If you use cannabis regularly, you’ve probably heard of cannabis tolerance. This phenomenon that regular cannabis users are familiar with plays an important role in their experience. It refers to the diminished effect of cannabis after repeated use. This can lead to the need to consume more to achieve the same effect.

Tolerance can change users’ experience, requiring them to consume more. This in turn brings financial and health implications. How exactly does cannabis tolerance work and what can you do to minimize it? Read about it here.

What is cannabis tolerance?

Tolerance is a situation in which the body and mind become less sensitive to the effects of the substances in cannabis. This is due to repeated exposure to THC and other substances that cause psychoactive effects. Think, for example, of feeling high or stoned.

With tolerance, adaptations occur in the body’s endocannabinoid system. This causes the receptors to become less responsive to an active substance of cannabis, such as THC. This causes you to have to use higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Psychological mechanisms also include conditioning, where the user becomes accustomed to the effects and notices or appreciates them less. In addition, tolerance can lead to changes in the way cannabis is metabolized and eliminated by the body. This also shortens the duration of the effects. 

Tolerance can result in increased cannabis use. It can also lead to health risks and addiction problems. Therefore, it is important for users to be aware of the effects.

weed tolerance

How does tolerance develop?

Tolerance develops in response to repeated use of a substance, such as cannabis. The rate at which tolerance occurs is influenced by several factors, including the frequency and dosage of use, as well as the type of cannabis consumed. With regular use, the body can adapt to the presence of the amount of THC by reducing the sensitivity of the receptors that respond to it.

The mechanism behind it includes changes at the cellular level. The nervous system adapts to minimize the effects of the psychoactive substance. This can lead to diminished response to the same dose, so users tend to use higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Some users may develop tolerance quickly after short periods of regular use, while others may maintain long-term use without developing much tolerance. Genetics, metabolism, and previous exposure to substances all play a role in determining how quickly and to what degree tolerance develops in different individuals.

Recognizing tolerance: symptoms and signs

Recognizing tolerance to cannabis is necessary for users to remain aware of their consumption patterns and potential health risks. Increased tolerance can involve several symptoms and signs, some of which are subtle changes that users may overlook.

Higher dose needed

A common symptom of tolerance to cannabis is the need for higher doses to achieve the same effect. Users may find that they need to consume more cannabis than before to experience the same level of relaxation or euphoria. This can lead to more frequent use and an increase in the amount of cannabis consumed.

Less effect noticeable

Another sign of tolerance is decreased sensitivity to the effects of THC. Users may find that they are less responsive to common effects, such as changes in perception, mood or cognitive functions. This can lead to disappointment in users who no longer experience the desired effects as before, or need more cannabis to achieve the desired effect.

Physical symptoms

In addition, users may experience physical symptoms, such as a decreased ability to feel the effects of cannabis, even after consuming significant amounts. This can lead to experimenting with different consumption methods, such as smoking stronger concentrates or using edibles with higher THC content.

Increased tolerance to cannabis affects not only enjoyment, but also its effectiveness as medicine. For patients who use a certain amount of cannabis for medicinal purposes, tolerance can result in reduced symptomatic relief. They then need a higher dose that may be accompanied by side effects.

Recognizing tolerance to cannabis is important to promote responsible use and minimize potential negative consequences. Users should be aware of the symptoms and signs of tolerance and, if necessary, seek professional advice to evaluate and adjust their consumption patterns.

Tolerance for cannabis

Recovering from cannabis tolerance

There are several strategies for dealing with this tolerance and maintaining the desired effect.

Tolerance breaks

A common approach is to take tolerance breaks, or a period of abstinence. This involves stopping consuming cannabis for a period of time, often two weeks. During this thc tolerance reset, your body has a chance to recover and reduce tolerance.

However, it can be difficult to make these breaks of a period, especially if cannabis is an integral part of your daily life. It may help to seek distractions or find new hobbies to make the break easier.

Adjust consumption

Another strategy is to adjust your consumption pattern or type of cannabis. This may mean consuming less frequently or using lower doses. By reducing the frequency or amount, you can slow the buildup of tolerance. It is important to experiment and find what works best for you, as everyone reacts differently to cannabis.

Awareness

In addition to these strategies, it is also important to stay aware of your consumption. Make sure you use good quality cannabis and avoid overuse. Listen to your body and watch for signs of tolerance buildup, such as needing larger amounts to achieve the same effect.

Finally, it is wise to remember that tolerance is a natural part of using cannabis and that it is not necessarily a negative development. However, it can affect your experience, so it is important to stay aware and use strategies to deal with it. With the right approach, you can still enjoy the benefits of cannabis without tolerance being a hindrance.

Long-term effects of cannabis tolerance

Long-term tolerance to THC can have several negative long-term effects on both an individual’s health and well-being. Mental aspects can be affected, including cognitive functions such as memory, concentration and learning performance. 

Emotionally, long-term tolerance can lead to mood disorders, including depression and anxiety, due to disruptions in the regulation of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

Physical effects can also occur, such as an increased risk of respiratory problems from smoking pot, and possible damage to the lungs similar to that caused by tobacco smoke. Long-term tolerance can also lead to dependence and addiction, which can have further negative effects on both physical and mental health.

The debate over the impact of long-term cannabis tolerance is constantly evolving, with some studies suggesting that the effects may be mild, while others point to serious consequences. 

It is important for individuals to be aware of the potential risks and use cannabis wisely to minimize potential long-term effects and maintain overall health and well-being.

Drop by the Border

Weed tolerance develops after long-term use, causing users to need more for the same effect. At The Border, we offer a variety of cannabis products for different needs. Visit our store for high-quality cannabis products and advice. Explore our assortment and experience the quality for yourself!