Marijuana is one of the most widely used drugs in the U.S., which can sometimes cause people to believe it does not pose a risk for overdose but is this correct? Can you overdose on marijuana?
In this article will explore everything you need to know about cannabis use, including the potential and risks of overdoses and how you can seek help if you are concerned about how you or a loved one are using marijuana.
If you or someone you love is addicted to marijuana and needs help now contact us today at 888-995-5265. If you have insurance from a major provider some or all of your treatment may be covered. Click here to complete our no-cost, 100% confidential insurance verification form so you or a loved one can start treatment today.
What is Marijuana?
Before we explore if you can overdose on marijuana, it’s important to understand what exactly marijuana is.
Marijuana is a plant that contains over 100 compounds known as cannabinoids. Most notably, the cannabinoid known as Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is known for producing the “high” feeling that users seek. This cannabinoid can elicit side effects on a person’s body and mind, and if too much THC is consumed, it can cause a marijuana overdose.
Can You Overdose on Marijuana?
An overdose of marijuana is possible, and it can cause impairment of attention, memory, executive functioning, and short-term memory.
Studies show that when inhaled, does of 2 to 3mg of THC can produce toxic effects and lead to overdose. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), a fatal marijuana overdose is unlikely. However, that does not mean that consuming too much marijuana does not pose serious health risks.
It is also important to remember that some methods of marijuana use, such as consuming edibles, may have a higher likelihood of overdose.
Edible Marijuana Overdose
Due to the delayed effects of marijuana edibles, it’s easier to overdo the dose when consuming in this manner. Unlike a person who smokes marijuana, when marijuana is consumed in an edible form, the effects can take much longer to notice. This is because the drug has to be processed through the digestive system first.
As such, the risk of overdose is higher when using edibles compared to smoking cannabis, as people tend to consume more edibles to gain the same effects that they associate with smoking marijuana.
How Long Does it Take for Marijuana to Affect the Body?
Marijuana can be consumed in various ways, including smoke inhalation, edibles, tinctures, and more. Depending on the method of consumption, it may take different amounts of time for a person to begin to feel the effects of the drug.
When a person smokes marijuana, the drug is inhaled through the lungs and travels to the bloodstream. Within just minutes, the brain will begin to feel the effects of marijuana. Some common effects of excessive consumption include:
- Increased hunger
- Poor coordination
- Fatigue
- Increased heart rate
- Trouble thinking clearly
- Poor memory
- Distorted sense of time
- Changes in mood
- Delirium
- Hypotension
- Respiratory depression
How Much Marijuana Is Too Much?
While a fatal overdose is extremely rare, taking too much marijuana can leave users with uncomfortable symptoms. Each person will respond differently to cannabis use. A range of factors can contribute to this, including their past medical history, tolerance, weight, current medications, frequency of use, and other lifestyle factors. With this in mind, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for how much marijuana will cause an overdose.
Symptoms of Marijuana Overdose
Some signs you may have consumed too much marijuana include:
- Chest pain
- Rapid beating heart
- Vomiting or nausea
- Paranoia
- Trouble breathing
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety or panic attacks
What To Do if You’ve Consumed Too Much Marijuana
If you or a loved one has consumed too much marijuana, there is nothing that you can do to make the uncomfortable symptoms stop. The drug naturally has to wear off over time in order for the symptoms to cease. However, if you feel you’ve consumed too much, there are some coping mechanisms that can help you get through until the symptoms stop.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Distractions to Pass Time
Call A Friend or Family Member
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing or an excessively fast heart rate, then it’s vital that you seek immediate medical attention.
Treatments for Marijuana Abuse
Stopping using marijuana on your own can be difficult and lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, restlessness, and agitation. Furthermore, people withdrawing from marijuana may experience trouble sleeping, feelings of depression or anxiety, and struggle to perform daily activities.
Medical detox services specific to marijuana withdrawal can help you detox in a safe and controlled setting and manage withdrawal symptoms in a comfortable and supportive environment. If you or a loved one is struggling to detox from marijuana, Summit Detox can help. Our marijuana detox center, located in Boynton Beach, FL, offers a safe and effective way to help you overcome marijuana abuse. Contact us today at (888)-995-5265 to take the first steps in your recovery.
In addition to medically monitored detox, other treatments are available to help support those suffering from marijuana addiction. Based on each person’s individual treatment plan, residential drug rehab may offer additional support to help maintain sobriety.
Getting Help for Marijuana Use Disorders
If you’re experiencing trouble stopping using marijuana, know that you’re not alone. Approximately 3 in 10 people who use marijuana develop a marijuana use disorder. Marijuana use disorders can have a serious impact on your health, relationships, and work life. People suffering from an addiction often have trouble continuing daily routines, such as attending work or school.
If you spend a lot of time using marijuana, craving marijuana or failing to quit marijuana use, you might be struggling with a marijuana use disorder. Other signs of a marijuana use disorder include:
- Needing to use more and more in order to achieve a high
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop
- Experiencing social or relationship problems
Seeking treatment takes courage. At Summit Detox, we provide supportive assistance to guide you through the process each step of the way. We strive to make you feel comfortable, safe, and at home throughout the entire recovery process. After contacting us for treatment, an admissions coordinator will be assigned to you. They will help to verify your insurance coverage and help explain the costs of treatment.
A Brighter, Healthier Future
When seeking help for marijuana abuse, then you or your friends and family may feel anxious or scared. However, getting help can bring you a brighter, healthier future. Check out this testimonial from Bradon W, who is grateful for the steps he’s taken to achieve recovery:
“You guys were the greatest. Everybody was so nice and professional that they made me feel more comfortable. My time there was tough, but I left feeling like a new person. I’m now in treatment and for the first time in my life feel like I’m going to be okay. I can’t thank you enough.”
If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana addiction, contact Summit Detox today. We offer both detox and residential rehab services to provide an elevated level of comfort for our patients. Our highly experienced and compassionate medical staff is here to help guide you each and every step of the way. Call us at (888)-995-5265 to get help now.
