Expert Answers to 5 FAQs About Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Cannabis is widely used for both medical and recreational purposes. Many people consume it without experiencing major side effects. But cannabis isn’t risk-free. In some cases, it can have serious effects on mental health.

One rare but important condition to know about is cannabis-induced psychosis (CIP). Understanding what CIP is, who’s at a higher risk, and when to seek help can help keep you safe. Below are pharmacist-backed answers to five common questions about CIP.

1. What is cannabis-induced psychosis?

Psychosis is a term for a group of symptoms that affect how the brain processes reality. People experiencing psychosis may have trouble telling what’s real and what isn’t.

CIP happens when psychotic symptoms develop after consuming cannabis. These symptoms can happen after consuming cannabis in any form. This includes smoking cannabis, eating cannabis-infused foods, or inhaling concentrates that are high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known as dabbing. 

There are two major types of CIP:

• Short-term psychosis: With short-term CIP, symptoms improve after the effects of cannabis wear off. It’s often caused by too much THC in the body. THC affects parts of the brain involved in thinking, perception, and mood. If THC levels become very high, it can temporarily disrupt how the brain processes reality. In most cases, those experiencing short-term symptoms remain aware that they are under the influence of cannabis.

• Long-lasting psychosis: With this type of CIP, psychotic symptoms persist even after the acute effects of cannabis wear off. An episode may last weeks or longer and require medical treatment. Symptoms may resolve over time if you stop consuming cannabis. But a transition into a psychotic disorder, such as schizophrenia, can also occur. This type of CIP isn’t common. And it isn’t fully clear whether it’s caused by cannabis alone or if other risk factors play a role.      

2. What are the symptoms of cannabis-induced psychosis?

CIP symptoms may include:

• Hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there)

• Delusions (strong beliefs that aren’t based in reality)

• Paranoia or extreme fear that others want to harm you

• Confused or disorganized thinking

• Agitation or unusual behavior

• Trouble speaking or communicating clearly

• Emotional lability (rapid mood changes)

CIP symptoms typically resolve on their own after you stop consuming cannabis and its effects wear off. But you’re more likely to experience them again if you continue to consume cannabis after the first instance of CIP. It’s best to stop consuming cannabis if you experience psychosis-related symptoms unless a healthcare professional recommends otherwise.

3. Who’s at the greatest risk of experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis?

Research suggests that the risk of CIP may be higher for people who:

• Consume high-potency THC products or large doses of THC

• Start using cannabis regularly at a young age, especially during adolescence 

• Have a personal or family history of psychotic disorders

• Have genetic differences that can affect brain chemistry

You can reduce your risk of experiencing CIP by sticking with low doses of THC and avoiding potent concentrates. It’s also a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional who’s experienced with cannabis, especially if you’re using it to treat a health-related symptom. Children and adolescents should avoid cannabis unless it’s recommended by a healthcare professional for a specific condition.  

4. Does cannabis raise your risk of developing schizophrenia?

We don’t know for sure if cannabis raises the risk of developing schizophrenia. Scientists have studied the connection between cannabis and schizophrenia for decades. Research suggests cannabis doesn't increase most people’s risk of developing schizophrenia. But it may increase the risk in people who have certain vulnerabilities, such as genetic risk factors or a family history of psychotic disorders. And THC can worsen schizophrenia symptoms in those living with the mental health condition.

There’s also evidence that consuming cannabis frequently during adolescence can cause brain changes that directly lead to developing schizophrenia later in life.

Experts agree the relationship between cannabis and schizophrenia is complex. Studies are ongoing to better understand this relationship.

5. What should you do if you’re experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis?

Psychosis is a serious mental health condition that requires professional care. If you or someone around you experiences hallucinations, delusions, or severe paranoia after consuming cannabis, seek medical help as soon as possible. This is especially true if there’s a lack of understanding about what’s going on or a risk of self-harm or harm to others.

If you experience persistent symptoms, be sure to follow up with a mental health professional. They can help determine whether you’re experiencing CIP or if your symptoms are more likely related to schizophrenia or another mental health condition. Organizations such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) can help you find mental health treatment programs near you.  

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Written by:

Reyan Schroter, PharmD

Reyan Schroter, Pharm.D., is a seasoned pharmacist with 13 years of experience. She began her career at ACME Markets, where her dedication and professionalism quickly propelled her to the position of manager.

Edited by:

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky and is licensed in New York and Massachusetts.

Reviewed by:

Christina Palmer, MD

Christina Palmer, MD, is a board-certified family physician with a focus on chronic care management, women’s health, and mental health. She’s the co-author of the book, “Open Heart: When Open-Heart Surgery Becomes Your Best Option”.

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