Is it Possible to Overdose on Marijuana?

Marijuana use and distribution has become a heated topic among residents of San Francisco and across the nation. With more states legalizing marijuana, proper education on the drug is required to keep individuals safe. Those who have become addicted to marijuana — also known as pot, weed or cannabis — may need the lifesaving support of rehab centers.

Improper use of marijuana can lead to long-term brain damage. Cannabis can be smoked or inhaled through vapor to experience a high. The drug can also be added to foods or teas, causing similar effects.

Marijuana over-activates certain brain receptors, which results mood changes, impaired body functions, difficulty thinking and impaired memory. Consumption of cannabis also attacks the mental and physical aspects of the body. Breathing complications, hallucinations and paranoia can also be symptoms of marijuana intake.

Regardless of past theories, marijuana can become extremely addictive to users — especially among youth. Cannabis can be abused in local San Francisco parks, schools or even bedrooms of young individuals. Those who become slaves to cannabis should seek therapeutic solutions through drug rehab centers.

Because of the drug’s addictiveness, questions are often asked regarding a marijuana overdose. Smoking or consuming large amounts of weed cannot kill the consumer on its own — at least there have not been any reported deaths from an overdose of marijuana.

The National Cancer Institute stated a marijuana overdose is unlikely because “cannabinoid receptors, unlike opioid receptors, are not located in the brainstem areas controlling respiration.” Opioids such as oxycodone and morphine target areas of the brain which control breathing. When abused, opioids can suspend one’s breathing, where marijuana influences other parts of one’s brain.

However, there is such a thing as too much marijuana in one’s system. When large amounts of cannabis are consumed, it can lead to complications like extreme paranoia, declining physical health and long-lasting mental disabilities.

“Increased tolerance can signal dependence on marijuana,” AddictionBlog.org reported. “When physical dependence is present, psychological dependence may also be indicated.” Additionally, when one can no longer feel the effects of consuming marijuana, it may be time to consider seeking help from rehab centers. Many drug rehabilitation programs exist in San Francisco and elsewhere, ready to help end gripping addictions.

Though there have been no reported deaths from an overdose of marijuana, the harmful effects of consuming cannabis should be common knowledge. Children and teens may abuse marijuana without proper education of its dangerous side effects. Addictions may seem taller than the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, but any addiction can be broken with proper assistance from rehab centers.

Jeffrey Herbert is a health writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Miramar Drug and Alcohol Reheb Centers. Follow on Twitter