Although it is generally impossible to overdose in cannabis in the traditional sense, this does not mean that it cannot result in more serious consequences that could affect a person mentally and emotionally.
As a matter of fact, many would undergo treatment in some rehab facilities in Perth to help them manage the effects of cannabis in their day to day lives.
From setting off psychotic episodes to interfering with daily tasks, relationships, and work responsibilities, too much use of cannabis could take a toll on you.
What about those times, though, when you simply take too much in one sitting? Whether you smoke occasionally or regularly, there may come a moment when you discover you overindulged. But when you’ve had too much, how would you know? Now let’s talk more about this.
Is Cannabis Overdose Possible?
“Can you overdose on cannabis?” this is among the most commonly asked questions regarding use of weed. It’s a reasonable worry as practically everything, including water, can be detrimental if taken excessively! Of course, cannabis is of no exception.
Overindulging can provide an overwhelming and unpleasant feelings even if it might not cause a lethal overdose as some other drugs can. If you take too much of weed, you could suffer from symptoms like extreme paranoia, vertigo, nausea, or even brief psychosis. It can make you feel as though your body and mind are whirling out of control.
Therefore, even if cannabis might not be fatal if you take it in massive doses, you still have to be careful. Ensuring a safe and fun experience depends on your awareness of your limitations and your body’s reactions.
Consider sugar. Although you might theoretically swallow a fatal dosage of it, the amount you would need to consume to get to that is well beyond what anyone would ever eat on a regular basis.
Also, sugar’s toxicity varies depending on body weight. For instance, for a guy weighing 90 kg (about 200-pound), it would require almost 2.7 kg (almost 6 pounds) of sugar taken all at once to reach lethal levels.
It’s the same for cannabis use. Although too much ingestion can cause strong and negative consequences, it is almost impossible to get to a very hazardous dosage. In his book, “Weed: The User’s Guide”, author David Schmader emphasises just how extreme the figures are – you would have to ingest a startling 750 kg (more than 1,600 pounds) of cannabis in just 15 minutes to start to get poisoned and face fatal consequences. That is an inconceivable quantity much beyond what any one person could physically consume or take in a brief period of time.
Let’s discuss some of the most common side effects one can have when smoking too much weed:
Side Effect 1 – Acute Cannabis Intoxication (White-Out)
A “white-out” is among the most concerning symptoms of acute cannabis intoxication. Often accompanied by dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, and, occasionally, fainting, this occurs when your face abruptly loses colour. Although these symptoms can be frightening, they are typically transient. After you relax, drink water, or consume something sweet, you could start to feel better.
However, if you or someone you know regularly suffers white-outs or difficulties with cannabis use in a way that affects daily living, then that requires urgent treatment. When it comes to this, the best thing to do is to crucial first step consult with a specialist or a rehab centre. Remember, nobody should overcome these obstacles alone – help is always available!
Side Effect 2 – Shakiness
There are several studies that prove that cannabis can help one to manage conditions like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Ironically, though, too much of it can occasionally cause shakiness and tremor instead of relief.
Although studies on these adverse effects are currently lacking, scientists speculate it could be related to how THC interacts with the central nervous system. Usually lasting anywhere from a few seconds to almost thirty minutes – these trembles are fleeting. Still, it’s advisable to visit a doctor if the shaking lasts longer or occurs regularly.
Side Effect 3 – Paranoia
Paranoia is another common side effect of weed that can hit anyone, regardless of the dose. One would start to feel a fleeting sense of discomfort. Others may feel overwhelmed, accompanied by racing thoughts, a feeling of being observed, or intense fear something terrible will happen.
With regular use over time, this paranoia may begin to affect daily life and relationships, employment, and general well-being. Seeking help from a rehab facility could be a good start if you find yourself unable to regulate your cannabis intake or end up in an anxiety and paranoia cycle.
Since THC is known to affect how the brain interprets fear and perception, cannabis can occasionally set up social paranoia. Interesting enough, compared to people who use cannabis regularly, novice users are more likely to have these effects at a greater intensity.
But seasoned users are not immune, particularly if they consume too much at once. This is why it’s crucial to pay attention to the dosage and strain, especially if paranoia starts to affect your life. Of course, professional advice is always the best course of action.
Side Effect 4 – Psychosis
Though rare, one of the most serious reactions to the use of weed, which sometimes requires urgent medical attention, is cannabis-induced psychosis. It can lead to confusion, delusions, hallucinations, and disorganised thinking, separating facts from imagination. While some people have transient psychosis, others, especially those who have a propensity to mental health disorders, may have to deal with long-term psychosis effects.
Seeking expert care is absolutely vital if you or someone you know suffer from these symptoms.
Although many people with medical disorders have found relief from cannabis, adverse effects could happen, especially if you ended up using more than what you’re supposed to. Thousands are actually hospitalized annually due to cannabis overuse. Should cannabis be interfering with your daily life, it’s a wise decision to see a professional.