Medical Cannabis Dosage Chart: A Starting Point

There is no single dose that works for everyone. The right amount depends on your unique body, the condition you are treating, your tolerance, and the product's potency. For new patients, the universal rule is to start low and go slow. A common starting dose is 2.5 mg of THC. Some patients prefer a balanced blend of THC and CBD to reduce psychoactive effects. Use the general chart below as a reference. Always adjust one step at a time, waiting at least two hours before taking more.

General Dosage Chart

The following values are typical for inhaled or sublingual products. Edibles may require lower starting doses because the liver converts THC into a stronger form.

  • Microdose (0–2.5 mg): Appropriate for first-time users, or for those who need mild symptom relief without any intoxication. Good for daily focus.
  • Low dose (2.5–5 mg): The standard starting zone for pain, anxiety, or sleep. Minimal to mild impairment is possible.
  • Moderate dose (5–15 mg): For patients with some tolerance or more severe symptoms. Psychoactive effects are clearly noticeable.
  • High dose (15–30 mg): Reserved for experienced patients with chronic pain or severe sleep issues. Risk of strong side effects increases.
  • Very high dose (30 mg+): Rarely required. Do not attempt without close medical supervision. Many high-THC products exceed 30 mg per serving.

Factors That Affect Your Dose

Your ideal dose is shaped by your body weight and metabolism, the specific condition you are treating, how sensitive you are to THC, whether you have used cannabis before, and how the product is administered. Inhaled cannabis takes effect within minutes and wears off in hours. Edibles may take 30 to 90 minutes to appear and can last six hours or more. Age, gender, and genetics also play a role. CBD-only products have a different dosing profile and do not produce a high.

How to Use the Chart Safely

Treat this chart as a starting point, not a prescription. Follow these steps to develop your own personalized dose. First, choose one product and keep a dosage journal. Second, begin with the smallest dose you think will help. Third, if you feel no effect after the suggested wait time, increase by 2.5 mg on your next session. Do not stack doses on the same day while waiting for effects. Fourth, if you experience dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or anxiety, stop dosing and rest until the effect passes. Over time you will find the lowest effective dose. Discuss your use with a healthcare provider, especially if you are using medical cannabis for a serious condition or take other medications.

Forms of Medical Cannabis and Their Duration

Cannabis products vary in onset and duration. Inhalation (flower or vape) acts fastest, often within seconds or minutes. Tinctures placed under the tongue take effect in 15 to 45 minutes. Edibles and capsules are the slowest, sometimes taking up to two hours. Topicals are absorbed through the skin and provide localized relief without systemic high. Capsules offer consistent dosing and are simple to divide. For each form, start with 2.5 to 5 mg of THC or a CBD-dominant product. The chart above works best for inhalation or sublingual use; adjust accordingly for edibles. Always check the product label for total cannabinoid content per serving.