Symptoms of a Cannabis Overdose
Cannabis overdose means taking more THC than the body can handle. The result is a set of physical and mental symptoms. No human death from cannabis alone has been confirmed. Symptoms start within minutes after smoking or 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating edibles.
Common Symptoms
- Anxiety and panic
- Paranoia
- Fast heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Poor coordination
- Shaking
- Chills
- Headache
Serious Symptoms
High doses can cause psychosis, hallucinations, and chest pain. Some people have seizures. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome causes repeated vomiting and belly pain. This syndrome links to long-term use.
Edibles and Delayed Onset
Edibles take 30 to 120 minutes to work. People eat more because the first dose feels weak. Then THC levels spike. Poison centers report many calls from edible overdoses. Children face high risk. A child who eats a THC edible can have trouble breathing and needs emergency care.
Signs of Cannabis Toxicity: Symptoms and When to Call 911
CBD Overdose
CBD has no known lethal dose. Side effects at high doses include nausea, diarrhea, drowsiness, and liver enzyme changes. The FDA approved one CBD drug for seizures. That drug shows liver risk at high doses.
Green Out Effects: Symptoms, Timeline, and Relief
When to Call 911
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Seizure
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe confusion
- Vomiting that will not stop
Call 911 for these signs. For a child, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
What To Do
Stop using cannabis. Move to a calm place. Drink water. Do not drive. Most cases pass in a few hours. A hospital can give fluids and medicine for anxiety. No antidote exists for THC.