Ingesting cannabis via gummies, mints, brownies, tinctures and other food products is a growing method of marijuana consumption. It can be a discreet way to get high and produce long-lasting effects that last far longer than a standard smoke. But edibles can also be dangerous if a person is not careful. This is especially true for first-time users of edibles.

The high from smoking weed weed edibles takes minutes to kick in, but it can take up to two hours for the effects of an edible to set in. This is because the body must metabolize the THC from the food before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream, which also makes it difficult to know exactly how much THC you have consumed.

A typical edible can contain a significant amount of THC, and even though many states require the amount of THC per serving to be clearly labeled on the product, the bakeries and dispensaries that make the edibles are not regulated, and there is no guarantee that these amounts are accurate. Additionally, if you eat high-fat foods with an edible, it can slow the time it takes for the THC to enter your system.

Edibles can also be unpredictable because the effects vary based on the person’s metabolism and gastrointestinal issues, as well as the time of day when they consume the edible. It’s important to start with a low dose and wait at least 45-90 minutes before taking more. This is why the term “start low and go slow” has become popular among first-time marijuana consumers.

If you eat too much of a marijuana edible, it can cause a number of unpleasant side effects. These include dry mouth, dizziness, paranoia and anxiety. If a person continues to consume large amounts of marijuana edibles, their body may begin to shut down, resulting in vomiting and loss of consciousness. In extreme cases, a person can overdose and require emergency medical attention.

The good news is that nobody has ever died from eating too much marijuana, but the consequences can be uncomfortable. Unlike opioids, cannabis does not depress the respiratory system, so overdose symptoms are less severe.

Despite the risks, edibles remain a popular form of marijuana consumption. There are now legal marijuana edibles available in 19 states for recreational use and 30 for medicinal purposes. It is important to follow the advice of experts and educate yourself about these new and potentially dangerous methods of marijuana consumption.

If you are struggling with substance abuse, please do not hesitate to reach out to American Addiction Centers for help. We can connect you with a treatment program that is right for your needs and situation. Our centers are located nationwide and in-network with most private insurance companies. Contact us today to speak with an admissions representative and learn more about how we can help you overcome your addiction. You can recover, and you deserve to feel better.