Causes and Prevention Tips

Written by: Bartholomew Alen by Grow Island

Scared by cannabis-induced shaking? No need to worry – in almost every case, trembling after smoking cannabis is a harmless reaction to the side effects of the plant’s active compounds. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the phenomenon so you can learn what cannabis shakes are, why they occur and how you can avoid them.

Many of us have experienced this: you take a hit from a joint or bong and minutes later you notice your hand or another body part trembling. But why do you shake when high? In most cases, “weed shakes” are an unpleasant but harmless phenomenon that disappears as the high fades. So if you’re currently high and shaking, relax: the shaking is usually simply caused by consuming too much THC, which can overload your system and trigger anxiety.

Sometimes the conditions of consumption can also trigger cannabis shakes – for example, a loud, crowded party or a cold environment. Read on to learn everything about the phenomenon of weed shakes, why they happen, and how to handle them if they catch you.

What Are Cannabis Shakes?

Cannabis shakes are involuntary muscle twitches or tremors occurring immediately after smoking cannabis. While many associate the phenomenon with drug scenes in movies like Trainspotting, cannabis-induced shaking is generally harmless and merely a reaction to consuming too much THC. It most often occurs in beginner users or those with low cannabis tolerance, but experienced users can also experience it when trying new, more intense consumption methods (e.g., dabbing or edibles).

Although undoubtedly uncomfortable, shaking during intoxication is usually short-lived and not dangerous by itself. The phenomenon most often quickly passes as you calm down and the THC leaves your system.

Why Do You Shake After Using Cannabis?

Stop guessing – here are four (+1) main causes of cannabis shakes:

Lower Body Temperature

The endocannabinoid system is a complex signaling network responsible, among other things, for regulating body temperature. Animal studies have shown that phytocannabinoids – such as THC – in high doses can lower body temperature, although the risk of “THC-induced hypothermia” is often exaggerated. Significant temperature drops were only observed with extremely high doses (e.g., in mice at about 8 mg per kg body weight)^[1]. These same mice also showed reduced motor activity at high doses – not surprising for anyone who has ever been “glued to the couch.” The studies also revealed that THC temporarily lowers brain and muscle temperature. This drop in basal body temperature can cause cannabis shakes – especially if you are already in a cold environment or prone to feeling chilly.

Overstimulation

Cannabis significantly affects our senses. It influences smell and sight and can enhance the musical experience. Many consumers report that weed also increases sensitivity to touch. As a result, under the influence of marijuana, we are generally more receptive to external stimuli – which is ideal if you want to deeply experience an activity or connection. However, the increased sensitivity can easily overwhelm the nervous system, causing shaking or nervousness. You have probably experienced this if you smoked in a highly stimulating environment, such as a concert, club or crowded house party. Moreover, in many places it’s common to mix weed with tobacco – nicotine is a known stimulant that further increases the chances of overstimulation. If you are not accustomed to tobacco, the nicotine + THC combination can cause a strong head rush, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, and ultimately shaking.

Anxiety

Cannabis and anxiety have a complex relationship. Some people relax with a few puffs after a stressful day, while others experience tormenting anxiety or panic attacks from the same cannabis use, trembling literally with fear. This mostly depends on individual THC sensitivity or tolerance. THC binds to the brain’s CB1 receptors – mimicking our own endocannabinoids (anandamide, 2-AG) – and triggers dopamine release, creating feelings of pleasure and reward. At the same time, THC also affects activity in the amygdala – the brain area responsible for processing fears and perceiving threats. At low to moderate doses, THC seems to reduce threat perception, calming the amygdala^[2]. At high doses, however, it can cause the opposite: overactivation of some parts of the amygdala, generating anxiety^[3]. Furthermore, some research suggests that long-term cannabis use may lead to a reduction of cannabinoid receptors in the amygdala, generally increasing susceptibility to anxiety^[4].

Too Much THC

Returning to the original question – is the shaking really just a side effect of having gone too high? Often yes. We’ve all been there: taking one hit too many and the pleasant high suddenly turning into “Tito, the anxiety mosquito” biting unpleasantly. Nobody has ever died solely from cannabis overdose^[5], but feeling too high can definitely make you feel very bad – especially if you embarrass yourself in front of others because of it. Of course, the method of consumption also plays a role: some people can smoke for hours and stay calm as a gecko, while for others an extra puff is enough to turn chill into panic. Stronger intake forms – such as edibles or dabs – can easily knock even experienced users down because they deliver a lot of THC at once. No matter how experienced you are, it’s wise to be cautious when trying an extremely potent flower, edible, or concentrate for the first time. After all, we consume to feel good – not to wreck ourselves!

Low Blood Sugar

It’s worth mentioning that trembling can sometimes be caused by a drop in blood sugar levels. Cannabis affects metabolism and increases appetite, so if you consume on an empty stomach, your blood sugar can easily crash, which is known to cause trembling. A balanced meal before consumption can greatly help prevent this symptom – more on that in the prevention section.

Is Cannabis-Induced Shaking Dangerous?

Worried because you’re shaking from weed? We understand it can be scary, but relax – in most cases, cannabis shaking is harmless and the trembling stops as you calm down and the high fades. Generally, it is not considered dangerous if you feel cold and shaky while high – especially if you are young and healthy.

You should only worry if the shaking is accompanied by more serious symptoms, such as:

• Severe chest pain or extremely rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Hallucinations, paranoia, or delusions
• Fainting (loss of consciousness)
• Memory loss
• Significant impairment of cognitive or motor functions

If you experience these, the shaking may be a symptom of a health issue triggered or worsened by cannabis. Again, we are not doctors and this article does not constitute medical advice. If you are worried about your health due to shaking or other symptoms during cannabis use, please consult a doctor for proper evaluation.

What Can You Do If Cannabis Shaking Catches You?

Time is your best friend when you get “weed jitters” – the main thing you can do is wait for it to pass. But cannabis shaking can be scary and unpleasant, so it’s understandable if you don’t want to wait idly. Here are some tips to calm yourself and reduce shaking when you’ve had too much:

Adjust Your Environment

As mentioned, cannabis significantly affects your senses, so small environmental changes can make a big difference. If you feel nervous or shaky while high, try altering your environment for a more pleasant experience. Consider:

• Music: Play music you love that soothes or uplifts you – there’s no universal recipe, the important thing is that you like it.
• Lighting: Lighting seriously affects our mood. Sometimes a softer, warmer light helps you relax, other times a bit of brighter light refreshes you. Find what works for you when high.
• Company: Some love socializing while smoking, others prefer a more introspective experience. Think about how you feel best: being alone, with a close friend or at a party? Next time, adjust your session accordingly.

Movement, Distraction, Breathing

Feeling the shakes? Try to relieve them with some movement and breathing exercises. As mentioned, high doses of cannabis can reduce spontaneous movement and body temperature. Stand up, stretch, move a little – light physical activity warms your body and distracts you from discomfort. Take several deep breaths – breathing exercises help get more oxygen into your bloodstream, which calms your body. Sometimes light exercise not only stops the shaking but also enhances the high! Try yoga, stretching, walking or play a simple game (like tossing a ball or ping pong). You’ll be surprised how much better you feel.

Avoid Stimulants

As a general rule, we advise not to mix weed with other substances, as the combined effect can become too intense. Especially stimulants don’t go well with cannabis – especially if your body is not used to them. Nicotine, caffeine, or energy drinks can rapidly stimulate your system, which mixed with the weed’s euphoria may increase anxiety and shaking. Alcohol is also not a good idea: although it’s a depressant, drinking and smoking often lead to chaotic, intense intoxication for many. If you want to combine cannabis with something, try these instead:

• Caffeine-free drinks: e.g. decaf coffee or mushroom/herbal coffee alternatives (chicory, maca, etc.), herbal teas.
• Sweet drinks and snacks: such as fruit juices or smoothies – these don’t stimulate but feel good when high.
• Nicotine-free tobacco substitutes: if you like joints, mix weed with herbal tobacco substitute to avoid nicotine effects.

Switch Strain

If you regularly experience shaking from the same strain, consider trying a different cannabis variety. Some get overstimulated and anxious with energetic, euphoric strains, while others are overwhelmed by warm, physically heavy effects (so-called “couch-lock”). Traditionally, people try to predict effects based on indica or sativa labels, but today we know these classifications say little about the actual experience – they mostly refer to plant genetics and morphology. Instead, pay attention to chemical composition: cannabinoid (especially THC/CBD ratio) and terpene profile matter much more. If high-THC strains regularly knock you out, look for more balanced genetics – ones with more calming components (CBD, CBG, or THCV). Experiment freely; there are many options! For example, here are some genetics we offer that may provide a more balanced, pleasant high:

• Illuminati Lost Seeds – Mr. Blunti: A special hybrid (~23% THC) containing 60% indica and 40% sativa. Its terpene profile rich in limonene and myrcene gives a fresh lemon aroma, and its effect is euphoric, mentally stimulating yet stress-relieving. Ideal for those seeking an uplifting but not overly energetic high.
• Illuminati Lost Seeds – Wasen Brezer: A wild sativa-dominant (80% sativa) hybrid (~23% THC) with exotic genetics. Its flavor blends banana and strawberry notes in a tropical fruit cocktail, giving a deeply relaxing yet creative euphoric effect. Good choice if you’re prone to anxiety but want a happy, creative high.
• Marshmallow OG clone: A popular indica-leaning hybrid clone derived from Chemdog × Triangle OG × Jet Fuel Gelato genetics. Named for its sweet marshmallow aroma. THC level ~20%, effect balanced: euphoric and relaxing but not overly sedating. Ideal for evening relaxation without feeling “hungover” the next day.
• Studio 54 clone (Deep East Farms × Doja Pak cut): An exclusive balanced hybrid clone resulting from Sunset Sherbert × OZ Kush #54 cross. Terpene profile fruity-candy with gassy notes, main terpene myrcene. THC content ~18–22%, effect both relaxing and uplifting – neither too stimulating nor heavy. Worth trying if you want a balanced high with exotic flavors.

CBD as an Alternative

Another great trick against cannabis shakes is taking CBD. Studies show that certain cannabinoids, like CBD or THCV, can reduce THC’s intoxicating effects. Specifically, CBD has been shown to act as a CB1 receptor antagonist in the presence of THC – meaning it blocks THC from exerting its full effect. Thus, CBD can moderate THC’s strength and potency, even dampening the effect of our own endocannabinoid (anandamide)^[6]. If you tend to shake when high, take some CBD when you smoke. CBD oil or gummies are easy to dose, and a CBD vape pen can also provide quick relief if you want fast results.

How Long Does Cannabis-Induced Shaking Last?

Fortunately, cannabis-induced shaking doesn’t last long. The exact duration depends on how much you consumed and how. After smoking or vaping, effects come on quickly, so if you’ve taken a few too many hits and start shaking, you should feel better within 15–30 minutes. With THC consumed in edible form, the effect develops more slowly but lasts longer. A space cake or cannabis edible usually kicks in after 40–60 minutes, and the high can last for hours, so if you overdid the dose, the shaking may persist for hours.

How to get through this time? The most important thing is to find the right dose, especially with edibles – always start cautiously because it’s easier to take more later than to “take back” too strong a dose. If you’re already deep into an edible trip and feel shaking, try:

• Taking some fast-acting CBD (vaping or sublingual oil).
• Drinking water to stay hydrated.
• Creating a calming environment (e.g., lying down in bed, turning off distracting stimuli).
• Asking for help from a sober person – sometimes having a good friend nearby is enough to calm you down.
• Reminding yourself that everything will be fine – the shaking will soon pass, it just needs time.

How to Prevent Cannabis Shaking?

It’s good to know how to ease shaking, but even better to avoid it altogether. Of course, everyone is different – cannabis affects each person differently depending on individual sensitivity and circumstances. Nonetheless, the following tips can help prevent unpleasant shaking and ensure you enjoy only the good effects.

Moderation: Less Is Sometimes More

We cannot emphasize enough: the quality of your cannabis experience largely depends on how much you consume. Finding the right dose is key, especially if you’re a beginner or prone to side effects like shaking. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all rule as THC tolerance and sensitivity vary widely. The key: start with a small amount and slowly increase until you find your ideal level. If you’ve taken a break and come back to cannabis, it’s wise to reduce your dose initially. You can always smoke or eat more if you feel the effect is too weak – but once there is too much THC in your system, only time will help to clear it. Remember where your comfort zone lies and stick to it. If unpleasant side effects (shaking, anxiety, etc.) occur regularly, it may be a sign that you’re using too strong doses or are especially sensitive – so moderation is even more important.

Mindful Consumption

Observe how and when you usually consume, and try to bring mindfulness to it. Don’t just light up carelessly at any time; plan your sessions a bit in advance. Take care of important tasks beforehand, choose a pleasant place and time, prepare snacks, drinks, and music ahead – this way, you’ll have a calmer and more predictable experience. Also, avoid cannabis on days or times when you know you’ll also drink coffee or be exposed to many stimulants (e.g., don’t light up right after an afternoon double espresso). Don’t mix with alcohol if you know it makes you feel bad. The goal is to consume cannabis when you can truly enjoy it, not out of habit or routine. This helps you pay attention to your body’s signals and avoid overconsumption.

Choosing the Right Strain

One of the best ways to avoid unpleasant experiences like shaking is to choose your cannabis strain wisely. Don’t fall for oversimplified categories – knowing only “this is indica, this is sativa” is not enough. As mentioned before, look at THC and CBD ratios, and if you’re prone to bad trips, don’t pick the strongest flower with 25%+ THC first. You might be better off with a balanced THC:CBD hybrid or a strain with a bit of THCV or CBG (these minor cannabinoids can help counteract THC’s effects). Don’t forget about terpenes: for example, myrcene and linalool are considered more calming and relaxing terpenes, while limonene can be uplifting and pinene can provide a clear, focused high. If one strain consistently causes problems, feel free to look for another – there are so many options that you will surely find one that makes you feel good! (We also recommended some from our own selection above.)

Preparation for Consumption

Last but not least: prepare your body for cannabis. This doesn’t require much effort – drink enough water and don’t smoke on an empty stomach! Getting high while dehydrated and hungry greatly increases your chances of a bad experience. A healthy snack or fruit before can do wonders: it stabilizes your blood sugar, reducing shaking or nausea. Hydration is fundamental – water helps your body process THC and prevents unpleasant “dry mouth” and dehydration symptoms. Paying attention to these little things will ensure a more balanced and enjoyable experience from lighting your joint all the way to comedown.

FAQ About Cannabis Shakes

• Can moldy or old weed cause shaking? – It is not typical for moldy or old weed to directly cause shaking. However, do not consume spoiled weed – it will be less potent, and inhaling mold spores and toxins poses health risks. If you did consume such material, your shaking is more likely due to anxiety or your body’s natural reaction to contaminants, not the mold itself.
• Are certain consumption methods more likely to cause shaking? – Yes, higher intake methods are more likely to cause it. Edibles or dabs deliver a higher dose of THC quickly, making it easier to overdo and increasing the likelihood and duration of shaking. Traditional joints or vaping allow more control – you feel the effects within minutes and can stop before using too much. Always listen to your body’s signals and choose a method that lets you dose safely.
• How does CBD help with cannabis shaking? – CBD counteracts THC on multiple fronts. It has calming, anxiety-reducing properties and also binds to receptors similar to THC but acts as a blocker. Thus, CBD “takes the bite off” THC, weakening the psychoactive effect and preventing or reducing anxiety-induced shaking. Many report that a bit of CBD oil or a CBD joint works wonders when they get too high.
• Is it normal to feel cold or shiver after smoking? – Yes, it happens. Cannabis can lower your body temperature, making you more sensitive to cold. This is a normal phenomenon but doesn’t affect everyone. If you tend to get cold easily, have a warm blanket or sweater handy and avoid cold places while high. The shivering stops as the THC leaves your body.
• What is the connection between anxiety and cannabis shakes? – They are closely linked: too much THC often causes anxiety or panic, especially if you are sensitive. Your body may respond to this nervous state with shaking—similar to when you’re scared or nervous. Thus, shaking is often a sign cannabis-induced anxiety. It’s important to know this feeling and shaking are temporary; as anxiety decreases, your body calms. Next time, try smaller doses or strains with lower THC if you easily get anxious.
• Is twitching or shaking while high normal? – It’s undesirable but quite common if the effects are strong. Many have experienced mild muscle twitches or shaking when very high. If there are no severe symptoms like hallucinations, fainting, or severe chest pain, the shaking alone usually isn’t serious—it’s just a signal to slow down and be more cautious next time. If it happens regularly, consider reviewing your cannabis habits, as your body might not be compatible with cannabis in those amounts.

Footnotes

1. Behavioral and temperature effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in human-relevant doses in rats – National Library of Medicine (PMC)
2. Cannabinoid Modulation of Amygdala Reactivity to Social Signals of Threat in Humans – National Library of Medicine (PMC)
3. Acute induction of anxiety in humans by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol related to amygdalar cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptors – Scientific Reports (Nature)
4. Cannabis Targets Receptors in the Amygdala Linked to Anxiety – Psychology Today
5. Can you overdose on weed? Here’s the science. – Popular Science
6. Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules – Frontiers in Pharmacology

External Sources

• Behavioral and temperature effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in human-relevant doses in rats – National Library of Medicine (PMC)
• Cannabinoid Modulation of Amygdala Reactivity to Social Signals of Threat in Humans – National Library of Medicine (PMC)
• Acute induction of anxiety in humans by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol related to amygdalar cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptors – Scientific Reports (Nature)
• Cannabis Targets Receptors in the Amygdala Linked to Anxiety – Psychology Today
• Can you overdose on weed? Here’s the science. – Popular Science
• Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules – Frontiers in Pharmacology