A diagnosis of cannabis or marijuana intoxication is based on a person’s recent use of cannabis (marijuana) while showing:
- Significant problematic behavioral or psychological changes (e.g., impaired motor coordination, euphoria, anxiety, sensation of slowed time, impaired judgment or social withdrawalthat developed during, or shortly after, cannabis use.
- Two or more of the following signs or symptoms developing within 32 hours of cannabis use:
- Red/bloodshot eyes
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
The signs and symptoms are not attributable to another medical condition or mental disorder, including intoxication with another substance.
Cannabis intoxication commonly heightens the user’s sensitivities to external stimuli, reveals new details, makes colors seem brighter and richer, and subjectively slows the appreciation of time. In high doses, users may experience depersonalization and derealization. Cannabis use impairs motor skills for 8 to 12 hours and can interfere with the operation of motor vehicles and other heavy machinery. The delirium associated with cannabis intoxication is characterized by marked impairment on cognition and performance tasks. Even modest doses of cannabis impair memory, reaction time, perception, motor coordination, and attention.