What It Is?
These are food items made with cannabis extract. They can be in the form:
- brownies, cookies, cakes,
- chocolates,
- gummies,
- candies
- drinks
They are a popular way to consume marijuana, especially among first-time users, because they offer a smoke-free option and are often seen as being more potent than other methods of consumption. Edible products can be made from any cannabis oil. They tend to be more effective for better absorption of THC in the body.
Edibles can also be made using different strains of marijuana. Some strains are more potent than others, so it is important to know the strength of the marijuana you are using before consuming an edible. Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, so it is important to be patient and not consume more than recommended.
What Are the Risks of Consumption?
There are many risks associated with consuming edible marijuana products. Edibles can be very potent and may cause serious side effects, including psychotic episodes, anxiety, and paranoia. Edibles can also interact with other medications you are taking, so it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming any type of marijuana product. Edible marijuana products can also be a choking hazard, Edibles can also be a choking hazard, particularly for young children.
Overdose. How High Is Its Potential?
So how high is the potential for overdosing on marijuana? Well, it depends on some factors, including the THC content of the product, the person’s tolerance to cannabis, and how much of the product is consumed. Ingesting marijuana Edibles can result in a much more intense high than smoking or inhaling the drug, making it more likely to result in an overdose. Symptoms of Edible marijuana overdose include extreme anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and even psychosis.
What Are the Side Effects?
There are a variety of potential side effects associated with edible marijuana. These side effects can range from mild to severe, and some may be more likely to occur in certain individuals than others. The most common side effects include anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, impaired coordination, dry mouth, and red eyes. Some of the less common side effects include psychosis, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, edible marijuana can lead to an extreme reaction called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, which is characterized by recurrent nausea and vomiting.
Is There an Addiction?
There is some debate about whether edible marijuana is addictive. Some people argue that because marijuana does not cause physical addiction, it is impossible to become addicted to food. However, others argue that the consumption of food itself can be addictive. This is especially true for people who use edible products to self-medicate for underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. There are a few key signs to look out for:
- Preoccupation with purchasing and using edible marijuana
- Use of edible marijuana despite negative effects
- Edible marijuana use interferes with work, school, or family life.
- Edible marijuana use causes financial problems
- Use of edible marijuana leads to relationship difficulties
Addiction to edible marijuana is a serious problem and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Children, Teenagers, and Edible Marijuana. What Is the Impact?
While edibles can be enjoyed by people of all ages, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks they pose to children and teenagers. Because edibles can look like regular food items, children may mistake them for something safe to eat. This can lead to accidental ingestion and, in some cases, serious health consequences. Edibles also tend to have a higher concentration of THC (the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana) than other marijuana products, which can make them more potent and potentially more dangerous.
For teenagers, the risk posed by edibles is twofold. First, they may be more likely to experiment with edibles than other marijuana products due to the perception that they are safer or less dangerous. Second, the high concentration of THC in edibles can make them more likely to experience negative side effects, such as anxiety and paranoia.
If you have children or teenagers in your home, it’s important to make sure that any edibles are kept out of reach and properly labeled. If you’re considering trying edibles yourself, be sure to start with a low dose and see how you react before consuming more. Edibles can be a fun and safe way to enjoy marijuana, but it’s important to be aware of the risks involved.
