In today’s world, the topic of cannabis, both medical and recreational, stirs many emotions and controversies. As more countries move towards legalisation, questions about its safety become increasingly relevant. Can you overdose on cannabis? And if so, is there a lethal dose? In this article, we’ll examine these issues, learn how to safely use medical cannabis, and what to do in case of overconsumption.
What will you learn from this article?
👉 Can you overdose on cannabis?
👉 What to do when you’ve taken too much cannabis?
👉 What are the side effects of too much cannabis?
Table of contents:
Can you overdose on cannabis? 💨
Many of us have heard of people who “overdosed” on cannabis, but what does this really mean? In the case of medical cannabis used for therapeutic purposes, doses are usually strictly controlled. Dosing is always precisely matched to the condition and patient’s needs. In places where cannabis is not legal, the doses are not regulated, hence the risk of “overconsumption” will be higher there.
It’s important to know that exceeding the doctor-recommended dose may cause certain side effects. However, consuming too many cannabinoids and terpenes doesn’t lead to serious consequences. Usually, side effects are quite short-lived and pass on their own.
In cases of excessive consumption, symptoms may include anxiety, panic, and even hallucinations. It’s worth remembering that everybody reacts differently, so what means “too much” for one person might be completely fine for another. So, if you’re planning to try medical cannabis, it’s always better to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
For some people, however, the effects of “overconsumption” will be much milder. They may include strong drowsiness, increased appetite, or balance disorders. Side effects from taking too much also vary depending on the strain used.
Of course, passive cannabis smoking or a small consumed dose usually won’t cause almost any side effects. Overconsumption only becomes an issue with amounts that exceed the user’s tolerance.
Can you die from cannabis? 💀
No, you cannot die from cannabis. Scientific research clearly indicates that a lethal overdose of this substance is practically impossible, and no deaths have been recorded due to consuming too much cannabis.
Cannabis works completely differently than other psychoactive substances, such as opioids or alcohol. While overdosing on these substances can lead to respiratory depression and death, cannabis doesn’t pose such a threat. Cannabinoid receptors that THC acts on are located in brain areas not associated with vital body functions (like breathing).
Of course, excessive consumption can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as anxiety, panic disorder, or hallucinations. However, unlike many other psychoactive substances, there is no lethal dose of THC that could be overdosed on. To reach a hypothetical lethal dose, one would need to consume astronomically large amounts of cannabis in a very short time, which is practically impossible.
Lethal dose of cannabis 🪦
When we talk about cannabis dosing, it’s worth asking: is cannabis harmful? In the context of lethal doses, research shows that the theoretical lethal dose of THC is astronomically high compared to other substances.
It’s estimated that a person would need to smoke the equivalent of 20-40,000 joints, moreover within 15 minutes. Any reports of fatal cannabis overdose cases turn out to be false or involve situations where cannabis was consumed simultaneously with other, much more harmful substances.
This means that for most people, the risk of death from consuming cannabinoids is close to zero. Of course, this doesn’t mean it can be used thoughtlessly. As with any therapy, moderation is key, and a responsible approach to dosing will be essential.
Cannabis overconsumption – what to do? 😵💫
First of all, don’t panic. Overconsumption symptoms may be unpleasant, but they don’t threaten your life or health. The best solution in case of overconsumption is finding a calm place where you can relax and drinking plenty of water to help your body detoxify.
However, there are several ways to quickly alleviate the effects of cannabinoids:
- Sweets – sugar causes cannabis effects to subside very quickly;
- Black pepper – it works even faster than sugar in alleviating cannabis effects;
- Exercise – physical activity will make negative effects pass much faster;
- A hearty meal – consuming a large dish will make THC effects subside. This also applies to drinking plenty of water.
Most importantly, don’t panic. The negative effects of cannabis are only temporary – they pass on their own within a maximum of a few hours.
Cannabis overconsumption – summary 🤔
The cannabis plant, though often demonised, isn’t as dangerous as it might seem. Of course, as in every aspect of life, moderation and responsibility are key.
Cannabis, though controversial, isn’t lethally dangerous. Overdose is practically impossible, but sensibility in its use remains crucial.
Lucas Cysewski – CEO and founder of VapeFully
Medical cannabis can bring many benefits, but it’s important to use it thoughtfully and with discretion. Although it’s not completely harmless and its long-term use may have negative health consequences, there’s no risk of lethal cannabis overdose. Short-term side effects, however, are very easy to alleviate and also pass quickly on their own.
Therefore, remember that medical cannabis dosing recommended by a doctor should be followed without any abuse. This way, we minimise side effects.
(4.6/5)