CANNABIS EXPLAINER
How Long Do Edibles Last?
Edible effects typically last 4-8 hours — plan your schedule accordingly.
CANNABIS EXPLAINER
Edible effects typically last 4-8 hours — plan your schedule accordingly.
| Dose (THC) | Onset | Peak | Total Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5-5mg | 60-90 min | 2-3 hours | 3-5 hours |
| 5-10mg | 45-90 min | 2-4 hours | 4-6 hours |
| 10-25mg | 45-60 min | 3-5 hours | 5-8 hours |
| 25mg+ | 30-60 min | 4-6 hours | 6-10 hours |
When you eat cannabis, THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC before reaching the brain. This metabolite has a longer half-life and is more potent than inhaled THC. The digestive process creates a slow, sustained release of active compounds into the bloodstream compared to the rapid pulse from inhalation. This pharmacokinetic difference is why edible experiences last 3-5x longer than inhaled cannabis.
Several variables influence how long your edible experience lasts: your body weight and metabolism speed, whether you ate recently (empty stomach = faster onset and more intense but shorter duration; full stomach = delayed onset but longer, more gradual experience), your cannabis tolerance (regular users metabolize THC more efficiently), the specific cannabinoid ratio of the product, and individual genetic variation in CYP450 liver enzymes that process THC.
If your edible experience is lasting longer than you'd like or feels too intense: stay hydrated, eat a light snack, find a calm environment, and rest. CBD can reduce THC's psychoactive effects — have a high-CBD product on hand. Black pepper is anecdotally reported to reduce cannabis anxiety. Time is the only reliable remedy. Most edible experiences resolve fully within 8-12 hours even at high doses. Schedule edible experiences for days when you have no obligations.