Can Weed Cause Hallucinations? Here’s When It Might Happen

Imagine taking a hit from a weed vape and, within moments, being plunged into intense, vivid hallucinations.

That’s exactly what happened to a healthy 30-year-old male in a controlled lab study, where a high dose of THC vapor led him to see and hear things that weren’t actually there.

This rare reaction, measured with the Hallucinogen Rating Scale (HRS), showed his experience reached levels usually associated with classic hallucinogens like LSD.

While these hallucinations were still different from the intense, full-spectrum effects of substances like psilocybin, they were strong enough to raise questions: Under what conditions can cannabis trigger hallucinations, and is this phenomenon more common than we think?

It’s rare to experience hallucinations after using cannabis. But, it’s not impossible, as the John Hopkins case has proven.

Several other studies have linked synthetic cannabinoids to psychotic or hallucinogen-like effects in humans who were otherwise healthy and did not have a family history of psychosis. In these studies, following the use of synthetic cannabinoids like HHC (hexahydrocannabinol), symptoms included seizures, violent behavior, and/or psychosis.

On average, at higher doses, one may experience mild hallucinations after using cannabis. These aren’t typically full-blown vivid hallucinations one might experience with using psychedelics like LSD or psilocybin mushrooms.

With weed, you’re more likely to experience subtle changes in perception, like:

• Colors appearing brighter
• Time feeling slower
• Sounds seeming amplified

You’ll likely recognize these as part of your altered state and they’ll disappear when the high fades away.

If you believe you are experiencing hallucinations or psychotic-like symptoms following the use of cannabis, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

In 2021, the Connecticut Department of Public Health made headlines when it reported over 40 cases of fentanyl-laced marijuana overdoses in the state—a shocking reminder of the risks that can lurk in unregulated cannabis.

While laced weed is rare, it’s a reality that can bring unexpected, often unpleasant effects, turning a relaxing high into a disorienting and potentially dangerous experience.

Laced cannabis can contain anything from powerful drugs like PCP to synthetic chemicals or even everyday contaminants.

These added substances can produce reactions far outside the usual mellow, predictable effects of cannabis.

Signs that your cannabis might be laced include:

• unusually strong odor and/or taste
• unexpected intensity in the high
• vivid hallucinations
• extreme paranoid
• physical numbness

If something feels off, it’s best to stop smoking immediately. Stick to trusted sources to avoid these unwanted surprises and to keep your experience safe and enjoyable.

While hallucinations from cannabis are rare, they’re not impossible, especially with high THC doses or synthetic cannabinoids.

As research evolves, stick to trusted products, be mindful of dosage, and stay informed to keep your experience positive and predictable.