What to do if it feels too strong

What can happen

At too high a dose: anxiety or panic, a racing heart, nausea, dizziness, sweating, confusion, a sense of unreality, and suspicion. Fainting also occurs, often on standing up or in a warm room.

These symptoms feel severe but are usually temporary.

What helps

• Sit or lie down somewhere quiet, away from crowds, loud music and bright light.
• Drink water. No alcohol, and preferably no coffee or energy drinks.
• Do not stay alone. Ask someone to sit with you; that alone takes the edge off.
• Breathe slowly. In slowly, out more slowly. This dampens the physical response to anxiety.
• Find distraction. A familiar show, music, or simply talking helps you not to spiral.
• Wait. Nothing speeds it up. Time is what works.

How long it lasts

After inhaling, it usually subsides within a few hours. With edibles it takes longer: four to eight hours, with after-effects beyond that. A long duration is unpleasant but not in itself cause for concern.

When to seek help

Call a doctor, the out-of-hours GP service or 112 if there is:

• serious breathing difficulty or chest pain
• reduced consciousness, or difficulty waking someone
• persistent vomiting
• ongoing panic or confusion that does not ease
• ingestion by a child: always call, even without clear symptoms
• uncertainty about what was taken, or a combination with alcohol or medication

Do not hesitate to call. Medical staff are there to help, and being completely open about what was taken is essential for treatment.

Prevention

Most severe experiences come from edibles, where a second portion was taken within the first hour. Always wait at least two hours. Avoid combining with alcohol, and stay in a calm, familiar setting.