Start at 2.5 mg of THC
A first edible dose is 2.5 mg of THC. State health agencies put the beginner range at 1 mg to 2.5 mg. Colorado, California, and Washington cap one adult serving at 10 mg. That serving is four times a starter dose. A 100 mg package holds ten servings.
Edibles work through the liver. THC converts to 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that reaches the blood with more strength than inhaled THC. A 2.5 mg edible can feel stronger than 2.5 mg of smoked flower.
Onset and duration
First effects appear 30 to 60 minutes after eating. A full stomach pushes that to 2 hours. Blood levels peak between hour 2 and hour 4. Effects fade over 6 to 8 hours. Some users report effects returning near hour 12 after a heavy meal.
Cannabis Edible Onset Time and Dosage Guide
The delay causes most bad first experiences. People take a second dose at minute 30. Both doses then arrive at once.
cannabis edible dosage chart milligrams
Wait two hours before dose two
Set a timer. Two hours is the minimum wait at 2.5 mg. If the first dose does nothing after two hours, add 2.5 mg. Do not double the dose.
How to measure 2.5 mg from a package
- A 10 mg gummy divides into 4 pieces.
- A chocolate bar with 10 mg per square: eat a quarter square.
- A 5 mg mint cuts in half.
- A tincture: read the label for mg per mL and measure with the dropper.
Cut gummies with a warm knife. THC may not spread through the whole piece, so a cut piece can hold more or less than the label average.
Factors that change the response
- Body weight and body fat.
- Liver enzyme activity, in particular CYP2C9 and CYP3A4.
- Prior cannabis use and tolerance.
- Other drugs, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and some antidepressants.
- Food in the stomach.
- CBD content, which can shift THC effects.
If the dose is too high
There are no recorded deaths from cannabis overdose alone. Common symptoms: fast heart rate, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, panic, dry mouth, dizziness, and trouble with balance. Rest in a safe place. Drink water. Do not drive. Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for chest pain, severe vomiting, or breathing problems. Call 911 for loss of consciousness.
Label and storage rules
Legal states require child-resistant packaging and a THC symbol. Most states require 21+ ID at purchase. Package caps sit at 100 mg of THC in Colorado and California. Keep edibles away from children and pets. Call Poison Control if a child eats a product.