Cannabis and spice addiction in Ust-Kamenogorsk

Reviewed byRinat Zhumabekov, MDAddiction psychiatrist, experience 21 years · updated 8 Nov 2026

Key facts

ICD-10 code

F12.2

Who provides care

an addiction doctor (narcologist), a psychiatrist if psychotic symptoms are present, followed by a psychotherapist and a psychologist

Where

at home in Ust-Kamenogorsk, on an outpatient basis, or in the clinic's inpatient unit; the initial consultation can be held online

Duration

detox takes 1–3 weeks; psychotherapy and rehabilitation last from 3 to 6 months

Anonymity

medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System,” with no entry in the state dispensary registry

When it is urgent

seizures, loss of consciousness, chest pain, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts — call 103 or 112

Outcome

stable sobriety and recovery of sleep, concentration, and social activity

What you should know

Definition. Cannabis dependence syndrome is classified in ICD-10 under code F12.2. An addiction doctor (narcologist) makes the diagnosis if at least three of the following signs have been present over the past year: strong cravings, loss of control over the amount used, increasing tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, narrowing of interests, and continued use despite obvious harm. The group includes both plant-based cannabis products and synthetic cannabinoids, commonly known as spice.

Synthetic cannabinoids differ from plant-based cannabis in their unpredictable composition and much stronger effects. They are more often associated with acute psychosis, seizures, heart rhythm disturbances, and severe poisoning. That is why help for spice addiction in Ust-Kamenogorsk requires a more careful assessment of the patient's condition: Narcology 24 doctors start with an examination, a check of vital signs, and an evaluation of mental status, and then choose the treatment setting — outpatient, at home, or inpatient.

Signs of Cannabis Dependence

• use has become daily or almost daily, and the amount gradually increases
• without marijuana or spice, the person becomes irritable, anxious, and unable to sleep
• memory, concentration, and performance at school or work decline
• the person loses interest in former hobbies and in socializing outside the circle of other users
• attempts to cut down end with a return to the previous pattern of use
• episodes of panic, suspiciousness, or a feeling of being followed appear
• use continues despite family conflicts and legal risks

If two or three points apply, it is worth seeing a doctor. Phone advice is free and confidential. If life is at risk, call 103 or 112.

Why Cannabis Dependence Develops

Cannabinoids act on the brain's endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and the stress response. When these substances are supplied from outside on a regular basis, the brain's own regulation weakens: without the drug, a person sleeps worse, reacts more sharply to irritants, and feels empty inside. Synthetic cannabinoids bind to receptors more strongly than plant-based cannabis, so dependence on them develops faster and is more severe.

Risk factors are described in World Health Organization (WHO) guidance: starting use in adolescence, while the brain is still developing; a hereditary predisposition; anxiety and depressive disorders; ADHD; traumatic experiences; and a social circle in which drug use is seen as normal. Marijuana is often used as a way to cope with anxiety or insomnia, and this is exactly what reinforces the habit. That is why treatment targets not only stopping the substance but also the reasons behind its use.

How we help

Myths and facts

How a home visit works

1. Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
2. The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
3. Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
4. A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
5. Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.

Prices in Ust-Kamenogorsk

The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.

Where to get help

“Cannabis and spice addiction” in Ust-Kamenogorsk is available 24/7, including weekends. Home visits: all city districts and nearby settlements. For appointments, Narcology 24 has two branches: 131 Kazakhstan St., Ust-Kamenogorsk and 102 Utepova St., Ust-Kamenogorsk. If you live elsewhere in East Kazakhstan Region, call us and we'll advise the fastest way to get help.

Confidential and private

in Ust-Kamenogorsk our doctor can come in ordinary clothes in an unmarked car. Treatment documents are given only to the patient. If you need a certificate or sick note, this is discussed separately and only at your request.

Questions and answers