Reducing the harm

The Drug Foundation’s message is clear: no drug use is the safest drug use. However, we know there will be occasions when people ignore warnings and use drugs in a dangerous manner. To help keep communities safe we therefore provide information about proven methods of drug harm reduction.

There is growing evidence that cannabis use, especially long-term and heavy use, causes harm to the brain and affects mental health. If users wish to reduce the risks of neurological and psychological harm they should only use cannabis ocasionally.

People who have a history of, or pre-disposition to, mental illness risk harm to themselves if they use cannabis, and should avoid cannabis use altogether.

Do not use cannabis and then drive or operate machinery. Cannabis impairs reaction times and hinders concentration, significantly increasing the risk of an accident.

Combining cannabis and alcohol compounds the effects of both drugs. The effects can be unpredictable and can lead to nausea, vomiting, anxiety and panic attacks. Vulnerable users also put themselves at greater risk of experiencing psychotic symptoms when combining cannabis and alcohol. The compounding effect of these two drugs also increases the risk of ‘greening out’.

If someone is having a bad reaction to cannabis – or ‘greening out’ – they may look pale and sweaty, feel dizzy and nauseous, and may begin to vomit.

The best way to help is to take them to a quiet place with fresh air. Sit them in a comfortable position, and give them water or something sweet to drink (not alcohol). 

If they begin to vomit, stay with them. Never leave them alone. Lay them on their side so they do not choke on their vomit. Keep them in a safe spot until they begin to feel better. If they do not improve or their condition worsens, call 111 for an ambulance.