Taking a Second Edible Dose Too Soon
Why a second portion taken early is the most common edible mistake, and a simple plan to avoid it.
Short answer: a second edible dose too soon is a common mistake because edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start, and up to 4 hours to reach full effect, according to Health Canada. Taking more before the first portion has arrived means both can arrive together.
Why it happens
Edibles are slow. After an hour with no effect, it is natural to think the portion was too small. But Health Canada describes onset of up to 2 hours, and full effect up to 4 hours. The first portion may simply not have arrived.
What to do instead
- Take one portion. Start with 2.5 mg of THC or less, as Health Canada suggests.
- Note the time.
- Wait a full two hours.
- If nothing has happened, it may still be coming. Stopping for the day is a sensible choice, and you can talk to your health professional about what to do next.
Common mistakes
- Taking more at 45 minutes.
- Combining edibles with alcohol, which raises THC levels and impairment.
- Eating a second item from the same batch to be sure.
- Planning to drive.
If you took too much
If someone has chest pain, cannot be roused or is very distressed, call emergency services or your poison centre. Do not wait.
See how long do edibles take to work and why edibles and inhaled cannabis differ in onset.
General information, not medical advice.
Sources
- Health Canada, what you need to know if you choose to consume cannabis, canada.ca.
- US CDC, Cannabis and poisoning, cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/poisoning.html.
Last updated .
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