Cannabis Dosage Guide

## Can You Overdose on Cannabis? You cannot fatally overdose on cannabis through THC toxicity alone. However, cannabis overconsumption is extremely common, deeply unpleasant, and is the most frequent reason for cannabis-related emergency department visits. ## Recognizing Overconsumption ("Greening Out") - **Severe anxiety and panic**: the most common symptom, sometimes escalating to full panic attacks - **Paranoia**: ranging from vague unease to acute persecutory thinking - **Tachycardia**: heart rate exceeding 120 bpm, which feeds the anxiety cycle - **Nausea and vomiting**: especially when combined with alcohol - **Dizziness, disorientation, pallor, and sweating** - **Depersonalization**: feeling detached from your body, frightening for the unfamiliar - **Rare at very high doses**: transient psychotic symptoms ## What To Do - Remind yourself this is temporary and not dangerous. Write it down: "I took too much cannabis. This will pass" - Move to a calm, comfortable environment. Reduce stimulation - Breathe slowly: in for 4 counts, hold for 4, out for 6 - Chew or sniff black peppercorns -- beta-caryophyllene may reduce cannabis anxiety - Take CBD if available to dampen THC intensity - Drink cold water; place a cold cloth on wrists or neck - Do not fight the experience. Acceptance shortens acute distress **For helpers:** Stay calm -- your composure is contagious. Do not leave a distressed person alone. Engage them in simple, grounding conversation. ## When to Call 911 - Chest pain that does not resolve - Seizures - Severe persistent vomiting with inability to keep fluids down - Loss of consciousness - Symptoms of psychosis or suicidal ideation - Suspected product contamination with other substances Good Samaritan laws protect you in most jurisdictions. Never hesitate to call for help because of legal concerns.