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Taking both these drugs should not be harmful. The effects of both drugs are likely to be reduced.

We strongly recommend you avoid taking these drugs together, reactions are highly unpredictable and can be fatal. You will likely come to some degree of harm even if you take strong precautions.

Taking both of these drugs together is not usually any more harmful than taking them individually. The drugs are not known to interact with each other, each positively or negatively.

Be careful when mixing amphetamines and GHB. Stimulants increase respiration rate allowing a higher dose of sedatives. If the stimulant wears off first then the opiate may overcome the patient and cause respiratory arrest.

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between allergy medicines and LSD. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between ibuprofen and 2C-B. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.

Taking both these drugs together is likely to cause an effect stronger than taking them individually. If used with care they are unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction.

_Users report that the two herbs go well with each other, however, moderation is important when combining them. Keeping both doses low helps ensuring that you derive the highest possible positive effects without crossing the line to negative side-effects. You should go particularly light on cannabis dosage. Although rarely, some users report mild effects, such as feeling nauseous, sick and uncomfortable. Stronger side effects include anxiety and dizziness._

Taking both these drugs together may produce unpleasant effects such as physical discomfort or overstimulation. High doses put you at risk. If you mix, start low and go slow

Amphetamines and DMT is not usually a harmful combination but stimulants generally increase anxiety levels and the risk of thought loops which can lead to negative experiences.

Tricyclics (Amitriptyline, Anafranil, Asendin, Aventyl, Elavil, Endep, Norfranil, Norpramin, Pamelor, Sinequan, Surmontil, Tipramine, Tofranil, and Vivactil) is consistently reported as being very bad in combination with LSD. People attempting this combination are unable to communicate with others, they go into a fugue state where they wander away from home and don't know how they got there, and they are generally in a terrible state psychologically. Life-threatening seizures and at least one death have been reported to be triggered by the combination of LSD and tricyclics. If you are prescribed tricyclics for mental health problems, it is not a good idea to try LSD outside of a supervised medical setting, as it might worsen the symptoms.

Using these drugs together can cause an effect stronger than desired though they aren't likely to cause a serious adverse reaction if used carefully. Additional research should always be done before mixing drugs.

Cannabis and mushrooms is not usually a harmful combination, but cannabis has an unexpectedly strong and somewhat unpredictable synergy with psychedelics so beware when mixing these drugs.

The combination is unlikely to cause any adverse or undesirable reactions beyond those that might ordinarily be expected from taking these drugs individually. Users have reported diminished experiences thus care should be taken with dosage.

This combination carries a low risk. Ibuprofen and cannabis are unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully and within the recommended dose.

There is a low risk when drinking a moderate amount of alcohol when using the recommended dose of aspirin.

Avoid alcohol if you are taking aspirin for a headache. Alcohol is likely to make a headache worse as it causes dehydration.

_Reactions and side effects are rare, but using these drugs together can cause an effect stronger than taking them individually, and they aren't likely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully. Kratom’s effects are due primarily to its interaction with mu-receptors in the brain, while SSRIs produce their effects by interacting with the serotonin receptors. It is hypothesized that, since both act on receptors that can sometimes be involved with each other in certain processes, an interaction may or may not occur. Interactions include risks such as_ [_serotonin syndrome_](https://www.mdedge.com/ccjm/article/120386/neurology/serotonin-syndrome-preventing-recognizing-and-treating-it)_. Additional research should always be done before mixing drugs._

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between ibuprofen and ketamine. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.

Caffeine and GHB have low risk and decreased synergy. Caffeine will mildly hide the depressant effects of GHB leading to a slightly increased risk of overdose.

These combinations are not usually physically harmful, but may produce undesirable effects, such as physical discomfort or overstimulation. Extreme use may cause physical health issues. Be careful when mixing these drugs.

Effects will compound with each other, however, the effects of DMT will probably overpower that of 2C-B since it is a much more powerful hallucinogen.

Both drugs potentiate the sedation and impairment of coordinate caused by the other. High doses can lead to unexpected loss of consciousness

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between ibuprofen and modafinil. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between aspirin and LSD. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between contraceptive pills and cannabis and generally this combination carries a low risk. However, cannabis will often intensify and alter your mood. If your contraception is causing significant changes in your mood, it is advisable to avoid cannabis as it may intensify mood swings.

Avoid cannabis if you are taking allergy medicines. Benadryl, Piriton and Piriteze are known to have adverse effects when combined with cannabis.

Cannabis intensifies the drowsiness caused by the antihistamines in allergy medicines. Dizziness, confusion and difficulty concentrating may also occur as well as a reduction in judgements and motor coordination.

DMT and mushrooms are both psychedelics and will thus have additive effects when taken together. Be careful as the doses will quickly become overwhelming.

GHB and LSD is not usually a harmful combination, but it will tend to decrease the effects of both drugs.

Be careful when taking amphetamines (e.g. Adderall) and cocaine together. Both are stimulants, which increases the strain on your heart and places you at higher risk of overdosing. Cocaine will also mildly block the effects of the amphetamines4,21.

This combination carries a low risk. Paracetamol and cannabis are unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully and within the recommended dose.

There is a low risk when drinking a moderate amount of alcohol when using the recommended dose of paracetamol.

Avoid alcohol if you are taking paracetamol for a headache. Alcohol is likely to make a headache worse as it causes dehydration.

DMT and opioids is an unsafe combination. Low doses seem to counter the effects of hallucinogens, whereas higher doses potentiate them. Be careful with tramadol as it is known to lower the seizure threshold and psychedelics can sometimes cause seizures. Read more [here](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3006089).

Be careful when taking allergy meds and cocaine together. There is some evidence that certain allergy medications combined with cocaine can increase reinforcement (i.e. how strongly you feel the need to take more of the drug). Both have similar effects which puts at increased risk of overstimulation. If you mix, start low and go slow53-56.

Aspirin and MDMA taken together may cause a greater increase in body temperature and sweating than is normal. This poses the greatest risk when dancing in crowded conditions. Take a break periodically to cool down.

These combinations are considered extremely harmful and should always be avoided. Reactions to combining these drugs are highly unpredictable and can potentially cause death.

Tramadol lowers the seizure threshold and thus should not be combined with any psychedelics, MAOIs, amphetamines and substituted amphetamines, or other opioids.

Be careful when taking mushrooms and cocaine together. You may experience anxiety. Some of their physiological effects oppose each other which puts strain on your body and makes it easier for you to overdose, especially during the comedown. If you mix, start low and go slow41,42.

Cannabis and DMT is not usually a harmful combination, but cannabis has an unexpectedly strong and somewhat unpredictable synergy with psychedelics so beware when mixing these drugs.

Taking the combined oral contraceptive pill and cocaine together is not usually any more harmful than taking them individually. The drugs are not known to interact with each other, each positively or negatively46,47.

Alcohol and GHB is an unsafe combination. Even in very low doses this rapidly leads to memory loss, severe ataxia and unconsciousness. There is a high risk of vomit aspiration while unconscious.

Avoid benzos if you are taking allergy medicines. benzos and allergy medicines such as Benadryl, Piriton and Clarityn are depressants and both slow down your central nervous system. This can produce heightened side effects such as drowsiness, sedation and poor concentration. In extreme cases, loss of consciousness and may occur.

Using these drugs together can cause an effect stronger than taking them individually, and they aren't likely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully. Additional research should always be done before mixing drugs.

Effects will be stronger than taking either drug alone, however, it’s unlikely that there will be any adverse health reactions to this combination.

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between ibuprofen and benzos. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully and within the recommended dose.

Be careful when taking paracetamol and cocaine. Paracetamol may increase the harmful effects of cocaine on the liver4.

_Kratom leaves produce complex opioid-like analgesic effects, which could be potentiated with the use of ibuprofen._

Stimulants should not be combined with kratom, as they further increase the level of stimulation provided by the kratom. This results in the development of potentially severe side effects: anxiety, heart palpitations, excessive sweating, and general agitation. More life-threatening side effects that may result include: increased blood pressure. The lowering of the seizure threshold may also be observed.

[**Tramadol**](https://www.drugs.com/tramadol.html) can result in seizures when taken with LSD, as Tromadol lowers the seizure threshold.

These two drugs potentiate each other strongly and unpredictably which might lead to memory loss, blackout and respiratory depression.

Be careful when taking GHB with cocaine. Stimulants increase respiration rate allowing a higher dose of sedatives. If the stimulant wears off first then the opiate may overcome the patient and cause respiratory arrest. Likewise the G can wear off and leave a dangerous concentration of cocaine behind30,31.

Taking LSD and cocaine together is likely to cause overstimulation and anxiety. This combination will put strain on your heart and circulatory system and increase your risk of seizure. High doses will put you at risk. If you mix, start low and go slow37.

Cannabis and LSD is not usually a harmful combination, but cannabis has an unexpectedly strong and somewhat unpredictable synergy with psychedelics so beware when mixing these drugs.

2C-X and GHB is not usually a harmful combination, it will tend to decrease the effects of both drugs. Be careful as 2C-X has mild stimulant effects which can cover the depressant effects of GHB.

Be careful when taking these drugs together, there is a considerable risk of a bad experience or overdose. If you mix, start low and go slow.

We strongly recommend you avoid taking DXM and cocaine together. Your blood pressure and heart rate are likely to increase to dangerous levels. You are at increased risk of experiencing blackouts. You may also experience anxiety and panic attacks28,29.

There is no evidence to date showing interactions between paracetamol and MDMA. This combination is unlikely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.

[^1]:  Crean, R. D., Crane, N. A., & Mason, B. J. (2011). [An evidence based review of acute and long-term effects of cannabis use on executive cognitive functions](https://journals.lww.com/journaladdictionmedicine/Abstract/2011/03000/An_Evidence_Based_Review_of_Acute_and_Long_Term.1.aspx). Journal of addiction medicine, 5(1), 1.
[^2]:  Curran, H. V., Freeman, T. P., Mokrysz, C., Lewis, D. A., Morgan, C. J., & Parsons, L. H. (2016).[Keep off the grass? Cannabis, cognition and addiction](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27052382). Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 17(5), 293-306.
[^3]:  Earleywine M, Barnwell SS. [Decreased respiratory symptoms in cannabis users who vaporize](https://harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1477-7517-4-11). Harm Reduct J (2007) 4:11. doi:10.1186/1477-7517-4-11.
[^4]:  Filbey, F. M., McQueeny, T., Kadamangudi, S., Bice, C., & Ketcherside, A. (2015). [Combined effects of marijuana and nicotine on memory performance and hippocampal volume.](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166432815301005) Behavioural brain research, 293, 46-53.
[^5]:  Freeman, TP., Morgan, C.J.A., Hindocha, C., Schafer, G., & Curran, H.V (2014). [Just say 'know': how do cannabinoid concentrations influence users' estimates of cannabis potency and the amount they roll in joints?](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/add.12634) Addiction 109(10):1686-94; doi: 10.1111/add.12634
[^6]:  Hall W, Room R, Bondy S. [Comparing the health and psychological risks of alcohol, cannabis, nicotine and opiate use](https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:153575). In: Kalant H, Corrigan W, Hall W, Smart R, eds. The health effects of cannabis. Toronto: Addiction Research Foundation, 1999, pp. 477-508.
[^7]:  Hindocha, C Freeman, T.P., WInstock, A.R, Lynskey, M.T. (2016) [Vaping cannabis (marijuana) has the potential to reduce tobacco smoking in cannabis users.](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/add.13190) Addiction 111(2); 375 -- 375; doi: 10.1111/add.13190.
[^8]:  Hindocha, C., Freeman, T.P., Ferris, J.A., Lynskey, M.T., & Winstock, A.R., (2016) [No Smoke without tobacco? A global overview of cannabis and tobacco routes of administration and their association with intention to quit.](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4933835/) Front Psychiatry, 7, 104.
[^9]:  Hindocha, C., Shaban, N. D., Freeman, T. P., Das, R. K., Gale, G., Schafer, G., ... & Curran, H. V. (2015). [Associations between cigarette smoking and cannabis dependence: a longitudinal study of young cannabis users in the United Kingdom](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4337852/). *Drug & Alcohol Dependence*, *148*, 165-171.
[^10]: <https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/664945/Young-people-statistics-report-from-the-national-drug-treatment-monitoring-system-2016-2017.pdf>
[^11]: <https://www.erowid.org/plants/cannabis/cannabis_dose.shtml>
[^12]: <https://www.globaldrugsurvey.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Printable_Cannabis1.pdf>
[^13]: <http://www.drugscience.org/dl/dl_comparison.html>
[^14]: Iversen, L. L. (2001). [The science of marijuana](https://books.google.es/books/about/The_Science_of_Marijuana.html?id=T1Xeir8wu8wC&redir_esc=y). Oxford University Press.
[^15]: Kleiber D, Soellner R, Tossmann P. [Cannabiskonsum in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland: Entwicklungstendenzen, Konsummuster und Einflußfaktoren](https://books.google.es/books/about/Cannabiskonsum_in_der_Bundesrepublik_Deu.html?id=ws_9MQAACAAJ&redir_esc=y). Bonn: Bundesministerium für Gesundheit, 1997.
[^16]: Kouri EM, Pope HG. [Abstinence symptoms during withdrawal from chronic marijuana use.](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11127420) Exp Clin Psychopharmacol 2000;8(4):483-92.
[^17]: Nutt, D. (2012). [Drugs without the hot air. Minimising the Harms of Legal and Illegal Drugs.](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13592853-drugs-without-the-hot-air) Cambridge: UIT Cambridge Ltd Nutt, D. J., King, L. A., & Phillips, L. D. (2010).
[^18]: Piomelli, D., & Russo, E. B. (2016). [The cannabis sativa versus cannabis indica debate: an interview with Ethan Russo, MD.](https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2015.29003.ebr) Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 44-46.

We have listed the most common effects of cannabis. Please note that everyone can be affected differently, and this is not an exhaustive list. Not everyone experiences these effects, and other effects are possible.

The likelihood of feeling these effects, and the strength of the sensation, depends on the **THC:CBD ratio** of the cannabis.  

The effects are (from positive to negative):

>>> effects 
++   Relaxation
++   Talkativeness and sociablity
++   Happiness
++   Laughter==   Distorted sense of time and space
==   Alteration of sight and smell
==   Mild pain relief
==   Increased heart rate--   Impairment of short-term memory
--   Fatigue
--   Paranoia
--   Slurred speech
--   Impaired motor function
<<<

Sometimes we take too much, here are some signs to look out for, internal and external so that you might detect the signs of an overdose in others.  
Overdosing isn’t always life-threatening; Cannabis is unlikely to cause a fatal overdose, however, taking too much can be very unpleasant. With rising potency and the advent of Cannabis concentrates, which can sometimes be as much as 80% THC, the potential for overdose is much greater than it used to be.  

Internal signs:

- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations
- Altered sense of perception or delusions
- Decreased blood pressure/dizziness
- Fast heart beat

External signs:

- Pale skin
- Unresponsiveness
- Vomiting and/or nausea
- Shaking that’s hard to control

When experiencing these symptoms, or seeing them in another, the best course of action is to first avoid taking any more drugs. Move to a calm and relaxing place, drink plenty of water, eat some carbs and take it easy for the rest of the day. The method of ingestion and potency of Cannabis will affect how long the symptoms can last; for smoking/vaping this is usually 1-3 hours and for edibles 3-6 hours.  

### How? How Much? When? For how Long?

Read our sections on dosing and tolerance for more information.

The effects you experience from a given dose of cannabis depends on many different details about the user, such as their weight, the speed of their metabolism, their past experiences and the situation in which the cannabis is consumed.

The same is true of every other drug, but with cannabis, it is especially difficult to identify one’s ideal quantity, due to the variety of strains, the way you consume it, and the distribution of the active compounds in the buds.

### How you take it matters...

_From the healthiest to the most harmful way:_

#### Spray

This route of administration is the healthiest, but it can only be obtained with a medical prescription in countries where this is legal and sold. As such, it is barely used among recreational drug users, who for the most part are left with more calorific or carcinogenic alternatives. [**Sativex**](https://www.mstrust.org.uk/a-z/sativex-nabiximols) is the most widely-known spray. It contains high levels of both THC and CBD, and takes around 15 minutes to kick in.

#### Vaping/Vaporisation

[**Vaping**](https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/how-does-vaporization-work) involves heating up cannabis to release THC and other cannabinoids. Vaping is, crucially, a cleaner alternative to combustion (i.e. smoking/inhaling). The heating process creates a temperature cool enough to avoid creating the toxins that appear during combustion. Therefore, vaping is likely to reduce the coughing and throat irritation associated with smoking. It also doesn’t require any tobacco, and therefore may reduce tobacco addiction in cannabis users (3,7,8). This may be the most expensive method of administration, because of the price of the vaporiser. However, vaporising could be a cost-effective method in the long term8,9.

Read about [**how vaporisation works**](https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/how-does-vaporization-work).

#### Eating

Eating is probably the easiest and safest way to consume cannabis. However, eating cannabis is not without dangers: users anticipate similar timing and effects to when they are vaping/smoking/inhaling, but the effects **take much longer** (up to 2 hours) when consuming edibles. Therefore, it’s tempting to re-dose before the high comes on. **Be patient:** if the first dose wasn't strong enough, try a higher dose another day. Re-dosing is the easiest way to overdose! People normally feel that edibles give them a “body high,” this is because the compounds in cannabis are slightly altered by the stomach, intestine and liver.

#### Inhaling

Cannabis can be inhaled through a pipe or a bong. While it's less harmful than smoking, it is easier to inhale greater quantities of smoke. Users should be careful not to breathe too deeply in order to regulate their high. Bongs with ice catchers can reduce the irritation of the throat as the ice cools down the smoke.

#### Smoking

Smoking cannabis is the most common way to consuming cannabis, even though it’s the unhealthiest. This method **increases the probability of developing lung cancer** because burning cannabis (with or without tobacco) creates toxins associated with cancer. In Europe, cannabis is often mixed with a much deadlier companion: tobacco. Adding tobacco to your cannabis increases the chances of throat irritation, and also increases the risks of cancer and dependence. We recommend to avoid smoking cannabis, but if you do instead of using tobacco you could use herbal smoking blends without nicotine and other toxins found in tobacco.

### How much?

#### Smoking

Every time you try a new strain, or use a different supplier, smoke a [**smaller dose than you are used to**](https://drugsand.me/en/me/dosing/), so you can notice variations in the effects and potency of the drug (we define potency as the amount of active ingredient required to produce a desired effect).

-   **Light dose:** 0.05 g
-   **Common dose:** 0.15 g
-   **Strong dose:** 0.25 g

For someone consuming the average dose, a one gram bag of cannabis will last between 8–12 smokes, if you roll your joints with king skins and mix your weed with tobacco.

#### Eating

When you cook edibles, there are even more factors that influence the effects you'll get from the food. Some of these are: the strain you are using, whether you are using oil or butter, the time you leave it cooking, the strength of the heat (low heat, between 1-2 hours in a saucepan is optimum), and of course, your culinary skills...

-   **Light dose:** 2.5 - 5 mg (THC)
-   **Medium dose:** 5-25 mg (THC)
-   **Strong dose:** 25 mg (THC)

### When do the effects kick in?

The **START** time below is when you will usually begin to feel the effects of cannabis from the time when you first take it. **DURATION** is roughly the length of time you will experience the effects, after which the effects will start to wind down and you might start to feel the comedown effects.

#### Smoking

-   **START:** 2-10 minutes
-   **DURATION:** 2-8 hours

#### Eating

-   **START:** 20-120 minutes (depends on stomach content)
-   **DURATION:** 3-9 hours

[**Kief**](http://www.marijuana.com/blog/news/2016/04/what-is-kief/) is the resin that falls off dry cannabis or what accumulates in grinders. It is the strongest part and contains high concentrations of THC. Watch out for this.

### How often can I take it?

Consuming cannabis too often decreases the potency of this drug on your body. This may lead to consuming larger amounts of cannabis. Save cannabis for special occasions or events only, and use it sparingly.

>>> brain-food 
Tobacco and cannabis are often used together and have a unique relationship. [**In a recent worldwide survey**](http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00104/full), 65% of respondents said they smoke joints made with cannabis and tobacco. Studies indicate that the likelihood of developing cannabis dependence is increased by 5 times when cannabis is smoked with tobacco, as opposed to on its own e.g. smoking cigarettes and cannabis, and together, in joints. Often, users pair the two because the tobacco acts as an inexpensive filler.

A hypothesis suggests that this increase in addictiveness may be a two-way street, with the cannabis enhancing your likelihood of developing nicotine dependence. Being addicted to nicotine is thought to go hand-in-hand with poorer psychiatric and psychosocial conditions.

Finally, the World Health Organisation notes that smoking-related deaths are the most preventable kind in the world. So it’s imperative that alternative methods of consuming cannabis are used. However, smoking cannabis with tobacco is still the go-to method in most countries around the world.

_Written by_ [***Chandni Hindocha***](https://www.ucl.ac.uk/cpu/team/psychopharmacologyunit/chandni-hindocha)_, PhD student at UCL_
<<<

There are certain precautions you should take before using cannabis. The advice below helps to prepare you both physically and mentally. We want you to be safe and enjoy your experience as much as possible, so if you have a bad experience or are struggling with especially bad after-effects, please take note of the advice below.

>>> tabs 
# Before 

### AVOID TOBACCO

It is common to mix cannabis with tobacco to consume the former. However, this habit increases the chances of dependence and of developing cancer. We recommend to avoid smoking cannabis, but if you do instead of using tobacco you could use herbal smoking blends without nicotine and other toxins found in tobacco.

### GET SOME WATER

While you are under the effects of cannabis, you should drink regular water to avoid feeling unwell. People tend to forget about drinking water, so try to get some water in advance.

### RIGHT MINDSET

Try not consume cannabis alone, this will increase the chance of unpleasant experiences, unsafe circumstances, and dependence. You should also avoid smoking to numb anger or sadness, this can lead to bad experiences too.

### COMFY PLACE

Cannabis can have some hallucinogenic effects and it can sometimes make people paranoid. To avoid bad experiences, try to consume cannabis in a comfortable and safe space.

### THC:CBD

In recent years, the potency of cannabis in the UK has been increasing, i.e. the concentration of the major psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, THC, has increased. Within the same time-frame, the number of young people seeking treatment for cannabis dependence has also increased5,10. This upsurge is thought to be due to the rising THC levels. At the same time as THC levels have risen, there has been a corresponding decrease in the amount of the primary non-psychoactive, and possibly protective, cannabinoid called Cannabidiol (CBD)14.

Cannabis users are advised to smoke varieties of cannabis that are high in CBD e.g. resin/hash and to avoid '[**skunk**](http://volteface.me/features/skunk-out-of-business/)'. If you don't have much experience with cannabis, you are more likely to get paranoia if the strain is low in CBD and high in THC.

_Written by_ [***Chandni Hindocha***](https://www.ucl.ac.uk/cpu/team/psychopharmacologyunit/chandni-hindocha)_, PhD student at UCL_

# During 

### Feeling unwell?

It's very uncommon, but you might feel unwell after consuming cannabis. It can happen to anyone, although it is more common in first-time users. Surprisingly, it can occur with low or high doses and with a strain you have tried before. When this happens, people generally feel nausea, paranoia and look pale.

To help yourself or a friend consider doing the following:

- Drink some water and consume sugar. Be careful with overeating or drinking too much: take water in short sips and eat small bites, take your time to chew and swallow.
- Lie down and take deep breathes. Slow down your breath rate.
- To help someone who is whiteying: talk slowly and calmly to the person. Find out if he/she needs conversation and attention or prefers silence and some time on their own. Provide them with water and something to eat. Help them breathe deeply and at a constant pace.
- Take it easy for the rest of the day and rest. You should not consume more drugs even if you feel full of energy again, as your body will be less well-equipped to process them. 

# After 

### Hangover?

Some people observe feeling “hungover” after consuming weed, others don't.

You may experience some of the following:

- Headache
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Dry itchy eyes
- Grogginess or spaciness
- Feeling of being in slow motion
- Mild nausea
- Congestion

The best advice we can give to reduce hangovers is to drink plenty of water and get enough sleep!
<<<

Contrary to what many weed smokers believe, addiction and dependence can occur when using cannabis. Medical practitioners call it [**Cannabis use disorder**](https://www.verywell.com/cannabis-use-disorder-22295). However, it seems to be true that cannabis shows much lower dependency rates than other recreational drugs, such as alcohol and nicotine.

Read more about dependence [here](https://drugsand.me/en/me/addiction).

### In the long term

Cannabis can have long-term effects when used heavily (i.e. daily or almost daily).

However, all the negative effects of cannabis seem to wear off after a relatively short period of total abstinence, usually 4-6 weeks[^1] [^2].

Cannabis compounds affect a system that is crucial for the development of your brain. Therefore, people who started using cannabis during adolescence may develop:

- Impaired spatial orientation
- Impaired verbal fluency
- Reduced [**inhibition**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_inhibition)

In terms of the effects on daily users, there are discrepancies in the scientific literature on the subject. But the most common negative effects are thought to be[^4] [^16]:

- Difficulty making decisions
- Difficulty learning new things
- Difficulty making future plans

If you mix cannabis with tobacco, you significantly increase the harms, and aggregate the risks of developing health problems.

**Check and compare your drug use anonymously with the** [**Drugsmeter Cannabis app.**](https://drugsmeter.com/cannabis/app/)

**Learn more above in the "How you take it matters" section.**

### Lung cancer

Many of the harms of cannabis stem from the fact that it is smoked. It seems that smoking cannabis doesn't cause cancer but we still don't have enough data to say this for sure. What smoking cannabis definitely does, is cause a variety of chronic lung problems such as [**chronic obstructive pulmonary disease**](http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease/Pages/Introduction.aspx).

**Watch this video if you want to know more about medical cannabis and its impact on human health.**

https://www.youtube.com/embed/VsDic2na8co

### When you want to quit...

While withdrawal symptoms are mild and can be easily overcome, weaning yourself off weed does have some unpleasant effects. As with every single drug, the intensity of the withdrawal depends on the quantity you’ve trained your brain and body to tolerate/expect.

Here are some **psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms** you may experience when you are trying to quit:

- Craving
- Insomnia and nightmares
- Demotivation
- Lack of enjoyment
- Aggressiveness and/or anger
- Irritability
- Unpleasant corporal symptoms
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Mood changes

**Remember: Don't hesitate to look for medical help, you won't get in trouble.**

Nicotine is often consumed with cannabis. Some withdrawal symptoms are common for most recreational drugs, but for daily users of cannabis and tobacco combined, the double withdrawal is stronger than if you choose to consume cannabis on its own. This is another great reason to go for vaping/eating.

Sometimes the drugs we think we are buying turn out to be something very different. Knowing of the common substitutes and adulterants that dealers swap or add in is an easy way to stay safe.

#### Spice (a.k.a Kronic, Blue Lotus, K2)

A group of synthetic cannabinoids (THC analog molecules) sold as substitutes for cannabis. Spice is often sold as an oil which is sprayed onto plant material (which may resemble herbal cannabis) or tobacco. The effects are much stronger with more frequent side-effects. Strength varies a lot, making overdoses very common. A spice overdose is very serious, and an ambulance should be called immediately. Symptoms include: high temperature (more than 38°C), seizures, breathing difficulties, rapid heart rate and loss of consciousness. Spice overdoses have been known to cause serotonin syndrome, which has similar symptoms but can also include unusual twitching or jerking movements, fully dilated pupils and shivering. DrugWise has a great [info sheet on Spice](https://www.drugwise.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/Spice-info-sheetv1.3-Interactive-national.pdf).  

__Sources:__ [Drugscience](http://www.drugscience.org.uk/drugs/cannabinoids/spice); [Release](https://www.release.org.uk/drugs/synthetic-cannabinoids-salvia-spice-k2/law); [drugabuse.com](https://drugabuse.com/the-dangerous-and-deadly-effects-of-spice/)

### Europe

- **UK:** [**Illegal**](https://www.gov.uk/penalties-drug-possession-dealing) Class B drug. Possession: up to 5 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both. Supply and production: up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.
- **France:** [**Illegal**](http://www.thelocal.fr/20130610/legalized-cannabis-tea-could-be-on-drug-menu-for-french-patients-in-pharmacies) but permitted for medical products.
- **Germany:** [**Not prosecuted up to 6-15 grams depending on the Ländern.**](http://sensiseeds.com/en/blog/legal-status-cannabis-germany/) Only legal when a permission by 'Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Services' for medical use is obtained.
- **Netherlands:** Legal (less than 5 grams is considered personal use).
- **Norway:** Legal (less than 15 grams is considered personal use).
- **Spain** and **Portugal**: Legal (only private growing and smoking are legal).
- **Switzerland:** Legal (growing up to four plants is legal).
- **Russia:** [**Illegal**](http://webehigh.org/moscow-russia/), but decriminalised up to 6 grams.

### America

- **USA:** [**Illegal**](http://www.governing.com/gov-data/state-marijuana-laws-map-medical-recreational.html) at the federal level, but legal for medical/recreational use in the states of Colorado, Washington, Alaska and Oregon as well as in some cities.
- **Canada:** Legal everywhere in Canada since October 17th 2018.
- **Mexico:** Possession is illegal but decriminalized up to 5 grams. [**Growing and selling are illegal.**](http://druglawreform.info/country-information/mexico/item/205-mexico#2)

### Asia and Australasia

- **Australia:** [**Illegal**](http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/05/22/1053585645363.html), but decriminalised in some states.
- **New Zealand:** [**Illegal**](http://www.police.govt.nz/advice/drugs-and-alcohol/cannabis-and-law).
- **Singapore:** [**Illegal**](http://goseasia.about.com/od/singapore/a/Singapore-Drug-Laws.htm).
- **Hong Kong:** [**Illegal**](http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/04_crime_matters/drug/law_pen.html).
- **Israel:** [**Illegal**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_in_Israel).

### Africa

- **South Africa:** [**Decriminalised for personal consumption**](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-45559954)

### FAQs

#### Is cannabis harmless?

Using cannabis is neither harmless nor free of potential health-related problems. However, it appears to be one of the safest drugs and it can be even use for therapy when used correctly.

#### Does cannabis make you 'dumber?'

Occasional consumption has no effect on any cognitive skill. However, heavy users can experience long-term impairment of some cognitive skills.

#### Can using cannabis lead to schizophrenia?

There are big discrepancies in the scientific literature, but a clear causal relationship between cannabis use and schizophrenia has not been found2.

#### What's the difference between Sativa and Indica?

[**Sativa strains**](https://primemind.com/sativa-vs-indica-science-or-folklore-5b6ba6eaaa0d#.755upr554) tend to give an uplifting and energetic high while indica strains give a relaxing and calming high. However, this classification seems to be flawed!18

#### Will smoking cannabis lead me onto using more dangerous drugs?

Cannabis is said to be a '[**gateway drug**](https://www.theguardian.com/science/sifting-the-evidence/2015/mar/03/is-cannabis-a-gateway-drug),' suggesting that the use of this drug leads users to consume other illicit drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines. There is actually no evidence to prove the gateway drug theory. There seems to be an association between the consumption of cannabis and other illicit drugs, but we don't know if this relationship is a matter of [**causation, or simply correlation**](http://rationalwiki.org/wiki/Correlation_does_not_imply_causation).

When trying a new strain or form of cannabis for the first time, start with small doses at long intervals to avoid overdosing and the unpleasant side-effects that come with it

Start low, go slow

Edibles don’t carry the risks of smoking but they are much easier to overdose with because they take so long to kick in. Start small and avoid redosing.

Careful with edibles

Smoking is the most harmful way to have cannabis; vaping is a smoke-free alternative, which avoids the use of tobacco and is easier on the lungs

Cannabis

{Weed, marijuana, kush, pot, hash, skunk}

Interactions

References