CANNAConsumer Magazine August 2017 | Page 33

MEDICAL CANNABIS 33

So what are the current treatment

options if you ingest too much THC?

Benzodiazepines and Sedatives

The recommended protocol for someone presenting in the ER with cannabis overconsumption is to treat with a sedative such as a benzodiazepine and observe until symptoms subside.

Those with access to benzodiazepines at home may end up using these if they

feel that they are having symptoms of anxiety after taking cannabis. You should take these with caution since there may be additive or synergistic sedative effects between THC and benzodiazepines. The dose needed to reduce anxiety may be much lower if you have consumed cannabis than if you haven’t. Due to dangerous drug interactions, benzodiazepines should never be used if other sedatives, alcohol, or opiates have been taken.

A number of naturally occurring terpenes (myrcene, limonene, pinene, and others) have sedative effects via a benzodiazpine-like mechanism. In this case, the possible synergism with THC could be helpful for boosting the sedative effect of these weaker molecules.

Although alcohol also has sedative properties, combining alcohol and cannabis (especially with high doses) often leads to extreme dizziness and nausea. Therefore, drinking is not a recommended strategy for dealing with a cannabis overdose.

Although sedatives may reduce the anxiety caused by cannabis overconsumption, there is one large drawback. You will remain intoxicated (and may be even more so). Driving or doing anything requiring energy or coordination is completely out of the question. Time must be allowed for the effect of both drugs to wear off.

MEDICAL

CANNABIS