Marijuana Overdose: Symptoms and Treatment
Marijuana is one of the most widely used drugs in the U.S., according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. There are no reports of fatal marijuana overdoses, but it is possible to overdose on cannabis. Symptoms range from mild to severe.
Dr. Aaron Weiner, a clinical psychologist and addiction specialist, tells WebMD Connect to Care that marijuana overdoses have increased in recent years—especially in states that have legalized cannabis for either medical or recreational use.
Marijuana Overdose Symptoms
Can you overdose on marijuana? Yes, but unlike overdoses of other illicit drugs, a marijuana overdose won't likely be fatal.
Here are are the symptoms you may experience if you overdose on weed:
- High levels of anxiety
- Panic attack
- Rapid heart rate
- Difficulty conversing
- Poor coordination
- High or low blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
- Extreme confusion and memory problems
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
Milder overdoses are typically characterized by nausea, anxiety, lethargy, dizziness, and paranoia, says Dr. Weiner. This set of symptoms is sometimes termed “greening out.” He adds that THC overdose signs include cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and marijuana-induced psychosis (MIP). The former involves bouts of severe vomiting and abdominal pain—usually lasting for less than 24 hours.
Courtney Allen-Gentry, an Advanced Holistic Public Health Nurse, says that marijuana overdose is unlikely with smoking or vaping. You are a lot more likely to overdose on weed edibles because it’s difficult to determine the exact dosing.
What You Should Do
When you or a loved one overdoses on marijuana, Dr. Weiner recommends a visit to urgent care. If your loved one is experiencing a psychotic break due to a weed overdose, keeping them safe is vital, urges Dr. Weiner.
In the meantime or for milder cases, RN Allen-Gentry suggests hydrating with lemon juice in water, which helps neutralize terpenes and counteracts the dehydrating effects of THC. She adds that “chewing black peppercorns will shift discomfort due to terpenes.”
If you don’t have access to those, keeping the person hydrated and comfortable and offering reassurance are the best strategies.
Get Help Now
Did you know that it’s possible to become addicted to marijuana? According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 10 users become addicted and young people are even more likely to develop an addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana addiction, WebMD Connect to Care Advisors are standing by to help.