With all the potential medicinal benefits of cannabis circling the industry’s conversations, it can be easy to overlook the health risks that might be associated with the plant. One question that raises concerns for people is “can cannabis cause Serotonin Syndrome?” To understand the answer, we first need to take a look at what exactly this condition is.
Serotonin Syndrome
Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical in the body. This chemical is vital to the production of nerve cells and for the brain to function. Too much serotonin however can cause symptoms ranging from mild–shivering or diarrhea–to severe–fever, seizures, and muscle rigidity. Serotonin Syndrome is a serious drug reaction brought on by a buildup of high levels of serotonin in the body from medications. Without treatment, severe cases can lead to death.
For people asking “can weed cause Serotonin Syndrome,” the answer depends on a few factors. Firstly, the syndrome most often occurs by combining medications that contain serotonin. For example, combining migraine medicine with an antidepressant. Cannabis produces serotonin, so combining weed with prescription medicines in excess could result in contracting this condition.
Mixing Cannabis With Other Drugs
Mixing Cannabis with other drugs can cause a wealth of issues beyond serotonin overload.
In America, people commonly have prescriptions for benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin. These drugs are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other health conditions. The depressant nature of these drugs combined with the potentially depressant effects of cannabis may “suppress the nervous system to dangerous levels”, according to the American Addiction Center.
The same is true for opiates. Mixing cannabis with opiates like Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, and morphine may result in decreased brain function, low blood pressure, extreme sedation, coma, and death.
Conclusion
The rule of thumb for people wondering if weed can cause Serotonin Syndrome is to be careful with mixing drugs at an excessive level. If this isn’t possible, exercise moderation with your cannabis intake while adhering to any prescription medications. Everyone’s body is different and it’s important to remember that anything in excess might become volatile for your health.
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