We all are familiar with the medical benefits of cannabis. It can be used for various medical conditions such as cancer, arthritis, Parkinson’s, Crohn’s, HIV?AIDS, PTSD, epilepsy, and many more. If you suffer from any of these conditions, you can easily buy medical cannabis for your condition if you have a medical cannabis card in Rochester. Cannabis is known to help people manage symptoms associated with these conditions that include stress, anxiety, pain, inflammation, insomnia, loss of appetite, etc. But, is it possible for you to overdose on cannabis?

For many, this is still a controversial question. While some believe that cannabis can be as dangerous as the other opioids, others believe that it has no side effects and is harmless. But the truth is that people can never really overdose on cannabis in the same way they can overdose on opioids. If you go through the history of cannabis, there is not even a single report of a death resulting solely because of cannabis overdose. 

But that does not imply that you can not overdo it. There are some chances that you can overdo cannabis, especially if you are a beginner. And overdoing it can lead you to experience some ad reaction of cannabis (or the side-effects). 

But, how to know what amount is too much?

There can not be a straightforward answer to this question, as there are many factors that play a role in this. Everybody is different, so some people can tolerate cannabis in a better way than others. One more factor is that every cannabis product varies in its potency, hence the effects also vary. 

It also depends upon your method of consumption. For example, most people accidentally consume more cannabis when they are eating cannabis edibles. The biggest reason behind this is that edibles take more time to kick in. And due to this, many people fail to take care of their dosage and take more than more than one dosage at once as they mistakenly believe that their edibles are weak. Edibles can take anywhere in between 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in. 

Also, I have seen many people mixing alcohol with cannabis. This can also result in an unpleasant overdose of cannabis.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of the many compounds found in cannabis. THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects, or the “high” you feel after consuming cannabis. If a cannabis product contains high levels of THC, it can also result in an unpleasant reaction in some people. This happens especially with beginners or people who do not consume cannabis often. 

The side-effects of cannabis overdose

There are a few unpleasant side-effects of cannabis that you may have experienced if you overdo cannabis. These are – 

• A state of confusion
• Dry mouth (or cottonmouth)
• Lack of concentration
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Dizziness
• Slower reaction time
• Dry eyes
• Headaches
• Anxiety 
• Increased heart rate
• Some changes in mood

In very rare cases, this overdose can also lead to – 

• Paranoia 
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hallucinations

But don’t worry, these side effects will not last long. In worst cases, these side effects can last up to 24 hours, depending upon the levels of THC in your cannabis products. 

How can you handle it?

There are a few things that you can do to sober up or handle this situation. So, let’s get into it.

Try to relax and do not panic

First-thing-first, you need to keep in mind that you are fine, and what you are feeling will dissipate within minutes to hours. So, if you are feeling anxious, try to tell yourself that you are OK, and remind yourself that no one has ever died of cannabis overdose. Keep telling yourself that these are temporary feelings and will fade away soon. You might not feel good right now, but eventually, it will pass.

Drink water

We all are familiar with the benefits of water, but in such situations, water becomes even more important. You have to keep yourself hydrated. You can also drink a non-caffeinated cold beverage like juice. Keeping yourself hydrated will help you in fighting with dry mouth. It will also allow you to focus on simple things such as sipping and swallowing. And do not make the mistake of drinking any alcoholic beverage. Stay away from alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can make your condition worse. Also, alcohol can increase THC blood concentration. So, it is best for you to stay away from it.

Eat snacks

Eating a little snack can help a lot of people feeling grounded. So, while you feel nauseated, try to eat some snacks. I know it may feel weird to you to eat anything when you have dry mouth, but it does help many people a lot.

Try to sleep

Sometimes, it is best for you to simply find a calm and quiet place, and rest while taking a deep breath. Keep one thing in mind that whatever you are feeling right now will soon pass. Try to focus on your breath and close your eyes. Get into your bed and wait for the effects to pass. This can be a great way to pass your time until the discomfort you are experiencing goes out of your system.

Go for a small walk

If you are finding it difficult to turn your brain off, try going out for a walk. The change in scenery and some fresh air can help you a lot. And while there is a lockdown and you can not go out, try taking a walk in your garden or on your terrace. It will get your blood pumping and will help in invigorating you. But, if you are feeling too anxious and woozy, then it is better to stay in your room.

Take a shower or bath

While you are at your home, it is a piece of great advice to take a nice shower or bath to ease your condition. It will help you to relax while you are waiting for the unpleasant effects of cannabis to pass.

Try to distract yourself

Sometimes, the only thing you need is to distract yourself. Any activity that you find entertaining and fun can help you during this time. There are many things that you can do, such as –

• Watching a funny cartoon on your television
• Playing a video game
• Listening to your favorite music
• Talking to a close friend
• Trying painting or coloring