‘Weed Shakes’ Explained: Why They Happen and What to Do About Them
Ever felt your body trembling after smoking weed? Those sudden tremors — known as weed shakes or cannabis shakes — are fairly rare and usually short-lived. They’re brief, involuntary muscle spasms that can occur after consuming marijuana, most often when the body is overloaded with THC. While the sensation can feel unsettling, weed shakes are harmless and pass quickly. Here’s everything you need to know about this uncommon cannabis side effect and how to handle it if it ever happens.
Weed Shakes, What Are They? Are They For Real?
Weed shakes are short-lived tremors or shivers that may affect both new and seasoned cannabis users. But there isn’t so much to worry about. There are small chances that they will ever happen with sensible cannabis use. If they do, take a note that your body has been overwhelmed by THC.
You might experience weed shakes after you’ve consumed a bit too much cannabis, such as when you lie down in your bed after a heavy smoke session. Alcohol, nicotine or caffeine intake can contribute to the unusual reaction. The sensation can feel similar to chills from a fever — uncomfortable but temporary.
What Causes Weed Shakes?
There isn’t a single cause behind weed shakes — it’s usually a combination of factors. The main trigger is too much THC, which can overstimulate cannabinoid receptors in your body and nervous system. This can lead to muscle tremors, anxiety, increased heart rate, or even mild paranoia.
Here are some possible explanations why you might experience cannabis shakes:
- Using high-THC strains or concentrates
- Mixing weed with alcohol or nicotine
- Consuming edibles or other potent products that hit later and stronger
- Low blood sugar (smoking without eating)
- Cold environments and/or THC-related body temperature drops
- Stress or anxiety amplifying physical sensations
Essentially, weed shakes are your body’s way of saying, “That’s enough for now.”
How Long Do Weed Shakes Last?
The good news: they don’t last long. Weed shakes typically subside within a few minutes to half an hour. How long they linger depends on your THC intake, metabolism, and environment.
To help your body recover faster:
- Stay hydrated — drink water and let your body flush out excess THC.
- Avoid more stimulants like caffeine, nicotine, or a new round of weed.
- Warm up — wrap yourself in a blanket if you feel cold.
- Move gently — stretch, walk around, or change position.
- Stay calm — deep breathing, soft ambient music, or pet cuddles can ease anxiety.
Remember: the more you relax, the sooner the shakes fade away.
Are Weed Shakes Dangerous?
In most cases, no — weed shakes aren’t dangerous. They’re a mild, short-lived side effect that signals you’ve had more THC than your body could handle. For healthy users, there’s no reason for concern.
In case you experience severe shaking, panic attacks or shortness of breath, which would be extremely rare, you may need to seek medical attention immediately.
Is There Any Research About It?
While usually brief and harmless, cannabis shakes are the body’s physical response to an overstimulated nervous system. Some studies explore how cannabis may help treat tremors in conditions like Parkinson’s, but far fewer examine its potential to cause them.
More research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind cannabis-induced tremors, as most existing studies focus on its therapeutic rather than adverse effects.
How to Avoid Weed Shakes
Weed shakes are harmless but unpleasant. The best way to prevent them is simple:
- Start low and go slow with THC-heavy products.
- Don’t mix weed with alcohol or energy drinks.
- Eat before or during your session.
- Know your limits and listen to your body.
If the shakes happen, don’t panic — they’re temporary and a gentle reminder to take it easy next time.
The Bottom Line
Weed shakes are a very rare and temporary side effect of using cannabis. While they can be uncomfortable, they’re almost never serious and typically resolve within minutes. The best approach? Stay calm, hydrate, and remember that it’ll pass.
If you experience weed shakes more than once, it might be a sign to adjust your dose or choose a lower-THC strain that suits your tolerance better.
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Stephen Andrews
