Are Dabs Safe? What You Need to Know About This Trend

The cannabis plant remains the most widely used federally illegal drug in the U.S., with approximately 19% of the population having used it at least once in their lifetime.

As marijuana use continues to rise, a range of new products related to marijuana are appearing, including cannabis dabs. This method involves inhaling extremely concentrated tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of marijuana.

Despite some perceptions that dabbing might be a safer alternative to traditional marijuana smoking, the process of creating these concentrates is largely unregulated, which raises concerns about health risks tied to high THC concentrations. Keep reading to explore the medical insights and risks related to cannabis dabbing.

Table Of Contents:

• What Is A Dab?
• Types of Dabs
• Why Is Dabbing Bad?
• Dabbing Side Effects and Risks
• Signs of Dabbing
• Dab Abuse and Withdrawal
• Dabbing Withdrawal Symptoms
• Find Rehab for Dabbing Near Me
• People Also Ask

What Is A Dab?

Dabbing is a relatively new method of cannabis consumption that has grown in popularity over the past few years. Unlike traditional methods such as smoking joints or consuming edibles, dabbing involves inhaling vapors from highly concentrated cannabis extracts.

The term “dabbing” comes from the process of applying a small amount—or “dab”—of cannabis concentrate to a hot surface, creating vapor that is inhaled through a specialized device like a water pipe or vaporizer. These “dabs” contain substantial amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, responsible for the euphoric experience.

Dabs can be produced in both commercial labs and at home using different methods, such as:

• Water-based processing: Involves agitating cannabis with ice water to separate trichomes.
• Dry ice processing: Uses dry ice to freeze cannabis, then sifts to collect trichomes.
• Solvent-based extraction: Chemicals like butane or ethanol are used to dissolve and extract cannabinoids.

Solvent-based methods, such as butane or propane, are hazardous as flammable solvents can lead to explosions. To date, one of the most popular forms of cannabis concentrate is butane hash oil (BHO), also known as shatter, wax, or budder, depending on its consistency.

Types of Dabs

Marijuana concentrates represent some of the most potent forms of cannabis available today, which can contain THC levels ranging from 40% to as high as 80%. In some cases, these concentrates are up to four times stronger than even the highest-grade marijuana strains.

These cannabis concentrates come in various forms, each with its unique texture, flavor profile, and potency. Here’s a closer look at the most common types of dabs and their characteristics:

Shatter

Shatter is a popular dab known for its brittle, glass-like texture. Shatter is typically amber in color and can break apart easily, much like a piece of glass, hence the name.

It is highly sought after for its high THC content, often ranging between 60% and 80%, making it one of the most potent concentrates available. Shatter melts into a thick, sticky liquid with rapid vaporization when heated.

Wax Drugs

As its name suggests, wax has a soft, sticky consistency like candle wax. This texture makes it easier to handle and scoop onto a dab tool than shatter.

Wax tends to be slightly less refined, meaning it may retain more plant material or terpenes, which can enhance its flavor. THC levels in wax typically range from 50% to 60%.

Budder

Budder has a creamy, butter-like texture. It is produced through a whipping process during extraction, resulting in a smooth, soft product. Budder retains many of the terpenes from the cannabis plant, and it usually contains around 60% to 70% THC.

Rosin

Rosin is a solvent-free concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower or hash. This process squeezes out the resinous sap, creating a pure and flavorful product that many consider safer due to the absence of chemical solvents.

Depending on how it is made, rosin can vary in consistency, from sticky and viscous to slightly more solid. THC content in rosin typically ranges from 50% to 60%.

Live Resin

Live resin is made from fresh, frozen cannabis plants that are harvested at peak ripeness and immediately frozen. This method preserves the full spectrum of terpenes, making live resin one of the most flavorful and aromatic dabs available. Its texture can range from saucy to waxy, and it contains THC levels between 60% and 80%.

Honeycomb

Honeycomb concentrate has a porous, honeycomb-like structure that is light and airy. This unique texture makes it easy to break apart and handle.

Despite its airy consistency, honeycomb is highly potent, often containing THC levels between 60% and 75%. It’s favored for its smooth vaporization and flavorful hits, offering a balanced and enjoyable dabbing experience.

Butane Hash Oil (BHO)

Butane Hash Oil, or BHO, is one of the most well-known and widely used types of dabs. It is created using a solvent-based extraction method with butane to extract THC and other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant.

The resulting product is a highly potent concentrate in various consistencies, including shatter, wax, and budder. BHO typically contains THC levels ranging from 60% to 80%, making it one of the most potent cannabis products available.

Distillate

Distillate is one of the purest forms of cannabis concentrate available, often containing up to 99% THC. The distillation removes all non-cannabinoid compounds, leaving behind an almost flavorless and odorless product.

Distillates are popular in vape cartridges but can also be dabbed. Their extreme potency makes them a favorite for users seeking the highest possible THC levels.

Why Is Dabbing Bad?

The marijuana plant contains hundreds of phytocannabinoids, but one of the highest public health concerns is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This psychoactive compound is associated with various risks, including cannabis use disorder, affective disturbances, cognitive impairment, and psychomotor issues.

As cannabis concentrates like dabs become increasingly popular, users are exposed to extremely high levels of THC, amplifying these risks. Here are some of the main concerns associated with dabbing:

High THC Concentration

Dabs contain extremely high levels of THC, often ranging between 40% and 90%, far surpassing traditional cannabis products.

While this potency can lead to a more intense high, it also increases the risk of negative side effects, such as anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and impaired judgment.

Increased Risk of Cannabis Use Disorder

As with other forms of substance use disorder, individuals can become reliant on dabbing to feel normal, resulting in withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, insomnia, and decreased appetite, when not using it.

Regular exposure to highly concentrated THC may accelerate the development of marijuana addiction compared to traditional marijuana use.

Adverse Physical and Mental Effects

The high potency of dabs can cause immediate and intense reactions in users, including nausea, vomiting, and rapid heart rate.

In some cases, users may experience hallucinations, paranoia, and heightened anxiety. Long-term, heavy dab users may face mental health issues like depression and memory loss. Some individuals may also suffer from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), which causes severe nausea and vomiting after prolonged use.

Potential for Contaminants

Dabbing often involves cannabis concentrates produced through solvent-based extraction methods, such as using butane. If not properly purged during production, traces of solvents or other harmful chemicals can remain in the concentrate, causing health risks and even death when inhaled.

Burn Risks and Explosions

Making dabs—especially using butane to create butane hash oil (BHO)—can be dangerous. Amateur extraction methods have led to explosions and fires, causing serious injuries and even fatalities.

Even during dabbing, users risk burns from handling hot tools like dab rigs and torches. The lack of regulation around the production of these concentrates means that the quality and safety can vary dramatically.

Respiratory Health Concerns

Inhaling vaporized cannabis concentrates can lead to respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing, and lung irritation.

The intense heat required for dabbing and the vapor produced can damage lung tissue over time. Some users have developed lung infections or other complications after long-term use, as the oils and waxes in dabs can accumulate in the lungs.

Rapid Onset and Intensity of Effects

When inhaled, THC enters the bloodstream rapidly via the lungs, achieving peak levels within 6 to 10 minutes and reaching the brain and various organs.

Dabbing delivers an almost immediate and intense high due to its high THC content. This rapid onset can lead to temporary physical impairments, including dizziness, confusion, and a significant drop in motor skills, increasing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Dabbing Side Effects and Risks

Smoking marijuana is known to interfere with learning and memory, which increases the risk of poor academic performance and school dropout, particularly in teens.

Research has shown that regular marijuana use can reduce IQ levels and test scores. While the long-term effects of marijuana concentrate use are not fully known, dabbing effects on brain and other organs may be similar and even more dangerous.

Dabs are far from harmless. Here are the most common side effects of smoking wax:

• Reduced ability to learn, remember, and retain information.
• Increased anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks.
• Potential for hallucinations and distorted perceptions of reality.
• High heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those with underlying health conditions.
• Risk of nausea, vomiting, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS).
• Potential for cannabis use disorder, leading to cravings, irritability, and difficulty stopping use.
• Withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, decreased appetite, and mood swings.

While the long-term marijuana dabbing risks are not fully understood, the high THC content suggests greater risks of cognitive and physical harm over time.

Signs of Dabbing

Dabbing, due to its high THC concentration, often produces noticeable physical, psychological, and behavioral signs in users. If you suspect someone may be dabbing, here are common indicators to look for:

• Dabbing paraphernalia such as dab rigs, vaporizers, or butane torches.
• Bloodshot eyes are a common physical sign of marijuana use.
• Increased appetite, known as “the munchies.”
• Rapid heartbeat after consumption.
• Frequent coughing fits due to lung irritation.
• Nausea and vomiting are possible symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS).
• Extreme euphoria, intense happiness or uncontrollable laughter.
• Lethargy, sluggishness and lack of interest in activities.
• Disorientation, difficulty focusing or coordinating movements.
• Increased feelings of anxiety or panic.
• Social withdrawal and a tendency to isolate oneself from friends and family.
• Distorted perception, hallucinations or altered states of reality.
• Mood swings or sudden changes in emotional state.
• Distinct cannabis odor or chemicals.

Other physiological and psychological issues linked to the use of BHO include rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, short-term memory loss, brief loss of consciousness, lethargy, visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as tactile and visceral sensations.

Damage to important organs through pathways related to serotonin and sympathetic nervous system activity has also been reported.

Dab Abuse and Withdrawal

Dab abuse refers to the excessive or compulsive use of cannabis concentrates, which can lead to a range of physical and psychological issues. As dabbing becomes more popular, the risks associated with its abuse are becoming increasingly concerning.

Signs of dab abuse may include:

• Users may need to consume larger dabs to achieve the same effects.
• A decline in work, school, or personal responsibilities due to dabbing.
• Withdrawing from friends and family in favor of using dabs alone.
• Persisting in dabbing even when it causes health issues, relationship problems, or legal troubles.

Dabbing Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone who regularly dabs suddenly stops or significantly reduces their use, they may experience marijuana withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Increased mood swings or frustration.
• Heightened feelings of nervousness or worry.
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Reduced desire to eat, which can lead to weight loss.
• Feeling sick to the stomach, which may lead to vomiting.
• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

Can You OD On Wax?

Cannabis effects may last up to 24 hours, but this timeframe is influenced by factors such as the amount consumed, the method of consumption, the THC content, and the individual’s body weight and metabolism.

However, it is unlikely to experience a fatal overdose from wax. Excessive consumption can lead to very uncomfortable and distressing symptoms. If someone feels overwhelmed or experiences severe reactions after using wax, seeking medical attention is important.

Find Rehab for Dabbing Near Me

Dabbing, with its high THC concentrations, may cause unique risks, particularly for adolescents. Young users have nearly six times the likelihood of continuing to use cannabis concentrates compared to their peers. This increased risk emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of dab abuse and understanding the potential consequences.

If you or someone you know is struggling with dabbing or cannabis use, various treatment options are available, including counseling, support groups, and rehabilitation programs specifically designed to address substance use issues.

To find a rehab facility for dabbing near you, consider contacting local rehab centers to locate specialized treatment options.

People Also Ask

What are wax dabs?

Wax dabs are concentrated cannabis extracts with high THC levels, typically ranging from 40% to 80%. They are created through solvent extraction and vaporized using specialized equipment for intense psychoactive effects.

How bad are dabs?

Dabs can pose significant health risks, including an increased likelihood of cannabis use disorder, cognitive impairment, anxiety, paranoia, and respiratory issues. Their potency can lead to overwhelming effects, especially in inexperienced users.

Can dabs make you sick?

Yes, dabs can cause nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues, particularly if consumed in excessive amounts. Some users may experience cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), leading to severe nausea and vomiting after heavy, long-term use.

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