Most states allow some form of medicinal marijuana and some have legalized recreational marijuana.
There has also been a more recent push to make recreational marijuana legal on a national level. With marijuana and cannabis products becoming more accessible, the dangers associated with marijuana are also on the rise. With drug treatment centers across the United States, we are unveiling the truth behind what consuming too much marijuana in one sitting can mean.
Can You Overdose on Marijuana?
Although it is likely not fatal like with other drug overdoses, a marijuana overdose is still possible. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines overdose as an “injury to the body (poisoning) that happens when a drug is taken in excessive amounts. An overdose can be fatal or nonfatal.”1 In most cases, a marijuana and THC overdose is more like a bad trip than a life-threatening situation. Because a marijuana overdose is less severe than other types of drugs overdoses, the amount of cannabis consumed in order to reach an overdose level is not clear.
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Marijuana Overdose Symptoms
Signs of drug overdose are usually severe such as trouble breathing, coma, or seizures that can lead to death without proper medical attention. In the case of a pot overdose, symptoms are less alarming.
Signs of a marijuana overdose may include:
- Racing heartrate
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
- Nausea
- Vomiting2
Although there is a low risk of death from a weed overdose directly, that doesn’t mean smoking pot isn’t dangerous. Everyone reacts to drugs differently. Someone with an underlying medical condition could be more sensitive to marijuana and an excessive amount consumed in a short period of time could cause them health complications. In other cases, someone could get injured from falling or crash while driving because they are high and under the influence of marijuana. If marijuana is consumed with other drugs or alcohol, it may also lead to a dangerous drug interaction with more serious effects.
While there is a push to legalize recreational marijuana, the long-term effects are widely still unknown. Although not in large numbers like with some other substances of abuse, some people may develop a marijuana addiction with regular use. There is also some research on marijuana that suggests that it may be a gateway drug.
Whether you find yourself abusing marijuana or another drug and are unable to stop, we may be able to help you before more problems arise. With several different levels of care and the use of various addiction treatment therapies, we help our patients find lasting relief from addiction.
To get help for yourself or a loved one as well as to learn more about us, call 888-280-4763.
