What Is Shatter? The Dangers of High-Potency Cannabis Products

Cannabis use has evolved over the years, and it is now possible to buy incredibly potent cannabis extracts. One of these extracts is called shatter, a cannabis concentrate that has gained popularity for its intense high.

While some users appreciate the powerful psychoactive effects of this drug, it also comes with its own dangers. It is easier to become addicted to shatter, and the side-effects and withdrawal are worse than with less potent forms of cannabis.

In this blog we explore what is shatter, and look at the problems that it can cause in your life. If you or a loved one has become addicted to cannabis and you need professional help, contact Holina Rehab today on +66 (0) 626 418 369.

What Is Shatter?

Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate known for its glass-like, brittle texture and high THC content. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for the “high” sensation. Shatter is produced using a solvent extraction process, typically involving butane or propane, to extract THC and other cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. The result is a translucent, amber-colored concentrate that can contain up to 80-90% THC.

The name “shatter” comes from its brittle consistency, which can break or “shatter” like glass when handled. This form of cannabis is typically consumed by vaporizing or dabbing, a method that involves heating the concentrate on a hot surface and inhaling the vapor.

The Potency of Shatter

One of the main appeals of shatter is its potency. Compared to traditional cannabis flower, which usually contains 15-25% THC, shatter’s THC content is significantly higher. This means that even a small amount can produce very intense effects. For some users, this high potency is desirable, offering a quick and powerful high. However, this comes with increased risks.

The Dangers of High-Potency Cannabis Products

When exploring what is shatter, it’s important to become aware of the risks. High-potency cannabis products like shatter are associated with several dangers and risks that you should be aware of. These include physical health risks, mental health implications, and the potential for addiction and dependency.

Physical Health Risks

Shatter can cause physical health problems. Some of these are outlined below.

Respiratory Issues: Inhaling shatter, especially through dabbing, can expose your lungs to high temperatures and potentially harmful chemicals. The process of creating shatter can leave residual solvents like butane, which, if not properly purged, can be inhaled and cause respiratory irritation or damage.

Overconsumption: Due to its high THC concentration, it’s easy to consume too much shatter in a single session. This can lead to severe intoxication, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and in extreme cases, loss of consciousness.

Physical Dependence: Regular use of high-potency cannabis products can lead to physical dependence, where your body becomes accustomed to the presence of THC and exhibits withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it.

Mental Health Implications

All cannabis are caused mental health problems, but the higher THC levels found in shatter can cause more intense problems and at a much faster rate than cannabis with typical THC levels.

Anxiety and Paranoia: High doses of THC can trigger or exacerbate anxiety and paranoia. Users may experience intense feelings of fear, panic attacks, or a sense of losing control, which can be distressing and harmful to mental health.

Psychosis: There is a well-documented link between high-potency cannabis use and the onset of psychotic symptoms. These can include hallucinations, delusions, and severe disorientation. Using shatter can trigger or worsen these conditions in people with a predisposition to mental health disorders.

Cognitive Impairment: Long-term use of high-potency cannabis can impair cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making. This can affect daily life, academic performance, and professional responsibilities.

Addiction and Dependency

Shatter can cause addiction, just like any other psychoactive substance. The end results of cannabis addiction can be horrific.

Increased Risk of Addiction: The high THC content in shatter increases the risk of developing cannabis use disorder. This condition is characterized by a loss of control over cannabis use, continued use despite negative consequences, and withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.

Tolerance Build-Up: With regular use, you may develop a tolerance to shatter, requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effects. This can lead to increased consumption and a higher likelihood of experiencing negative side effects.

Withdrawal Symptoms: When trying to reduce or stop using shatter, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, and mood swings. These symptoms can make it challenging to quit and may contribute to a cycle of dependence.

Getting Help for Shatter Addiction

It is possible to become addicted to all forms of cannabis, but the extremely high levels of THC and other cannabinoids found in shatter can lead to you becoming more profoundly addicted.

Addiction to cannabis can be just as life-destroying as any other addiction. People with cannabis addiction can find themselves unable to function without it, with mounting mental health problems and severe withdrawal symptoms if they stop.

Fortunately help is available. At Holina Rehab we offer a cannabis addiction treatment program that will support you in getting to the root of your addiction. Our program involves group therapy, individual therapy and a host of other treatments which are designed to get you back to wellness following a period of cannabis abuse.

For more information on our program or to arrange a tour of our beachside facility in Koh Phangan, Thailand, contact us today on +66 (0) 626 418 369. We look forward to speaking with you.