Greening out describes a common, yet often distressing, experience some individuals have after consuming cannabis. This article explores the nature of greening out and addresses concerns about its potential for serious harm or death.
Understanding Greening Out
Greening out refers to an acute, negative reaction when an individual consumes more cannabis, specifically tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), than their body can comfortably process. Symptoms vary among individuals but commonly include intense nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Psychological distress such as heightened anxiety, paranoia, disorientation, panic attacks, or temporary fainting may also occur.
The physiological basis for greening out involves the overstimulation of the endocannabinoid system, a complex cell-signaling system in the body that plays a role in regulating various functions, including mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory. THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB1 receptors in the brain. When these receptors are overwhelmed by excessive THC, it can disrupt normal physiological processes, leading to the unpleasant symptoms observed. Factors contributing to greening out often include consuming high-potency cannabis products, particularly concentrates or edibles, which have a delayed onset of effects and can lead to accidental overconsumption. Individual sensitivity and tolerance levels also play a significant role.
Direct Fatal Risks of Greening Out
Greening out from cannabis use alone does not typically result in direct fatality. Unlike opioids or high doses of alcohol, which can depress the central nervous system to the point of respiratory failure, cannabis does not affect the brainstem in the same way. The brainstem contains vital centers that control breathing and heart rate. Research indicates that cannabinoid receptors, specifically CB1 receptors, are not highly concentrated in these brainstem areas.
Consuming cannabis, even in very large quantities, is not known to directly shut down essential bodily functions like respiration. While the experience can be profoundly unpleasant, it is not life-threatening from a direct physiological standpoint when cannabis is the only substance involved.
Indirect Dangers and Complications
While direct fatality from greening out is rare, indirect dangers and complications can arise. One risk is aspiration, which can occur if an individual vomits while unconscious or heavily sedated. Vomit entering the lungs can lead to aspiration pneumonia, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
The disorientation and dizziness associated with greening out can also increase the risk of falls or other accidents, especially if the person is in an unsafe environment or tries to move around while severely impaired.
Greening out can also exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions. For instance, individuals with anxiety disorders may experience heightened panic attacks, and those with certain heart conditions might experience an increased heart rate, which, while usually not life-threatening on its own, can be distressing. A major concern arises when cannabis is combined with other substances, known as polysubstance use. Mixing cannabis with central nervous system depressants like alcohol, opioids, or sedatives significantly magnifies risks. These combinations can lead to dangerous respiratory depression, profound sedation, or other life-threatening interactions that would not occur with cannabis alone.
Responding to Greening Out
If someone is greening out, ensure their safety and provide reassurance. Remain calm and help the person move to a quiet, safe, and comfortable environment where they can relax. Offering sips of water or a sugary drink can help, and encouraging them to rest or lie down is beneficial. Avoid giving them more cannabis or any other substances.
Monitoring the individual’s condition is important, and reassurance that the unpleasant feelings will pass can help reduce anxiety.
Medical attention becomes necessary in some situations. Contact emergency services, such as calling 911, if the person loses consciousness and cannot be roused, experiences severe difficulty breathing, has chest pain, or has a seizure. Immediate medical help is also warranted if there is concern about polysubstance use, as drug interactions could lead to more severe, life-threatening complications.