Starting small and slow: Edible dosing for new users

Today there is breadth of Cannabis options when you visit a dispensary or request a delivery in California. Customers can find everything their taste buds desire when it comes to Cannabis-infused edibles that cover everything from cocktail drinks, gummies, cookies, chocolates, coffee/teas, peanut butter cups, savory snacks and more. When you're ready to consume these edibles, you're probably eager to just dive right in. However, we all know of stories where someone eats more edibles than they actually need as they wait for the effects to kick in.

The good news is that "a fatal overdose caused solely by marijuana is unlikely" as stated by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). However, using too much marijuana can cause severe effects such as confusion, anxiety, paranoia, panic, fast heart rate, increased blood pressure, and nausea. It is important to remember that the right dose also depends on many factors that include your own personal tolerance, body makeup, how the Cannabis is consumed, and if the Cananbis is consumed with alcohol or other drugs. Everyone reacts differently to Cannabis so as a rule of thumb for beginners - please start off with a small dose and do it slowly. This thoughtful approach will help you get to the Cannabis experience that you’re looking for.

First thing to keep in mind is that when it comes to edibles that do not have fast-acting technology, expect an edible to take between 30-60 minutes to kick in. It may actually take longer based on many factors in your body like metabolism or how much food you've eaten.

Here are basic but very helpful guidelines to help you find the right dose, measured in milligrams (mg) - provided by Leafly:

1 – 2.5 mg THC edibles (microdose)

  • Effects: Mild relief of symptoms like pain, stress, and anxiety; increased focus and creativity. Most users do not feel any intoxication at this dose.

  • Who it’s for: First-time consumers or regular consumers looking to microdose.

3 – 5 mg THC edibles (low)

  • Effects: Stronger relief of pain and anxiety symptoms; euphoria; may impair coordination and alter perception. Five milligrams is a dose that can intoxicate some users.

  • Who it’s for: Standard recreational use; consumers seeking relief from persistent symptoms not addressed by smaller doses; people looking for a good night’s sleep.

10 – 15 mg THC edibles (moderate)

  • Effects: Effective relief for pain, nausea and anxiety symptoms; impaired coordination and altered perception;

  • Who it’s for: High-tolerance THC consumers (both recreational consumers and medical patients); unaccustomed consumers may experience adverse effects. This is the maximum single dose for an edible in pieces, such as smaller cookies, gummies, mints, and chocolate bar pieces.

20 – 30 mg THC edibles (high)

  • Effects: Very strong euphoria; very likely to impair coordination and alter perception.

  • Who it’s for: Consumers with significant THC tolerances; patients with decreased GI absorption.

50 – 100 mg THC edibles (very high)

  • Effects: Seriously impaired coordination and perception; increased possibility of adverse side effects, including nausea, anxiety, and increased heart rate.

  • Who it’s for: Experienced, high-tolerance THC consumers; patients living with cancer, inflammatory disorders, or conditions that necessitate high doses.

We hope you find this content helpful. For Pat and I, being in a peaceful place like the comfort of our homes or chilling out at the beach with friends can really enhance the Cannabis experience. Our friends and customers tell us how they love consuming edibles in nature and at concerts. Whatever you decide to do, be safe and have fun!

References:

  • https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/faqs.htm

  • https://www.leafly.com/learn/consume/edibles/edible-dosing


Marisa