From gummies to brownies to chocolate, edibles might seem like harmless (and delicious) fun. But the effects of THC can sneak up on you, especially if you’re not a regular user.
We asked Godfrey Pearlson, MD, director of Olin Neuropsychiatry Research Center at Hartford HealthCare’s Institute of Living, what you should know before trying cannabis edibles.
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1. Edibles take longer to kick in
Unlike smoking, which delivers THC to your brain within minutes, edibles are absorbed through your digestive system. That means it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours before you feel the effects.
“The delay is one of the biggest issues,” says Dr. Pearlson. “People assume nothing’s happening, take more, and then end up with a much stronger — and sometimes frightening — experience than they expected.”
So if you’re new to edibles, make sure to start slow – and don’t take a higher dose if they seem to take too long to kick in.
> Related: Delta-8 THC Drinks: 5 Things to Know Before You Sip
2. The high can last much longer
If you’re used to smoking cannabis, the effects tend to wear off after a couple of hours.
But with edibles, you might feel them for six to eight hours, or even longer depending on your metabolism.
“Once THC is processed by the liver, it turns into a different chemical that’s actually more potent,” explains Dr. Pearlson. “That’s why edible highs not only last longer, but can also feel stronger than smoking the same amount of THC.”
3. Labels aren’t always accurate
With alcohol, you know how much is in a glass of wine versus a shot of vodka. But with edibles, the math isn’t always so clear.
“Because edibles aren’t well-regulated, the amount of THC listed on the package is often inaccurate,” says Dr. Pearlson. “That means you might think you’re taking 5 milligrams when in reality it’s two or three times that.”
That unpredictability can make dosing tricky — and risky, especially for beginners.
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4. Side effects can be intense
Most people take edibles hoping for a mellow buzz. But for some, the experience is anything but relaxing.
“High doses of THC can cause anxiety, paranoia, disorientation or even hallucinations,” warns Dr. Pearlson. “And if you consume more than you should, these reactions are more likely.”
If you’re trying them for the first time, make sure you’re in a safe, comfortable environment — and don’t mix with alcohol.
> Related: Will Marijuana Hurt My Heart?
If you’re going to try edibles…
Dr. Pearlson offers these safety tips:
- Start slow. Begin with the lowest dose possible (2.5 to 5 mg THC) and wait at least two hours before taking more.
- Read the label carefully. Even if it’s not perfect, it’s your best guide.
- Store them safely. Edibles often look like regular candy — keep them out of reach of kids and pets.
- Don’t mix with alcohol. The effects may multiply in unpredictable ways.
- Know your limits. If you start feeling anxious or unwell, remind yourself the effects will wear off in time.
“If you’re curious about trying edibles, make sure you do it cautiously and with the right information,” says Dr. Pearlson. “Understanding the risks is the best way to protect yourself.”
