Duration depends primarily on how cannabis is consumed.
Inhaled (flower or vape):
- Onset: 2–10 minutes
- Peak: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Duration: 1–3 hours total
Edibles:
- Onset: 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Peak: 2–4 hours
- Duration: 4–8 hours, sometimes longer
Factors that affect duration:
- Dose — higher THC content extends effects
- Tolerance — regular users process cannabis faster
- Metabolism — individual body chemistry plays a significant role
- Consumption method — edibles last significantly longer than inhaled forms
- Hydration and food intake
For new users, edibles carry the highest risk of overconsumption due to delayed onset. Many people consume more before the first dose takes effect. Start low, wait long.
Sources:
1. Healthline — [How Long Does a Marijuana High Last?](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-a-marijuana-high-last)
2. Reddit — r/cannabis (community duration reports across methods)
3. NIDA — [Cannabis (Marijuana) DrugFacts](https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/cannabis-marijuana)
