Understanding Weed Shakes: Causes and Prevention Tips

If you’ve ever used cannabis, you’re likely familiar with some common side effects like dry mouth (often called “cotton mouth”) and increased appetite, or the “munchies.” While cravings for pizza and snacks might be inconvenient, they generally don’t raise any serious medical concerns.

But what about involuntary shaking or tremors after consuming cannabis? Some anecdotal accounts report that for certain users, getting high can trigger spontaneous muscle twitches—sometimes amusing, other times unsettling.

There are several straightforward factors that might explain this unusual reaction.

Why Do I Shake When I’m High? What are Weed Shakes?

The exact reason why cannabis use might lead to tremor-like movements remains unclear. Current research focuses more on the therapeutic potential of cannabis for treating tremors associated with conditions like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, while studies investigating whether cannabis can actually induce tremors are still limited.

Anecdotal reports on platforms like Reddit indicate that cannabis-induced shakes aren’t exclusive to smoking—they can also occur after consuming edibles.

Several factors might contribute to these “weed shakes.” “Some individuals experience shakes with regular cannabis use, but the underlying causes can vary widely,” explains Joey DiFrancesco, President and Founder of Lolahemp.

One common reason for these shakes is feeling cold. When our body temperature drops, we naturally shiver or shake. THC, a primary cannabinoid in cannabis, has been shown to lower body temperature—a phenomenon observed in both animal studies and human reports.

While severe THC-induced hypothermia is extremely rare in humans, cannabis often reduces basal body temperature, which can trigger shivering and shaking. Researchers believe this effect may be linked to how cannabis influences nitric oxide levels, which play a role in regulating body temperature responses to cannabinoids.

Too Much THC

One major factor that can increase the likelihood of experiencing “weed shakes” is consuming too much THC. Cannabis strains with high THC concentrations can cause both novice and sometimes experienced users to feel jittery and shaky. Overconsumption may also trigger intense psychoactive effects, including feelings of paranoia.

When smoking or vaping, it’s advisable to take a single hit and wait 10 to 15 minutes to gauge how you feel before taking another. Multiple hits in quick succession can overload your system with THC, potentially leading to shaking. The same principle applies to edibles, where THC is metabolized by the liver into the potent 11-Hydroxy-THC, which can linger longer in the body than inhaled cannabis. Although it remains unclear if these THC metabolites directly cause shaking, caution with dosing is essential.

Some users suggest that specific cannabis strains or cultivars may influence the likelihood of shakes. Sativa strains, for instance, are often associated with a cerebral, energetic high that can provoke jitters, while indica strains are typically known for their calming, body-focused effects. However, this classic indica/sativa distinction is increasingly viewed as overly simplistic. Current thinking emphasizes that the unique combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in each strain is a better predictor of the user’s experience.

Anxiety or Nervousness

Like feeling cold, anxiety and nervousness can also cause trembling or shaking. It’s well-documented that cannabis, especially at higher doses, can induce anxiety or paranoia in some individuals. Research in human populations has shown that elevated THC consumption is frequently followed by heightened anxiety, challenging the common perception that marijuana is always relaxing or mellowing.

Overstimulation from Combining Substances

Using cannabis in combination with other stimulants can also contribute to unwanted twitching or jitteriness. “One of the most common causes of weed shakes after consuming cannabis is overstimulation,” explains Erin Zadoorian, CEO and Executive Editor at the Ministry of Hemp. “This often happens when cannabis is used alongside substances like tobacco or caffeine.”

When cannabis is mixed with tobacco in a joint, for instance, the central nervous system (CNS) receives an added stimulant effect. Both cannabis and tobacco influence this crucial system, which contains receptors for cannabinoids and nicotine.

Similarly, caffeine from coffee, black tea, and other caffeinated drinks acts as a CNS stimulant and may amplify overstimulation, potentially leading to involuntary tremors or shaking. “Remember, cannabis alone can be stimulating. When combined with other stimulants like tobacco and caffeine, overstimulation is more likely,” warns Erin Zadoorian.

Low Blood Sugar

Although not extensively studied clinically, shaking might also be linked to low blood sugar levels. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in regulating glucose balance, and cannabinoid receptors located on muscles contribute to this regulation.

Interestingly, despite cannabis users often experiencing increased appetite or “the munchies,” research has shown that marijuana smokers tend to have smaller waistlines and lower obesity rates. One study found that current marijuana users displayed greater insulin sensitivity and produced less insulin compared to non-users of high-THC cannabis.

How Long Do Weed Shakes Last?

For those who have smoked or vaped cannabis, the shaking typically subsides within 30 minutes. However, if edibles were consumed, tremors may persist for several hours.

The duration and intensity of shaking are influenced by the dose and THC concentration of the cannabis consumed. Higher doses or more potent strains may extend the trembling period. Since THC metabolism varies widely between individuals, these timelines are approximate.

How to Stop Weed Shakes

Several strategies may help reduce or alleviate weed shakes:

Keep Warm

Since THC can lower body temperature and cause shivering, wrapping yourself in warm clothing is a simple and effective remedy. Staying calm also helps. Joey DiFrancesco advises, “The best way to manage weed shakes is to remain calm, keep warm, and consider reducing or stopping cannabis use if the shaking becomes overwhelming.”

Take Deep Breaths

If anxiety or shakiness sets in, focus on slow, deep breathing to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This “rest and digest” mode counteracts the body’s fight-or-flight response and promotes relaxation. Listening to soothing music can also help distract your mind and ease physical symptoms.

Limit Other Stimulants

Reducing or avoiding additional stimulants can be crucial in preventing cannabis-induced shakes. “If your shaking is due to overstimulation, it’s best to cut back on other stimulants,” advises Erin Zadoorian. “Avoid tobacco, coffee, and caffeinated teas.”

Consider Using CBD Products

CBD might offer significant relief from tremors. It is known to counteract some of the negative side effects associated with high THC intake, including anxiety and impaired motor function.

Taking a few drops of CBD tincture sublingually (under the tongue) may help soothe cannabis-induced shaking. “I recommend using CBD because it can mitigate some of THC’s effects,” says Zadoorian. “Be sure to choose a CBD isolate to avoid introducing additional THC into your system.”