One of the most common questions among medical marijuana patients and their loved ones is can you overdose on THC? Below, you’ll discover everything you need to know when consuming too much medical marijuana.
Is it Possible to Overdose on THC?
It is theoretically possible to consume enough THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis, to cause an overdose, but it is highly unlikely.
A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the THC necessary to overdose is around 1,500 pounds of marijuana consumed within about fifteen minutes. This is significantly more than any person could consume in such a short period of tim and is far beyond the levels of THC that are typically found in marijuana.
Additionally, the symptoms of a THC overdose are primarily psychological and do not pose significant physical risks. These symptoms include anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. Therefore, it is practically impossible to overdose on medical marijuana and THC.
Is it Possible to Reduce or Counteract the Effects of THC?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis that can counteract some of the effects of THC, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis.
CBD can counteract the anxiety and paranoia that high levels of THC can cause by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. GABA is responsible for regulating the activity of neurons and is known to have an inhibitory effect on neurotransmission, which can help to calm the nervous system.
Additionally, CBD can also interact with other receptors in the body, such as the CB1 receptors, which are responsible for the psychoactive effects of THC, and modulate their activity, which can reduce the overall psychoactive effects of THC.
It is important to note that while CBD and THC have different effects, they both have therapeutic potential and can enhance each other’s effects when used in a balanced ratio, commonly known as the entourage effect.
How to Counteract the Effects of THC Naturally
Consuming too much THC can produce effects that can scare beginners and seasoned medical marijuana patients. Although it’s practically impossible to overdose, most people want to avoid unwanted consequences.
There are a few natural ways that may help to decrease the intensity of the effects of THC:
1. Hydration: Drinking water can help to alleviate dry mouth and eyes, which are common side effects of THC.
2. Sleep: Getting enough can help reduce fatigue and disorientation, which are also common side effects of THC.
3. Food: Eating a balanced diet can help to reduce the intensity of the “munchies” and other side effects of THC.
4. Exercise: Light exercise or yoga can help to reduce anxiety and paranoia, which high levels of THC can cause.
5. CBD: As previously discussed, CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, can counteract some of the effects of THC by increasing the levels of GABA in the brain and modulating the activity of the CB1 receptors.
6. Time: The effects of THC will decrease over time as the body metabolizes the compound.
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