 week after cessation of heavy, prolonged use:
- Irritability, anger, or aggression
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Sleep difficulties (ie, insomnia, disturbing dreams)
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Restlessness
- Depressed mood
- At least one of the following physical symptoms causing significant discomfort: abdominal pain, shakiness/tremors, sweating, fever, chills, or headache
The severity of the disorder depends on the number of symptoms
- Mild – two or three symptoms
- Moderate – four or five symptoms
- Severe – six or more symptoms
