Can You Od On Weed? Know Life Threatening Risks

Cannabis, a flowering plant genus in the Cannabaceae family, is the source of weed. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the principal psychoactive component of cannabis. However, the plant also contains other cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), which do not generate euphoric effects but have been linked to possible medical advantages.

Weed, or marijuana, addiction—formally known as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)—is an increasing concern in the United States, especially as the legal landscape around marijuana changes. 

Marijuana is the most popular illicit substance in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), over 49.6 million people in the United States, or roughly 18% of the population aged 12 and up, reported consuming marijuana in 2022.

In this post, we’ll look at the risk factors, the science underlying marijuana usage, and the frequency of medical problems linked with marijuana overdose and possible treatment offered by drug rehab center.

What Is Weed Overdose?

A weed overdose, also known as “cannabis overdose” or “greening out,” occurs when a person takes an excessive amount of cannabis, resulting in severe and unpleasant symptoms. 

Unlike some narcotics, a marijuana overdose is rarely fatal, and there have been no reported occurrences of fatal cannabis overdoses. However, it can still be a stressful process with a variety of negative physical and psychological side effects.

Symptoms Of Weed Overdose?

The symptoms of a cannabis overdose vary depending on the amount consumed, the technique used, the individual’s tolerance level, and their overall health. Common symptoms include:

• Extreme worry or Panic Attacks: A cannabis overdose can cause intense fear, worry, and panic. The individual may feel overwhelmed or paranoid, believing they are in danger.
• Hallucinations: In some situations, particularly with high THC concentrations, people may suffer visual or auditory hallucinations.
• Rapid Heart Rate (Tachycardia): Cannabis can produce an increase in heart rate, which the user may find unsettling, particularly if they are already nervous.
• Nausea and vomiting: Excessive intake of cannabis, particularly edibles, can result in severe nausea and vomiting.
• Dizziness and vertigo: The person may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or as if the room is spinning.
• Disorientation and Confusion: A person may feel disoriented or bewildered, unable to comprehend what is happening around them.
• Excessive Drowsiness or Lethargy: Cannabis overdose can cause significant drowsiness or a strong sense of lethargy, making it difficult to stay awake.
• Affected Motor Skills: Coordination and motor skills can be severely affected, making it difficult to walk or do basic tasks.
• Dry mouth and Red Eyes: These are frequent adverse effects of cannabis, although they can be more severe with an overdose.

Main Reasons Behind Weed Overdose

A weed overdose is mainly caused by consuming too much cannabis, especially in forms with high THC concentrations. The most common causes are:

• Cannabis edibles are a common source of overdose because their effects take longer to kick in (up to 2 hours), causing people to eat more while waiting for the original dose to take effect. Edibles can also have a considerably more powerful and long-lasting effect than smoking or vaping.
• Concentrates: Cannabis concentrates, such as oils, waxes, or dabs, are high in THC. Even a small amount can produce a high dose, raising the risk of overdose.
• Individuals who are new to cannabis or have not used it in a long time may have a decreased tolerance, making them more prone to overdose even with little amounts.
• Mixing with Other Substances: Combining cannabis with alcohol or other substances might raise the risk of overdose or exacerbate the negative effects.

Help From Drug Rehab Centre

Rehab for marijuana toxicity or dependence usually consists of a variety of therapy focused at addressing the psychological, behavioral, and social elements of addiction. Inpatient Rehab Center offers following therapies and programs for weed overdose:

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapies are crucial to marijuana dependence treatment. These therapies assist people understand and improve their marijuana-related habits. Here are some common approaches:

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT assists individuals in recognizing and changing problematic thought patterns and behaviors associated with cannabis usage. It also teaches how to cope with stressors and stress without using marijuana.
• Contingency Management: This strategy encourages marijuana abstinence via the use of a reward and incentive system. Patients receive concrete rewards, such as vouchers or prizes, for submitting drug-free urine samples or meeting other treatment objectives.
• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET): MET focuses on assisting people in finding internal motivation to improve their behavior. It is frequently used in conjunction with other therapies to promote participation in the treatment process.

Counseling and Support Groups

Rehab Center provides a supportive setting in which individuals can discuss their marijuana use experiences and investigate the underlying causes of their reliance. Counseling can take various forms, including:

• Individual counseling involves one-on-one sessions with a therapist to address personal difficulties associated to marijuana use, such as stress, trauma, or co-occurring mental health illnesses such as anxiety or depression.
• Group counseling provides support from others who are going through comparable difficulties. This atmosphere can boost motivation, alleviate feelings of isolation, and develop a sense of community.
• Family therapy can help address any family factors that may contribute to or be influenced by marijuana usage. It also aids in the development of a support network for the recovering individual.

Medical Supervision and Support

While marijuana withdrawal is typically less severe than withdrawal from narcotics such as alcohol or opioids, it can nevertheless be painful and may necessitate medical care, particularly in cases of excessive usage. Common withdrawal symptoms are:

• Irritation and Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety or Depression
• Decreased appetite
• Restlessness

Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab Programs

The appropriate level of care is determined by the severity of the marijuana use disorder. Options include:

• Outpatient Programs: Outpatient treatment allows patients to stay at home while attending therapy sessions many times each week. It is appropriate for those with mild to moderate dependence who live in a supportive home environment.
• Inpatient or Residential Programs: Inpatient rehabilitation entails staying in a treatment facility for a certain amount of time, usually 30 to 90 days. This setting offers a structured environment with 24-hour care, making it perfect for those with severe addiction or who need to get away from their current surroundings to focus on recovery.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

Recovery from marijuana addiction is a continuous process that demands work even after completing a formal treatment program. Aftercare plans can include:

• Regular Therapy Sessions: Continued individual or group therapy to strengthen skills developed in recovery and address any new issues.
• Sober Living Homes: These are group homes that offer a supportive, drug-free environment for people moving from rehab to normal life.
• Relapse Prevention Planning entails devising ways to deal with triggers and prevent relapse, such as recognizing early warning signals, avoiding high-risk circumstances, and having a strong support network.
• Support Groups: Continued participation in support groups, such as Marijuana Anonymous, to stay connected with others in recovery and motivated.

Ending Note

Rehabilitation for marijuana toxicity and dependence is a multifaceted approach that addresses the psychological, behavioral, and social variables that contribute to Cannabis Use Disorder. Individuals can overcome marijuana dependence by combining therapy, counseling, medical assistance, and aftercare to live healthier, more satisfying lives. 

If you or someone you know is battling with marijuana, call us to take a big step towards recovery.