What it does

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It relaxes, alters perception of time, and can heighten or distort mood. Modern flower and concentrates are far stronger than a decade ago; edibles come on slowly (60–120 min) and last much longer.

Safer-use principles

• —Start low, go slow — especially with edibles. Wait 2 hours before re-dosing.
• —High-THC concentrates can trigger acute anxiety, paranoia, or vomiting (cannabinoid hyperemesis) even in regular users.
• —Cannabis impairs driving. Don't drive high.
• —Family history of psychosis is a strong reason for caution, especially with high-THC products and heavy use in adolescence.

Dangerous combinations

Combining with alcohol multiplies impairment and vomiting risk. Combined with other depressants it deepens sedation.

If something goes wrong

Fatal overdose from cannabis alone is extremely rare, but 'greening out' — panic, vomiting, racing heart — is unpleasant and can require ER care. Find a calm, cool place, hydrate, and ride it out with someone present.