Experiencing uncontrollable shaking after consuming a cannabis edible can be an alarming side effect of overconsumption. This reaction, often called “weed shakes,” signals an intense reaction to a higher-than-expected dose of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While frightening, it is typically a temporary, non-life-threatening response to the unique way the body processes ingested cannabis. Understanding the science and the typical timeline helps manage the situation until the effects subside.
Why Edibles Cause Tremors and Shaking
The physical shaking results from the central nervous system being overstimulated by high levels of THC. When cannabis is eaten, the liver converts delta-9-THC into a more potent metabolite called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is stronger and crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than the original THC, leading to a more intense and prolonged psychoactive experience.
This intense stimulation triggers an overdrive of the sympathetic nervous system, known as the “fight or flight” response. The resulting reaction includes a rapid heart rate, anxiety, and the involuntary muscle movements that manifest as physical shaking.
Edibles are prone to causing this reaction because of their delayed onset of effects. It can take 30 minutes to two hours for the effects to begin, leading some consumers to mistakenly take a second dose before the first one has fully kicked in. This results in a much higher total dose of the potent 11-hydroxy-THC metabolite, significantly increasing the likelihood of an overwhelming reaction.
Timeline: How Long Symptoms Typically Last
The duration of the uncontrollable shaking depends on individual factors like metabolism, tolerance, and dosage consumed. The most intense shaking may resolve relatively quickly, often within an hour or two of the peak effects. However, because the effects of edibles are significantly prolonged compared to inhaled cannabis, the overall experience lasts much longer.
While inhaled cannabis effects last between one and four hours, the effects from edibles can last anywhere from four to ten hours. The peak of the high, where symptoms are most pronounced, occurs between two and four hours after ingestion. Even after the severe shaking subsides, residual effects and general intoxication can persist for many hours.
The body’s process of metabolizing the 11-hydroxy-THC dictates the timeline. While acute tremors will likely pass sooner, it is possible to feel residual physical unease or mild internal shaking for up to 12 hours, especially with a very high dose. The body requires time to process the large amount of the potent metabolite.
Immediate Steps for Managing the Reaction
Managing an intense reaction requires staying calm and remembering the feeling is temporary. Find a quiet, safe, and comfortable place to sit or lie down without distractions. Remind yourself that the physical discomfort is a side effect of the substance.
Focusing on slow, deep breathing helps counteract the sympathetic nervous system overdrive. This can help regulate your heart rate and ease anxiety. Distracting yourself with simple, familiar activities, like listening to music or watching a calming television show, can also help.
Hydration is important; sip water or a drink with electrolytes to help your body process the THC. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that smelling or lightly chewing on black peppercorns may help lessen anxiety. If available, taking cannabidiol (CBD) may also help mitigate the psychoactive effects of THC, as it interacts differently with the brain’s receptors.
Warning Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While the uncontrollable shaking is usually not medically dangerous, specific warning signs require immediate professional medical attention. Seek emergency medical help if the person experiences severe and persistent vomiting. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or an irregular heart rhythm should also prompt an immediate call to emergency services.
Loss of consciousness or a seizure are signs of a severe reaction requiring immediate medical intervention. If the individual is experiencing severe, uncontrollable paranoia, hallucinations, or psychosis that poses a danger to themselves or others, emergency help is necessary. For less severe but concerning symptoms, contacting a Poison Control hotline can provide expert guidance on next steps.