Therapy-based approaches help reduce cannabis use short-term, but improvements often fade after nine months

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) improved short-term cannabis use frequency and dependence severity, though abstinence outcomes were less consistent and improvements were not typically maintained at nine months. Treatments extending beyond four sessions were more effective. Adding Contingency Management improved outcomes. No pharmacotherapies have been approved for cannabis use disorder or withdrawal.

Data synthesis integrating findings from high-level evidence studies on behavioral and pharmacological cannabis treatment approaches, prioritizing European data where available.

Cannabis use disorder affects a growing number of people worldwide, yet treatment options remain limited. Understanding which approaches work, for how long, and what augments them helps clinicians set realistic expectations and plan treatment.

The lack of approved medications for cannabis use disorder stands in contrast to treatment options available for alcohol and opioid use disorders. The finding that behavioral treatment gains fade highlights a need for maintenance or booster strategies.

Relatively few European-specific studies were available. Synthesis approach is less rigorous than a formal systematic review or meta-analysis. Heterogeneity across included studies limits precision of conclusions.