By definition, an overdose means that a person has taken a large enough amount of a drug for it to be considered toxic, and while overdoses are not always fatal, it’s dependent on the person, how much they consumed, and whether they were also using other drugs. Nevertheless, in terms of cannabis, an overdose is incredibly unlikely. However, symptoms that follow a considerable consumption can be unpleasant for the user. So, if reassuring yourself isn’t doing the trick, it’s best to take the time to learn about the risks of using too much weed, including signs to keep in mind and prevention strategies.
What are some recognizable symptoms of a marijuana overdose?
While a marijuana overdose is not fatal, it can still be distressing if multiple of the following symptoms come on all at once:
- Lethargy
- Decreased muscle strength
- Loss of coordination
- Hand unsteadiness
- Inability to concentrate
- Slowed reaction time
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
While those who have consumed too much weed are likely to feel many of the above symptoms, when combined, the physical reactions could cause a mild panic attack for some novice users. However, the best way to combat a marijuana overdose is by knowing your limits before consumption and if you happen to consume too much, remind yourself that the symptoms are temporary and will generally only last three to four hours.
Factors that can affect the strength and duration of your overdose symptoms:
- The dose.
- Method of consumption (edibles, pills, herbs, etc.).
- Weight, height, age, and gender. Each person’s body metabolizes the drug differently.
- Tolerance level.
What are the risk factors of a marijuana overdose?
It can be difficult to predict how your body will react to weed consumption, especially if you’re new to the drug and are experimenting with multiple strains and products at the same time. Keep in mind that while weed can be ingested in many different forms, it’s always best to keep to a classic method to build up your tolerance level over time. This means that you should buy weed online and smoke it in a pipe or bong, and once you’re comfortable then you can move on to trying concentrates and various types of edibles.
Considering concentrates and edibles are typically very potent, it’s essential that you give yourself additional time between consumption, as eating weed tends to delay the effects and often takes an hour or two before you will experience the full extent of its influence.
Things to consider to avoid a marijuana overdose?
Understanding how to take care of personal weed consumption is one factor, however, there are other things that you should be aware of to prevent potential overdoses:
- Keep your stash out of reach from children and pets.
- If you tend to get paranoid after consumption, you should consider researching the THC potency in your strain. There are many weed products that possess a more vigorous strength due to breeding and cultivation, so you may want to decrease your dose to align with your tolerance.
- When you buy weed online, the abundance of choices is overwhelming and you may purchase a product that isn’t suited for you. So, consider the mental effects that you have experienced after consumption and consult with a professional budtender to find exactly what you’re looking for.
- For some people, too much weed may have an effect on their mental health. Consider consulting with your physician if you experience ongoing, overdose symptoms each time you consume cannabis.
The truth is, most people lovingly enjoy cannabis in a variety of ways and never experience the above staggering effects that can happen after consumption. Nevertheless, it’s also important to be self-aware and know that unfavorable circumstances can happen. Be prepared, but enjoy your experiences and consume the amount and way that makes you feel the most comfortable.
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