Adult Use Risks: Is It Possible to Overdose or Die from Cannabis?

More and more people around the world are using cannabis for medicinal purposes to treat conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, chronic pain, and others. The legalization of adult use is also advancing in some countries, albeit more slowly. With the possibility of adult use, some doubts and fears arise.

Can cannabis cause overdose?

A common question is whether increased cannabis consumption can lead to death. The answer is that, technically, it is impossible to have a fatal overdose from marijuana. An overdose occurs when the body receives a substance in amounts it cannot process. Substances like alcohol, opioids, and methamphetamines often cause overdoses, which can be fatal without quick medical intervention.

In the case of opioids, for example, high doses can lead to respiratory system collapse. In 2019, about 71 million people died from drug overdoses in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), none from cannabis. Health complications related to cannabis consumption tend to be slower and cumulative, unlike a typical drug overdose.

However, consuming marijuana mixed with tobacco increases the risk of respiratory diseases. Additionally, smoking any substance involves inhalants that can harm long-term health.

Can cannabis kill?

Although cannabis consumption does not cause overdose, there are long-term risks, especially if smoked regularly. One of the main risks is related to damage to the protective system.

Studies indicate that contemporary cannabis smoking may increase the risk of lung cancer. According to the European Respiratory Journal, the risk increases by 8% for each year of continuous cannabis use.

Lung cancer is responsible for 25% of cancer deaths in the U.S., with a five-year survival rate of only 18.6%. Therefore, smoking cannabis may increase the risk of premature mortality.

The cancer-causing impacts of smoking can be avoided by using cannabis edibles. However, consuming edibles can lead to severe intoxications, causing panic attacks and an increase in hospitalizations.

In addition to health problems, cannabis consumption can slow reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents. People operating machinery or driving vehicles under the influence of the substance are more likely to suffer fatal accidents.
 

Is cannabis addictive?

Yes, cannabis can cause dependence. Addiction is not limited to just hard drugs. It occurs when consumption affects other aspects of life, such as relationships, work, and finances.

Signs of dependence may include prioritizing cannabis consumption over basic needs, such as food and bills, or putting less effort into social and professional life.

Withdrawal symptoms include drowsiness, irritability, and mental confusion, especially when consumption is combined with tobacco.

Although cannabis consumption is generally considered safer than opioids and other drugs, it is important to be aware of the risks of dependence and health complications. Using cannabis responsibly, avoiding operating vehicles under the influence, and considering alternative consumption methods to smoking can help minimize harm.

Content originally published on El Planteo