Blog Menu

How to Deal With a Cannabis Hangover

by Christy Coy 5 min read

How to Deal With a Cannabis Hangover

Getting Rid Of Your Marijuana Hangover

Many of us know all too well what an alcohol hangover feels like. But what about a cannabis hangover? 

There is some debate over whether or not weed hangovers are actually real. Admittedly, due to regulations restricting the studying of cannabis in medical settings, very little research on the subject exists. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t a possibility. 

The few studies that have looked at the after effects of cannabis use are inconclusive, but have revealed some evidence of “post cannabis” physiological changes which may not be pleasant for some to deal with.  

Too much of any one thing can lead to next-day regrets, and cannabis is likely not an exception to this time-tested and sage advice. As such, we always encourage readers to use responsibly and not to excess. This is especially prudent advice when trying out new strains (some of which can be quite potent) or when consuming concentrates.

What is a Cannabis Hangover Like?

A cannabis hangover has been said to be more tolerable than a hangover induced by alcohol. It is important to note that not everybody will experience a cannabis hangover after use, and that different modes of consumption, as well as potency and strains, may play a role. 

A cannabis hangover is a reaction individualized and unique to each person and their own physiology. Some may tolerate smoking well while others have issues with edibles for example.

Reported Symptoms Of A Weed Hangover:

  • Dry eyes and mouth
  • Headaches
  • Slight nausea
  • Brain fog
  • Inability to focus
  • Lethargy
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Higher blood pressure
  • Fatigue    

Causes and Prevention of a Weed Hangover

What causes a weed hangover is still under debate. Some say hangovers are a sign of overuse of the substance, while others speculate it’s due to how each individual reacts to different types of marijuana. No matter the cause, dealing with it the next day is essential. In order to function and get through the day, here are some ways to try and prevent a weed hangover.

Don’t Use It

Avoidance may sound harsh (and perhaps unrealistic for you) but sometimes the best way to prevent something is not to do it in the first place. If you know you have a busy day coming up, or an important event taking place, try to hold off on the weed consumption the night before. Find another way to relax if you know you get weed hangovers. 

Stagger Your Use

If you find yourself smoking a lot of weed as a way to deal with daily stress, that is a sign to take a day or two off. The more marijuana you consume, the more tolerance your body will develop. That means you will require more THC to get your desired effect. If you try to stop, your body may experience withdrawal symptoms come morning. Be aware of how much weed you are using and how often you use it.

Low-THC Marijuana

There are different levels of THC present in marijuana plants. The plants with a higher concentration of THC cause more of a high when used. If you suffer from weed hangovers, try using lower doses of THC. 

How to Tell It’s a Weed Hangover 

As it was said before, weed hangovers are not like those caused by alcohol. One way to know is if you happened to consume more weed than usual the night before you wake up feeling wonky. Some other combinations with marijuana that can cause morning after effects include:

Combining 

If you tend to use weed on a somewhat regular basis, and you don’t usually get weed hangovers, it may be a combination of things causing you to feel off. If you drank alcohol or used other drugs with your weed, it may cause unwanted reactions the next day. 

Withdrawal

Too much weed used daily can build up a tolerance in your body. It is possible to experience withdrawal symptoms if you decide to stop regular use. Symptoms of marijuana withdrawal can include mood changes, problems focusing, and even insomnia. If you wake up feeling a little off, it may be due to the overuse of marijuana. 

Trying Something New

Different strains of weed can have varying effects on your body. If you are used to one type of marijuana, and you decide to try something new, a different combination of weed can linger longer in your system. Usually, marijuana highs will last from one hour up to four. If it’s been five or more hours since you last used, and you are still feeling weird, odds are the new strain is taking longer for your body to process. 

Best Movies To Watch Stoned

If you are going to try something new, it’s a good idea to start with a lower dose than usual. It’s also a good idea not to mix a new weed with anything. That way, if you do suffer from a weed hangover the next day, it won’t be amplified by other substances.   

How to Treat a Weed Hangover 

Time is going to be your greatest ally when it comes to trying to treat a weed hangover. There isn’t anything that will provide an immediate fix, but there are things you can do to lessen the effect of the weed. 

  • Stay Hydrated
  • Eat A Healthy Breakfast
  • Ginger Tea
  • Drink Caffeine
  • Use CBD
  • Take A Hot Shower
  • Over The Counter Pain Reliever
  • And Rest  

Taking it easy and letting the effects of the marijuana pass is the only way to rid yourself of the hangover. The treatments listed above are only going to help with the symptoms. If you find yourself experiencing frequent weed hangovers, it may be time to seek help.

Signs of Dependence

Although it is said that weed is not addictive, some individuals find themselves using it regularly to deal with life. The more often marijuana is consumed, the more likely you are to develop a dependency on it. Any substance, including food, can become addictive. It all depends on how often you are using it. If you find you are overusing weed, and it’s starting to affect your everyday life, it’s a good idea to seek help. Speaking with a counselor or a doctor will help you get control over your use. Signs of weed-misuse include:

  • Using daily 
  • Developing cravings 
  • Upping your dose regularly
  • Obsessing over the next time you can use
  • Using more than you realized
  • Needing a constant supply
  • Avoiding jobs or events because you can’t use
  • Spending more money than you can afford on weed
  • Using even though it is negatively affecting you/your loved ones

Final Thoughts Regarding Cannabis Hangovers  

Where it is difficult to say what causes a weed hangover, there are a few things you can do to help lessen the effects. If you notice you have hangovers due to daily use of weed, it may be time to seek help or just stop for a while. If you don’t get them regularly, pay attention to what you did differently while using. Some combinations will amplify the effects of THC and worsen a weed hangover.