Alcohol and THC: What Happens When You Mix Them?

Combining alcohol and THC (the active ingredient in cannabis) is becoming more common, but have you ever wondered how these two substances interact in your body? Mixing them can lead to some unexpected and even intensified effects. Let’s dive into the fun—and sometimes tricky—world of alcohol and THC interaction.

Why Mixing Feels Stronger

When you consume alcohol and THC together, things can get a little wild. Alcohol actually boosts the absorption of THC into your bloodstream, meaning you feel the effects more intensely and more quickly than if you had only consumed THC. So that one drink followed by a THC-infused drink might hit harder than you expected. Studies have shown that alcohol increases THC blood levels, making the high last longer and feel stronger than usual.

Double Trouble for Your Motor Skills

Both alcohol and THC mess with your coordination, and combining them can make things even trickier. If you’ve ever felt a bit wobbly after a few drinks, imagine adding THC to the mix. The result? Even worse reaction times and decision-making abilities. That’s why experts strongly advise against driving or performing any task requiring quick reflexes when you’ve mixed the two (or have had either one separately for that matter). One study even showed that driving under the influence of both alcohol and THC leads to significantly worse performance compared to using either alone.

The Mental Rollercoaster

Psychologically, alcohol can relax you, while THC can enhance sensory experiences—or sometimes increase anxiety. Mixing the two can either make you feel euphoric or intensify feelings of paranoia and discomfort, especially if you overdo it. You may end up feeling a little too “in the zone” or, conversely, dizzy and nauseated. This is where the infamous “green out” can happen—a mix of dizziness, nausea, and anxiety from too much THC.

The Bottom Line

While it can seem fun to mix alcohol and THC, the combo can lead to some unexpected effects. If you decide to try it, start slow, and be mindful of how much you’re consuming.