Cross Faded: Understanding the Meaning, Symptoms and Risks

As cannabis becomes more accessible and acceptable, so does the risk of people mixing it with other substances, like alcohol. Intoxication from mixing pot and booze is commonly called “crossfaded.” 

This article will dive into crossfaded symptoms, risks, and what you can do if you find yourself in such a position. 

What Does “Cross Faded” Mean?

Being cross faded means you're under the influence of both alcohol and cannabis at the same time.

The effects of alcohol and cannabis increase when mixed together, particularly THC levels in the blood.¹ 

The combo can hit harder than either cannabis or alcohol alone, often leading to stronger effects, but usually not in a good way. People might feel dizzy, anxious, disoriented, or nauseous. It’s also common to feel “spun out” or overwhelmed. This can lead to unpredictable and uncomfortable feelings, especially for new or sensitive users.

Cross Faded Symptoms

The effects of being cross faded peak not long after those first 90 or so minutes of consumption of both substances. Then the unpleasant, often unpredictable side effects may come rolling in. The most common symptoms of becoming cross-faded are: 

• Nausea
• Sweating
• Disorientation 

Additional symptoms include: 

• Chills
• Decreased verbal or motor skills
• Dilated pupils
• Disorientation
• Increased anxiety
• Increased heartbeat
• Shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Vomiting

What Does Crossfading Feel Like, and How Long Does it Last?

Both alcohol and THC affect receptors in the brain. When mixed together, your body will likely feel enhanced effects, from impaired cognition to decreased motor skills. 

It’s difficult to pinpoint how long the effect lasts.

With smoked cannabis, highs last one to three hours on average. Edibles increase that period up to eight hours. Drunkenness typically lasts six hours. Regardless, each substance affects people differently based on numerous factors, from body composition to how much we've eaten that day. With various factors in play, you could feel the miscellaneous effects of a crossfade for four to 24 hours. 

The combined symptoms of alcohol and cannabis can create an effect often called “greening out,” which is brought on by using too much cannabis. Since alcohol intensifies the effects of THC, using both enhances the risk. Plus, there are still the risks associated with drinking too much alcohol. 

What are the Risks of Crossfading?

The main risk of being cross faded is the intensified effects of each substance, leading to adverse effects such as dizziness, nausea, and decreased motor skills.

THC levels increase with alcohol consumption, and oftentimes, negative feelings, like confusion and the inability to focus, may occur.

Additional research is needed to better understand the risk factors associated with being crossfaded. But, we already have some troubling statistics to ponder – with cross-faded individuals being twice as likely to get behind the wheel after consuming. It is strongly advised that no one operate any vehicles or heavy machinery when consuming alcohol and weed.

While we await further research, it’s important to examine the effects of heavy use of either substance.

Cannabis use disorder numbers vary, with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reporting that 3 in 10 people have the disorder. Other analyses have suggested smaller figures, but no conclusions have been made.

Simultaneously, the long-term health risks of heavy cannabis use are still being debated and analyzed through various clinical studies. While we await further analysis of cannabis, there appear to be no reports or cautions surrounding death by excessive cannabis use. 

The effects of heavy alcohol consumption and abuse are well-documented. The CDC estimates that 1 in 6 American adults binge drink, with 25% doing so weekly. Excessive drinking is the leading cause of preventable deaths in America. Those with alcohol abuse disorder die an average of 26 years before other Americans. 

Anyone with pre-existing conditions should use caution when using one or both substances and consult with a medical professional before using either. 

What to Do If You are Crossfaded

The combined effects of cannabis and alcohol can be intense and hit faster than expected. If you do get cross faded, find a calm place to rest and stay with people you trust. Unfortunately, there is little you can do to stop a crossfade early or sober up immediately. Once you’re on the horse, there’s no getting off this ride.

However, there are some steps that may help you feel less overwhelmed.

• Drink Water: Anyone who has drunk alcohol before has probably heard that water helps keep you hydrated and hopefully away from a hangover. Drinking water may also help with cannabis effects, like dry mouth, and help THC filter through your bodily systems. 
• Eat: Food is believed to help absorb alcohol and cannabis in the body. Just don’t overdo it and possibly get nauseous.
• Relax or Sleep It Off: Getting into a comfortable place should greatly improve your anxiety levels. If you can, try to sleep and ride it out.
• Try CBD: CBD’s effects can offset or dull those produced by THC. CBD won’t do anything for your alcohol intoxication. But it should help lessen the psychoactivity in your mind that could be clashing with the disorientation brought on by the booze. 
• Call Fireside Project: Almost every cannabis consumer has felt too intoxicated at times, and not everyone has a built-in support system at home to help them process their experience with medical marijuana if they feel anxious or overwhelmed. Fireside Project's Psychedelic Peer Support Line provides help to individuals during and after a psychedelic experience. Through their Equity Project, callers who are military veterans or who identify as BIPOC or transgender are able to connect with a support line volunteer who shares that aspect of their identity.

How many drinks does it take to be considered “cross faded”?

There's no set answer. Everyone’s body is distinct. Each person needs a different amount of cannabis or alcohol to become high or drunk. The same applies to crossfading, which is why you must be careful with how much you consume, especially if you mix the two. 

How do I stop vomiting when cross faded?

Unfortunately, you’ll have to throw up until your body says stop. Drinking small sips of water every few minutes may help. Lying on cool bathroom tiles can help, but that's purely anecdotal. 

How long before the increased effects from cross fading pass?

The effects are difficult to estimate because cannabis lasts for various time frames depending on numerous factors, from plant potency to your body size. Alcohol has similar variables, with its effects often lasting around six hours. 

How can I avoid becoming cross faded?

Don't mix your substances. Choose one and stick with it for the occasion/evening. If you insist on combining the two, monitor your dosage carefully, don't overconsume, and drink a lot of water. 

Can I become cross faded from CBD?

You may feel some body effects, like sedation, if you combine CBD with alcohol.

Can I get crossfaded from THC-infused alcoholic beverages?

Absolutely, which is why many are cautious or concerned about such products hitting the market. It is also why most, if not all, legal cannabis states ban alcohol sales at consumption lounges. Use extreme caution when mixing the two substances. 

References

1. Yurasek AM, Aston ER, Metrik J. Co-use of Alcohol and Cannabis: A Review. Curr Addict Rep. 2017;4(2):184-193. doi:10.1007/s40429-017-0149-8 ↩︎

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.