Key Points

  • Dabs contain a high concentration of THC.
  • Dabs are made by extracting THC from marijuana using butane.
  • It is illegal to manufacture or possess dabs.
  • It is possible to overdose on dabs.
  • The effects of THC can be felt within minutes
  • A dabbing high can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
  • Dabs, regardless of their form, can contain up to 80% THC.
  • People who engage in dabbing are at a greater risk of developing addiction.

Dabbing has existed for many years, though social media has been instrumental in fueling its popularity among young users. If you’ve only recently heard of the phrase, you may be wondering what it is, what it’s made from or why people who manufacture ‘dabs’ have received so much prison time.[1]

In this blog, you’ll learn what dabbing is, what it contains, and why it’s considered extremely dangerous.

What is a Marijuana Dab?

Washington State Department of Social & Health Services defines dab as butane hash oil (BHO), sometimes called honeycomb, earwax or a budder.[2] It contains a high THC concentration, which is extracted from marijuana using a solvent, typically butane gas.[3] Due to their high concentration of THC, dabs are more potent than cannabis in other forms.

Forms of cannabis dabs include:[4][2]

    • Wax: an opaque concentrate with a soft waxy consistency
    • Shatter: a glass-like concentrate, which is translucent and fractures easily.
    • Budder: a butter, like concentrate, with a creamy consistency.
    • Honey Oil: a viscous concentrate with an oily consistency.
    • Crumble: a crumbly concentrate with a dry consistency.

No matter the form, all dabs are made by extracting THC and other active compounds from cannabis plants.

What is Dabbing?

Dabbing is the act of inhaling vapors from a highly concentrated form of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychotropic cannabinoid in marijuana.[5] These vapors, commonly known as dabs, lead to a more intense high than traditional marijuana use.[5]

Is Dabbing Dangerous?

The way dabs are crafted makes them inherently risky to use, and these dangers cannot be mitigated. They are also illegal to possess in some states, including Texas.[6]According to the National Library of Medicine, manufacturing BHO, the key component of dabs, violates US Federal law regardless of the state’s marijuana legalization status.[7]

Current risks associated with using dabs or dabbing include:[8]

  • Contaminants: Consuming contaminated dabs that contain toxic substances like pesticides and butane.[9]
  • Bacteria: Inhaling dabs that contain dangerous bacteria or fungi.
  • Carbon Dioxide: CO2 exposure due to heated butane.

 

What are the Health Risks Associated with Dabbing?

According to the Pulmonary Advisor, case reports on dabbing usage describe acute and chronic lung impairment, including pruritus, pneumonia, and hypoxemic lung failure.[10] Dabbing can also result in permanent brain changes, cognitive dysfunction, and psychosis.[10]

Side effects associated with dabbing include:

  • Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Antegrade anesthesia
  • Hallucinations
  • Lethargy

What-is-Dabbing

Is Dabbing Addictive?

Marijuana is a Schedule I Controlled Substance due to its potential for abuse and misuse.[11] Therefore, dabbing is inherently addictive. However, not everyone who dabs will become addicted. Those who do may be diagnosed with cannabis use disorder (CUD).[12]

What is Cannabis Use Disorder?

Cannabis use disorder is a medical condition characterized by chronic marijuana use that causes significant impairment or distress to the user.[12] The risk of developing cannabis use disorder is higher in individuals who use high-potency marijuana, such as dabs.

Individuals with cannabis use disorder have difficulty controlling marijuana use or ignoring cravings.[12] They may also continue to use marijuana despite the negative consequences they encounter. Lastly, people with CUD have withdrawal symptoms when they reduce their use.

What is the Treatment for Dabbing Addiction?

Dabbing addiction, also known as cannabis use disorder, is a treatable condition. For treatment to be successful, it is recommended to work with a licensed clinical psychologist or psychiatrist.

They can help you uncover the root causes of addiction, which may include behavioral factors such as trauma, depression or low self-esteem. They can also help you develop coping strategies to manage cravings and cope with triggers that lead to use. Should they uncover an underlying mental health condition, they may offer treatment, including medications or behavioral therapy.

Although some individuals find help outside of a rehabilitation facility, others may require rehab if they are unable to make changes without additional support. There are also several treatment options available at an addiction treatment center that stand-alone mental health facilities may not offer.

They include:

Individuals needing intensive support may enroll in a residential inpatient or partial hospitalization program. These programs allow patients to live at or near the facility while receiving treatment.

If you or someone you know has difficulty giving up dabs despite the harm they inflict on your health or social life, contact Southeast Detox GA. We can develop a personalized program to help you overcome cannabis use disorder and maintain lasting sobriety.

You don’t have to face addiction alone; we’re here to support your recovery journey.