Everything to Know About Mixing Cannabis and Alcohol

There’s nothing better than taking a hit from a joint after a long day, and there’s nothing better than having a few beers after a long day, but what happens when you mix weed and alcohol? You might be wondering: “Is it safe for me to use cannabis products and drink on the same night?” That’s a good question, and it’s likely that you have even more questions about cannabis and alcohol. Here is what to know about the risks of mixing alcohol and weed.

The Basics of Mixing Weed and Alcohol

If you’re familiar with weed and alcohol at all, it’s probable that you’ve heard of the term “crossfading,” which simply means you’re under the influence of alcohol and weed at the same time. Being crossfaded carries extra risks, and you should never drive or operate heavy machinery while crossfaded. These are some things that could possibly happen when you mix alcohol and weed:

You Might Green Out

When you green out, it simply means that you’re experiencing a high that’s so intense, to the point that you’re experiencing severe physical symptoms. These symptoms might include things like sweating, dizziness, vomiting, and feelings of nausea. Green outs are not the most pleasant phenomenon, and you’re at a higher risk of experiencing one if you’ve mixed alcohol and weed.

Your High Can Be Stronger

Even if you don’t green out, alcohol can make a high stronger and harder to predict.

Can I Vape or Take Edibles after Drinking?

Vaping or taking edibles after drinking carries the same added risks as smoking. Edibles also kick in slowly, which makes it easy to take too much.

Can I Smoke a Joint After Drinking Six Beers?

Mixing cannabis with six beers raises the risk of feeling sick or badly impaired, because alcohol can make a high stronger. Skipping the mix is the lowest-risk choice.

Can I Take Edibles After Drinking Three Glasses of Wine?

Edibles after three glasses of wine raise the same risks, and the risk is higher if you have never had cannabis before. Skipping the mix is the lowest-risk choice.

Does It Matter How I Mix My Weed and Alcohol?

Drinking before using cannabis can make the high stronger. Less is known about using cannabis first and then drinking, so either order carries risk.

Things to Keep in Mind When Mixing Weed and Alcohol

Never drive after drinking or using cannabis. If you take medications, ask a doctor or pharmacist about interactions.

What Do I Do If I Have an Adverse Reaction?

In the case that you do have an adverse reaction to mixing alcohol and weed, it is important that you know how to react to the situation. Here are some things that you should do, if you have a reaction while smoking weed and drinking alcohol:

• Always stay calm: The calmer you are, the better it will be. If you get anxious or have a reaction while smoking and drinking, your panic will only increase if you don’t try to calm down.
• Drink lots of water: Staying hydrated will help with your reaction, especially if you have been drinking a lot of alcohol.
• Have a snack: Try to have a quick bite to eat if you feel like you’re responding negatively to your weed and alcohol. Something filling can help you feel steadier.
• Get help if it is serious: Call emergency services for chest pain, trouble breathing, or severe confusion.

Mixing Cannabis and Alcohol: The Bottom Line

Mixing cannabis and alcohol adds risk, and skipping the mix is the lowest-risk choice. If you are with friends, look out for each other. For more information about cannabis and alcohol, contact us.

Related reading: 13 Factors That Affect Your Weed High (Why the Same Strain Feels Different), From Stoned to Sober: How to Come Down From Edibles, Weed Hangover: Causes, Signs and How to Avoid It and What is THC and How It Affects You.