How Long Do Edibles Last?

Cannabis Use|Education Edibles

Like it? Share it!

Keep Reading

Edibles infused with THC can be a lot of fun to explore, but the effects are more intense and the experience is longer-lasting. One big question most people have before trying cannabis edibles for the first time is: How long do the effects of edibles last?

Trust us, you don’t want to consume an edible with the mistaken impression that you will simply go on about your day in an hour when the effects wear off. Here is a quick rundown on what to expect as far as the duration of effects after consuming a THC-infused edible.

So, how long do edibles last?

Once you eat an edible, it goes through the digestion process before the effects kick in. With the exception of hard candies, most edibles will take effect at about 60 to 180 minutes after eating. The average edible dose will leave you feeling the effects for at least six hours, and possibly more for some people. Of course, the duration can depend on your own sensitivity to THC and even your metabolism.

Some people with a higher tolerance may feel the effects for just four hours, while someone more sensitive may feel the effects for up to 12 hours. Learning how to dose edibles effectively is one of the most sought-after skills among cannabis users.

How long do edibles last in your system?

Even though the effects of an edible may be pretty much non-existent after about six to eight hours, the THC metabolites will linger in your system for much longer. The metabolites that remain after the body processes THC and other cannabinoids linger in your system for anywhere from 3 to 12 days, depending on how often you use, your metabolism, and more.

Do edibles expire?

Edibles can and do expire, so be sure to pay attention to the expiration date on the package. Some edibles are naturally going to have longer shelf lives than others. For example, something like hard candy infused with cannabis extract is going to be shelf-stable for a lot longer than something like a cannabis brownie. The food ingredients degrade with time, but so do the incorporated cannabinoids.

Do edibles work less on a full stomach?

Edibles don’t necessarily work less on a full stomach, but they can take longer to kick in. If your stomach is empty, the only thing it has to process is the edible, so the effects can hit a lot faster and possibly even more intensely. Also, if you eat after the edible has already kicked in, you may actually intensify the experience, which may not be a desirable feeling. Therefore, it can be best to start with a full stomach instead of trying to eat after the fact.

Ready to try edibles for the first time but need a little more guidance? Be sure to check out our full guide to cannabis edibles.

Shop The Best Edibles in New England

Shop The Best Edibles in New England

Shop Now

Table of Contents