Acute marijuana intoxication is a temporary condition that happens when a person consumes more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than their body can handle at one time. THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that causes the “high.” This overdose leads to a range of unpleasant psychological and physical effects that go beyond simply feeling “too high.” It can happen to anyone, from a new user to someone who uses cannabis regularly.
Symptoms of Acute Intoxication
The signs of acute marijuana intoxication can be divided into psychological and physical reactions. The intensity of these symptoms often depends on the dose of THC consumed and can vary significantly from one person to another.
Psychological symptoms are often the most distressing part of the experience. A person may feel intense anxiety, paranoia, or have a full-blown panic attack. Confusion and disorganized thinking are common, making it difficult to follow a conversation or focus on a task. A person’s perception of time can become distorted, with minutes feeling like hours. In more severe cases, hallucinations or delusions can occur, which may indicate a temporary state of psychosis.
The physical symptoms of consuming too much THC can be equally uncomfortable. One of the most common physical effects is an increased heart rate, which can feel alarming and contribute to feelings of anxiety. Dizziness, coordination problems, and tremors or shaking are also frequently reported. Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting, especially with high doses. Bloodshot eyes and a dry mouth are also typical physical signs of marijuana use that can be more pronounced during an episode of acute intoxication.
Factors Influencing Severity and Duration
Several factors determine how intense an episode of acute marijuana intoxication will be and how long it will last. The potency of the cannabis product is a major contributor. Products with high concentrations of THC, such as certain strains of flower, oils, and concentrates, increase the likelihood of consuming too much accidentally. The form in which cannabis is consumed also plays a significant part.
When marijuana is inhaled through smoking or vaping, THC enters the bloodstream rapidly through the lungs. The effects usually begin within minutes, peak within about 30 minutes, and typically subside within a few hours. This quick onset allows a person to better gauge the effects and stop before they become overwhelming.
In contrast, when cannabis is ingested in the form of edibles like baked goods or candies, the onset of effects is much slower. THC must first pass through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver before it enters the bloodstream. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, and the effects can continue to intensify for up to four hours and last for several hours. This delay makes it easy to consume a much larger dose than intended, leading to more severe intoxication. An individual’s unique metabolism and tolerance level also influence their reaction.
Managing the Experience
If you or someone else is experiencing acute marijuana intoxication, the primary goal is to remain calm and create a safe, reassuring environment. It is important to remember the intense feelings are temporary and will pass with time. Finding a quiet and familiar place with low stimulation, such as a room with dim lighting and minimal noise, can help reduce anxiety and paranoia. Lying down and focusing on slow, steady breathing can also help manage feelings of panic.
Engaging in simple, comforting activities can provide a helpful distraction. Listening to calming music, watching a familiar and lighthearted movie, or talking with a trusted and sober friend can help ground the individual and shift their focus away from the negative feelings. It is important to stay hydrated by sipping water. Avoid consuming other substances, particularly alcohol, as this can worsen the symptoms and prolong the experience.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of acute marijuana intoxication can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. It is important to know the signs that indicate a more serious reaction.
If a person experiences severe chest pain or has difficulty breathing, it is time to call for emergency medical help, as these could be signs of a serious cardiovascular event. Uncontrollable paranoia, extreme agitation, or psychotic symptoms that do not lessen with calming techniques are also reasons to seek professional medical care. Although rare, seizures are a serious side effect that requires an emergency response. If the person becomes unresponsive or is difficult to wake, medical intervention is necessary.
In a hospital setting, treatment for acute marijuana intoxication is primarily supportive. Medical staff will monitor the individual’s heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. They may provide intravenous (IV) fluids for hydration or administer sedatives like benzodiazepines if the person is extremely agitated or panicked, ensuring their safety while the effects wear off.