How Long Do Edibles Keep You High?

Edibles have become one of the most popular ways to consume cannabis in the United States. From flavorful gummies to decadent chocolates and baked goods, cannabis-infused treats offer a discreet, smoke-free experience that many users prefer. But one question continues to come up for both beginners and seasoned consumers:

How long do edibles keep you high?

Understanding how long do edibles last, when do edibles peak, and even the potential side effects of edibles the next day can help you plan a safe, enjoyable experience. Whether you’re trying a THC gummy for the first time or you’re looking to fine-tune your dosage, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

If you’re shopping for premium, lab-tested edibles, you can explore a wide selection at Get Bud Online, your trusted US-based online weed dispensary.

How Long Do Edibles Last?

The short answer: Edibles typically last between 4 to 8 hours, but in some cases, effects can extend up to 12 hours or more.

However, the real answer depends on several factors, including:

• Dosage (how many milligrams of THC you consume)

• Your body weight and metabolism

• Your tolerance level

• Whether you’ve eaten recently

• The type of edible (gummy, chocolate, beverage, etc.)

Average Timeline of an Edible High

Here’s a general breakdown of what most users experience:

• 0–60 minutes: No noticeable effects yet (sometimes up to 2 hours)

• 1–2 hours: Effects begin to build

• 2–4 hours: Peak effects

• 4–8 hours: Gradual tapering off

• 8+ hours: Mild lingering effects (for higher doses)

For many people, the most intense portion of the high lasts 3–5 hours. But if you take a higher dose (20mg+ THC), you could feel effects much longer.

If you’re wondering specifically how long does a high last gummy, the answer is usually the same as other edibles — 4 to 8 hours — though gummies are known for consistent, predictable effects when properly dosed.

Why Edibles Last Longer Than Smoking

If you’ve smoked or vaped cannabis before, you probably noticed the high kicks in quickly but fades within 1–3 hours. Edibles are completely different.

Here’s why:

When you smoke cannabis, THC enters your bloodstream through your lungs and goes directly to your brain.

When you eat cannabis, THC is processed by your digestive system and metabolized in the liver. The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a compound that:

• Is more potent

• Crosses the blood-brain barrier more easily

• Produces longer-lasting effects

This metabolic process explains why:

• Edibles take longer to kick in

• The high feels stronger or more intense

• The effects last significantly longer

When Do Edibles Peak?

A very common question is: When do edibles peak?

For most people, edibles peak between 2 to 4 hours after consumption.

However, several factors can shift this timeline:

1. Empty vs. Full Stomach

• Empty stomach: Faster onset (30–60 minutes), earlier peak

• Full stomach: Slower onset (1.5–2 hours), delayed peak

2. Metabolism

People with faster metabolisms may feel effects sooner and come down faster. Slower metabolisms can result in delayed onset and longer-lasting highs.

3. Dosage

Higher doses may:

• Take slightly longer to peak

• Produce stronger, more prolonged peak effects

Typical Peak Experience

During the peak phase, you may feel:

• Intense euphoria

• Deep relaxation

• Altered perception of time

• Heightened sensory awareness

• Increased appetite

For beginners, this is often the most overwhelming stage. That’s why it’s crucial to start low and wait at least 2 hours before taking more.

How Long Does a High Last Gummy Specifically?

THC gummies are one of the most popular marijuana edible formats in the US. They’re discreet, portable, and accurately dosed.

So, how long does a high last gummy?

For most users:

• 5mg THC gummy: 4–6 hours

• 10mg THC gummy: 6–8 hours

• 20mg+ THC gummy: 8–12 hours (sometimes longer)

Gummies tend to produce reliable effects because manufacturers carefully measure THC content. At Get Bud Online, all edibles are lab-tested to ensure consistent dosing, so you know exactly what you’re consuming.

If you’re new to edibles, start with 5mg THC and wait a full 2 hours before deciding whether to take more.

How Long Do Edibles Last for Beginners vs. Experienced Users?

Tolerance plays a big role in how long edibles last.

Beginners

• Stronger effects

• Longer perceived duration

• Higher chance of discomfort at higher doses

• 6–10 hours of noticeable effects (even at moderate doses)

Regular Cannabis Users

• Faster onset (sometimes)

• Shorter duration

• Less intense peak

• 4–6 hours typical duration

If you’re new, resist the temptation to “feel something faster.” Taking more too soon is the most common mistake people make with edibles.

Factors That Affect How Long Edibles Last

Several variables influence how long your edible high lasts:

1. Dosage (Most Important Factor)

• 2.5–5mg THC → Mild, manageable high

• 10mg THC → Moderate

• 20mg+ THC → Strong, long-lasting

Higher doses = longer highs.

2. Body Composition

THC is fat-soluble, meaning it binds to fat cells. People with higher body fat percentages may metabolize THC differently.

3. Hydration Levels

Dehydration can intensify side effects like headaches and fatigue.

4. Type of Edible

• Gummies and candies → Predictable digestion

• Baked goods → Slower breakdown

• THC drinks → Faster onset in some cases

Side Effects of Edibles the Next Day

Another frequent concern is the side effects of edibles the next day.

Most people wake up feeling normal after moderate doses. However, higher doses can cause what some call an “edible hangover.”

Common Next-Day Side Effects

• Grogginess

• Brain fog

• Mild headache

• Dry mouth

• Fatigue

• Low motivation

These symptoms are usually mild and fade within a few hours.

Why Do Next-Day Effects Happen?

High doses of THC can linger in your system. Additionally:

• Poor sleep quality

• Dehydration

• Overconsumption

• Mixing with alcohol

All increase the likelihood of next-day side effects.

To avoid unwanted after-effects:

• Stay hydrated

• Avoid mixing substances

• Stick to moderate doses

• Consume earlier in the evening

How to Make Your Edible High Last Shorter (If You Took Too Much)

If your edible high feels too intense or long-lasting, here are some tips:

1. Stay Calm

Remember: You cannot overdose fatally on THC. The effects will pass.

2. Hydrate

Drink water or electrolyte beverages.

3. Eat Light Snacks

Food can help your body metabolize THC more steadily.

4. Try CBD

CBD may help reduce anxiety associated with high THC doses.

5. Rest

Lie down in a calm, comfortable environment.

Time is the biggest factor — the high will gradually fade.

How to Control How Long Edibles Last

If you want better control over your experience:

Start Low and Go Slow

Begin with 5mg THC.

Time It Right

If you don’t want next-day grogginess, avoid taking edibles right before bed. Take them 3–4 hours before sleep instead.

Choose Reputable Brands

Quality matters. Poorly made edibles can contain inconsistent THC levels.

At Get Bud Online, every product is lab-tested and clearly labeled, so you can shop confidently and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Are Edibles Stronger Than Smoking?

Many users say yes — and scientifically, they can be.

Because edibles convert THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, the effects are often:

• More body-focused

• Longer-lasting

• More psychoactive

• More immersive

For people seeking long-lasting pain relief or relaxation, edibles are often the preferred option.

How Long Do Edibles Stay in Your System?

While the high may last 4–8 hours, THC can remain detectable in your body for days or weeks, depending on usage frequency.

• Occasional users: 3–7 days

• Regular users: 10–30 days

• Heavy users: 30+ days

This varies based on metabolism and testing type.

Final Thoughts: How Long Do Edibles Keep You High?

So, how long do edibles last?

For most people:

• 4–8 hours of noticeable effects

• Peak at 2–4 hours

• Mild after-effects possible the next day at high doses

If you’re asking when do edibles peak, expect the strongest effects around the 2–4 hour mark.

If you’re wondering how long does a high last gummy, plan for 6–8 hours, depending on dosage.

And if you’re concerned about side effects of edibles the next day, those are usually mild and preventable with proper dosing and hydration.

The key to a great edible experience is simple:
Start low, go slow, and choose quality products.

Shop Premium Edibles at Get Bud Online

Looking for delicious, accurately dosed THC gummies and edibles delivered discreetly across the US?

At Get Bud Online, we offer:

• Lab-tested THC gummies

• Clearly labeled dosages

• Fast, secure shipping

• Premium cannabis brands

• Competitive pricing

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, we make it easy to find the perfect edible for your needs.

Browse our collection today and discover why so many customers trust Get Bud Online for safe, reliable cannabis products.

Your perfect high starts here.

References:

Johnson, J. Medically reviewed by Theisen, E., RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC. (2024, February 5). How long does an edible last?. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-do-edibles-last 

Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. (June 2019). Cannabis: Inhaling vs Ingesting. Available at: https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2019-06/CCSA-Cannabis-Inhaling-Ingesting-Risks-Infographic-2019-en_1.pdf 

Edmund M. (2022, June 10). Medically reviewed by Dr. Aaron W. (2025, May 11). How Long Do THC Edibles Stay In Your System?. Available at: https://recovered.org/marijuana/edibles/how-long-do-edibles-stay-in-your-system

Dr. Dan Roden, MD