Cannabis
Ocular Effects of Substance Use – How and Why Drugs Change Your Eyes
Eyes are the windows to the soul. You can tell a lot about a person by looking into their eyes, like how they’re feeling, if they’re lying about something, and often times, if they’re high on drugs. While not all substances affect our eyes the same way, most of them do impact our peepers in some way. From pupil dilation and constriction to bloodshot, watery eyes, it’s a very common and simple way to determine if a person may be on drugs, and which ones.
Ocular manifestations of drug use
One of the significant side effects from drugs is changes in the appearance of the eyes, including the pupil’s motion and size and the color of the whites. Many drugs from illicit ones to legal substances to prescription drugs, in all different classes from cannabis to opiates to amphetamines, all of them have effects on the eyes.
Some of these effects are short term, like the ones mentioned above, while some are more severe and can lead to lasting changes in vision. For now, we’ll focus on the former, immediate effects that indicate current intoxication. These include bloodshot and/or watery eyes, dilated pupils, and pinpoint pupils.
Bloodshot eyes
Many irritants like make-up and various chemicals, medical conditions such as allergies, and several different substances can cause red, bloodshot, eyes – which is a result of expanding blood vessels in the sclera. Chronic dry eye can also cause redness in the eyes, as your body is not producing enough tears to keep them properly lubricated.
Again, there are many different drugs that can make your eyes red but most commonly, you see it when people drink too much alcohol, smoke weed, or use cocaine. As a regular pot smoker that also suffers from chronic dry eye, I use eyedrops pretty much anytime I leave the house, just to not look like I’m baked out of my mind while out in public.
Dilated pupils
Some substances trigger the body’s fight or flight adrenaline response by interacting with serotonin and adrenergic receptors in our sympathetic nervous system. This chemical reaction leads to mydriasis, the muscle relaxation that allows the eye’s pupil to expand and let in more light. Pupils also dilate naturally due to changes in light and emotional events, for example, pupils can dilate when a person is scared, stressed, or sexually aroused.
Stimulants are most commonly cause pupil dilation. However, this symptom can result from ingesting alcohol, cocaine, cannabis in rare cases, and it’s pretty common with most hallucinogens as well such as MDMA, psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine. SSRI antidepressants are also known to cause pupil dilation. What’s also interesting is that opiates cause the opposite effect, constriction of the pupils, but opioid withdrawal can cause the pupils to dilate.
I’ve experienced pupil dilation when using MDMA and psilocybin, but since I typically use those types of drugs at night, I didn’t really notice any changes to my vision. In my younger years, I sometimes used ecstasy during the day, and I do remember feeling like my eyes were more sensitive to sunlight – sunglasses were my best friend. As a matter of fact, I’ve met people who were rolling and wore their sunglasses at night too, so I guess the struggle is real for some.
Pinpoint pupils
Whereas dilation due to activation of the sympathetic nervous system, it’s stimulation of the parasympathetic system, known for “rest and digest” functions, that causes constriction, or pinpoint pupils. Pinpoint pupils appear and remain very small even in darkness.
Pupil constriction can have natural causes, like exposure to bright lights and aging. It’s also a side effect of certain medications, or could be caused by hemorrhaging or poisoning. It can also indicate opiate use, but unlike dilated pupils, pinpoint pupils are often a sign of a possible overdose. If your friend or family member displays this symptom and their eyes are not responding to light, call 911 immediately.
Other central nervous system depressants like benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium) and barbiturates (e.g. phenobarbital) can cause pinpoint pupils. These drugs act on the brain’s GABA receptors, which play a role in pupil size regulation.
Other effects
In addition to the above-listed side effects, which are the most frequently discussed, there are quite a few other eye-related tells that point to intoxication. For example, when people use alcohol, opiates, and other downers, it’s common to experience heavy, droopy eyelids. From an outsider’s perspective, it almost looks like the person is starting to fall asleep because their eyes will barely stay open.
With amphetamines, twitching can happen pretty often. This can be in various parts of the body, but it does often occur in the eyelids. It can be subtle, but sometimes it’s extremely noticeable. Other ocular symptoms can include blurred vision (common when people drink too much, but other substances can cause this too), slowed reaction time or jerky eye movements (which is why police ask suspects to follow their fingers when testing for sobriety), and glazed over eyes (stoned eyes).
Final Thoughts
Listen to the eyes, they have much to say; especially when it comes to a person’s current state of mind. Again, it doesn’t really matter what class of drugs you’re talking about, most of them have some type of effects on the eyes. Some are very obvious, like extremely dilate pupils or severe twitching, but some can be more subtle, or can be attributed to many other causes, like redness. So whether you’re checking for drug use in someone else, or trying to hide your own drug use, remember to always take a quick glance at your eyes before doing something important.
Hello readers. We’re happy to have you with us at Cannadelics.com; a news source here to bring you the best in independent reporting for the growing cannabis and hallucinogen fields. Join us frequently to stay on top of everything, and subscribe to our Cannadelics Weekly Newsletter, for updates straight to your email. Check out some awesome promos for cannabis buds, smoking devices and equipment like vapes, edibles, cannabinoid compounds, magic mushroom products, and a whole bunch more. Let’s all get high together!
Related
Having a winter arc has become a fitness trend, here is how to take it up a notch by using marijuana.
The Winter Arc is a viral TikTok trend encouraging people to focus on health and wellness during the winter months. The trend is a self-improvement challenge that involves setting intentions and making changes to habits to get ahead on fitness and wellbeing goals. Incorporating marijuana into your winter arc can enhance your personal growth journey and help you navigate the colder months with greater ease and enjoyment. With shorter day and chilly temperatures, cannabis can be a valuable tool for relaxation, creativity, and self-improvement. Fitting marijuana into your winter arc routine can give you an extra boost.
RELATED: Marijuana Users Gain Less Weight Than Non-Users
Consider using sativa strains like Tangie or Lemon Haze to boost energy and creativity when tackling your objectives. These strains can be particularly helpful for morning routines, providing a lift to start your day on a positive note.
For evening routines, indica-dominant strains like Northern Lights or Granddaddy Purple can aid in relaxation and stress relief. These strains can be excellent for winding down after a productive day, helping you reflect on your progress and prepare for restful sleep.
Don’t let the cold keep you indoors. Cannabis can enhance winter outdoor activities, making them more enjoyable and invigorating. Strains like Jack Herer or Green Crack can provide focus and energy for winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding. For more leisurely activities like winter hikes, CBD-dominant strains like Harlequin or ACDC can offer relaxation without intense psychoactive effects, allowing you to stay present and connected with nature.
RELATED: Holiday Hangover? Here’s How To Stop It Before It Strikes
Incorporate CBD-infused bath products or topicals to soothe sore muscles and dry skin. Cannabis-infused teas or hot chocolate can provide a cozy and relaxing evening ritual. These practices can help combat winter blues and keep you on track with your personal growth goals.
Use cannabis to enhance mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga. This can help you stay centered and focused on your winter arc goals. Additionally, cannabis can spark creativity, potentially inspiring new hobbies or projects that align with your personal development objectives.
Always consider health factors when using cannabis. If you’re using it for medical purposes, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with your treatment plan.
By thoughtfully integrating cannabis into your winter arc, you can create a holistic approach to personal growth that embraces both the challenges and opportunities of the season. Whether you’re focusing on productivity, wellness, or creativity, cannabis can be a valuable ally in your journey towards self-improvement during the winter months.
His post presidency secured his legacy as a great humanitarian, but while president, he wa an ally of cannabis.
While Jimmy Carter legacy as a president is mixed, his actions as a former president has positioned him as a one of the great global humanitarians. Humble, filled with common sense and a strong backbone, Carter stood for his beliefs. Coupled with his wife Rosalynn, spent the years of his presidency working to make the world a better place. From Habitat for Humanity to the Carter Center, who wanted to help everyday people. One of those groups were military veterans. He was the first major political to help push medical marijuana. Yes, Jimmy Carter was an ally of the cannabis industry, and we owe him a debt of gratitude.
Jimmy Carter’s presidency marked a significant shift in the United States’ approach to cannabis policy. During his 1976 campaign, Carter endorsed the decriminalization of marijuana on a state-by-state basis, aligning with recommendations from the National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse. This stance was revolutionary for its time, as eight states had already decriminalized marijuana by 1977.
Upon taking office, Carter maintained his progressive stance on cannabis. In a 1977 address to Congress, he argued that penalties for cannabis use should not outweigh the actual harms of consumption. Carter appointed pro-decriminalization advisors, including British physician Peter Bourne as his “drug czar” to head the Office of Drug Abuse Policy. Carter’s administration made concrete steps towards cannabis reform. The president supported replacing imprisonment with civil fines for possession of one ounce or less of cannabis and removing federal penalties for such possession.
Additionally, the Carter administration founded the Compassionate Investigational New Drug program in 1978, which provided federally-produced cannabis products to a limited number of patients. However, Carter’s momentum on decriminalization faced significant obstacles. Opposition came from various quarters, including law enforcement, conservative politicians, and grassroots parents’ groups . The resignation of Peter Bourne in July 1978, following controversies surrounding his alleged drug use, dealt a severe blow to the administration’s drug policy efforts.
Conservative politicians, such as future president Ronald Reagan, used their platforms to attack Carter for being “soft” on cannabis. Congress ultimately ignored Carter’s support for decriminalization, alarmed by a sharp increase in cocaine use and viewing cannabis as a gateway drug.
Despite these setbacks during his presidency, Carter has maintained his progressive stance on cannabis in the years since leaving office. In 2012, speaking to a CNN panel, he expressed support for the legalization of marijuana. He stated, “I’m in favor of it. I think it’s OK,” and suggested that states like Washington could serve as experimental grounds for cannabis regulation.
Carter’s approach to cannabis policy was ahead of its time, combining public health considerations with a more lenient stance on possession. While his efforts during his presidency were ultimately thwarted by political opposition and shifting public opinion, his continued advocacy in later years has contributed to the ongoing dialogue on cannabis reform in the United States
After the holidays, January is a tough with returning to a work routine and the weather…but there is something to help.
Th holiday is time of time off, festive actives and anticipation. But starting 2 January, it is back to work and long work days, delayed projects and credit card bills, but there is good news. If you want to be focused and more upbeat, start 2025 prepped and ready with marijuana microdosing. As we look ahead, microdosing marijuana is emerging as a promising method for achieving calm and focus in our increasingly hectic lives. This approach involves consuming small, controlled amounts of cannabis to harness its therapeutic benefits without experiencing the intense psychoactive effects typically associated with larger doses.
RELATED: This Natural Cannabinoid Makes You Feel Happy
Microdosing marijuana allows individuals to fine-tune their cannabis experience, achieving a delicate balance between sensory enjoyment and therapeutic benefits while minimizing unwanted side effects. By opting for carefully calibrated doses, users can maintain focus and functionality throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for work or other daily tasks.
One of the key advantages of microdosing is its potential to alleviate anxiety and stress while promoting relaxation. Studies have shown that low doses of THC can dampen negative emotional responses without significantly impacting performance. This subtle effect can help individuals navigate stressful situations with greater ease and maintain a sense of calm throughout their day.
For those seeking to enhance their productivity and creativity, microdosing marijuana may offer a unique advantage. Some tech workers have reported that small doses of cannabis provide a creative edge, potentially boosting mental functioning and innovative thinking. While more research is needed to confirm these effects, many users find that microdosing helps them maintain focus and clarity without the distracting “high” associated with larger doses.
RELATED: Holiday Hangover? Here’s How To Stop It Before It Strikes
Each year the cannabis industry continues innovations in microdosing products and delivery methods. Precise dosing options, such as low-THC edibles, vapes, or concentrates, will make it easier for users to find their optimal microdose and maintain consistency in their regimen.
It’s important to note that the effects of microdosing can vary from person to person, and finding the right dose may require some experimentation. Generally, microdoses range from 1 to 5 mg of THC, depending on individual tolerance and desired outcomes.
As always, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating microdosing into your wellness routine. By offering a more subtle and controlled approach to cannabis consumption, microdosing may help individuals navigate the challenges of modern life with greater ease and clarity
Teen Marijuana Use Drops to the Lowest Level Since 1994
Here’s An Ultimate Buying Guide For Purchasing Vapes In Bulk This Year
The Cannabis College Germany – Best Weed School in Germany
Minnesota adult-use cannabis license applicants start new year with uncertainty, hope
Blue Coffee Weed Strain Overview
Fitting Marijuana Into Your Winter Arc Routine
What are the 50 Most Prescribed Drugs in America?
Happy New Year From Canna Law Blog!
Star signs and cannabis strains: January 2025 horoscopes
Best Cannabis Grow Tent For Growing Indoors
Distressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
United States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
What you Need to Know
Drug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
NCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
It has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
Cannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
A new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse
Your Go-To Source for Cannabis Logos and Designs
UArizona launches online cannabis compliance online course
-
Cannabis News2 years agoDistressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
-
One-Hit Wonders2 years agoUnited States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
-
Cannabis 1012 years agoWhat you Need to Know
-
drug testing1 year agoDrug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
-
Education2 years agoNCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
-
Cannabis2 years agoIt has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
-
Marijuana Business Daily2 years agoCannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
-
California2 years agoA new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse