Acute cannabis hyper-intoxication, commonly called “greening out,” is an unpleasant physical and psychological reaction resulting from consuming too much cannabis. This experience is essentially an overdose reaction to the psychoactive compound, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The feeling is temporary but can be intensely distressing, leading many people to seek clarity on the expected duration of these episodes.
Understanding Acute Cannabis Intoxication
Greening out occurs when a person overwhelms their body’s endocannabinoid system with an excessive amount of THC. This system, which regulates various bodily functions, becomes overstimulated, leading to negative effects.
Common physical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and a rapid heart rate (tachycardia). Psychologically, individuals often experience intense anxiety, panic attacks, and paranoia. Although a green-out is not life-threatening, the symptoms can be severe enough to require emergency medical attention.
Typical Duration and Timeline
The length of a green-out episode is highly dependent on the method of consumption, which dictates how quickly the THC enters the bloodstream and how it is processed by the body.
When cannabis is inhaled (smoked or vaped), the effects are felt rapidly because THC passes directly from the lungs into the bloodstream. Symptoms of hyper-intoxication typically peak within 10 to 30 minutes after consumption. The most acute effects usually subside within one to four hours, though a residual high may linger for up to six hours.
Ingestion of cannabis, such as through edibles, results in a much longer and more intense experience. The onset is delayed, as THC must first travel through the digestive system and be metabolized by the liver, which can take 30 minutes to two hours. During this process, THC is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that is more potent and readily crosses the blood-brain barrier.
The total duration of a green-out from edibles is significantly longer, often lasting six to 10 hours or more. The delayed onset is a common reason for overconsumption, as people mistakenly consume more because they do not feel the effects immediately.
Factors Influencing the Severity and Length
Several variables influence the intensity and length of a green-out episode. The concentration of THC in the product plays a major role, as modern cannabis strains and concentrates contain higher amounts of the compound than in the past. Individual tolerance is another factor, with occasional users experiencing more pronounced effects than chronic users.
The bodies of chronic users develop a metabolic adaptation to THC, which alters how they process the compounds. The user’s metabolism and body weight affect how quickly THC is processed by the liver and how it is stored in fatty tissues. Co-ingestion of other substances, particularly alcohol or prescription medications, can also exacerbate the effects due to drug interactions that interfere with the body’s ability to break down THC.
Immediate Steps for Relief and Safety
The management of a green-out is primarily supportive, focusing on reducing anxiety and waiting for the effects to pass. The first step is moving to a safe, quiet, and familiar environment to minimize sensory input that could trigger panic or paranoia. Hydration with non-alcoholic fluids is important, especially if the person has been vomiting.
A simple distraction technique, like listening to calming music or focusing on slow, deep breathing, can help manage acute anxiety. Some people find relief by smelling or chewing on black peppercorns or lemon zest. These items contain terpenes, such as beta-caryophyllene and D-limonene, which can mitigate the anxiety and paranoia associated with THC.
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms include severe chest pain, prolonged vomiting leading to dehydration, or signs of neurological impairment. While most green-out episodes resolve on their own, a medical professional can provide supportive care and rule out other complications.