Greening out: what to do if you take too much
Took too much? It passes. A calm, practical guide to getting through it.
“Greening out” is the unpleasant feeling of having taken too much cannabis, dizziness, nausea, anxiety, a racing heart. It’s frightening in the moment, but the key fact: it passes, and you’re not in danger.
First, the reassurance
You cannot fatally overdose on cannabis. No one has died from THC alone. What you’re feeling is temporary and will fade as the effects wear off, usually within a few hours, faster for inhaled, longer for edibles.
What to do
- Stop using: no more.
- Get comfortable: sit or lie down somewhere quiet and safe.
- Hydrate: sip water; have a light snack if you can.
- Breathe slowly: anxiety amplifies it; slow breathing helps.
- Distract yourself: calm music, a familiar show, a trusted person nearby.
- CBD may help: if you have it, it can take the edge off THC.
What helps in folklore (and what doesn’t)
Black pepper (chewing a peppercorn or sniffing it) is a popular trick some find calming, harmless to try. Showers, fresh air, and time all help. There’s no instant cure; mostly you ride it out.
When to seek help
It’s rarely necessary, but if someone has trouble breathing, chest pain, won’t wake up, or you’re genuinely worried, especially with a child, a senior, or alcohol involved, call for medical help. Better safe.
This is why we say start low and wait. See the first-time guide and edibles dosing.
Sources
- Health Canada, Cannabis health effects
Frequently asked questions
How long does greening out last?
Usually an hour or two for inhaled cannabis, and longer for edibles. It always passes, the feeling peaks and then fades.
What helps when you're too high?
A calm spot, slow breathing, water, and time. Some people find a snack or black peppercorns help. Lie down and ride it out.
Can you die from greening out?
No. There's no known fatal cannabis overdose. It feels awful but isn't dangerous for an otherwise healthy adult. Get medical help if symptoms are severe or someone is very unwell.
How do I avoid it next time?
Start low, wait the full two hours with edibles before more, don't mix with alcohol, and eat something first.
Know your local rules
Legal age, where to buy, and where you can use it all change by province.
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