Glossary term

Withdrawal: Withdrawal refers to symptoms that can happen when a medicine or substance is reduced or stopped after the body has adapted to it.

UsefulSafetySource quality: MediumLast updated: 29 June 2026

Why this term matters

Important for responsible long-term-use education.

UK medical cannabis context

This term belongs in any balanced discussion of dependence and long-term monitoring.

What not to assume

Withdrawal does not occur in everyone, and symptom intensity varies.

Careful wording: Avoid using withdrawal to scare patients or, conversely, denying it can happen.

Related glossary terms

Related MCPH pages

Sources and review notes

This entry is educational vocabulary, not medical advice. Suitability, prescribing, product choice and monitoring belong with a qualified clinician or pharmacist.