Medical cannabis has become an increasingly popular treatment option for a variety of conditions, from chronic pain and anxiety to epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. But if you’re new to medical cannabis, you might be wondering: How long does it take to work? The answer depends on how you consume it.

Understanding Cannabis Absorption

The time it takes for medical cannabis to take effect varies based on factors such as the method of consumption, individual metabolism, and dosage. Some methods provide rapid relief, while others require more time to take full effect. Let’s break down the different ways to take medical cannabis and how quickly you can expect to feel its effects.

1. Inhalation (Vaping)

Onset Time: Almost immediate (seconds to minutes)

Inhalation is one of the fastest ways to experience the effects of medical cannabis. When you vape or smoke cannabis, the active compounds (such as THC and CBD) enter your lungs and quickly absorb into your bloodstream. Many patients prefer this method for conditions requiring fast relief, such as sudden pain flare-ups, anxiety, or nausea.

Pros:

• Rapid onset of effects
• Easy to control dosage
• Ideal for immediate symptom relief

Cons:

• Effects wear off faster than other methods (typically within 2–4 hours)
• Not suitable for individuals with respiratory issues

2. Oils & Tinctures (Sublingual Administration)

Onset Time: 45–60 minutes

Oils and tinctures are taken by placing drops under the tongue, where they are absorbed through the mucous membranes. This method is faster than edibles but slower than inhalation. The effects are typically felt within 45 to 60 minutes and can last for 4–6 hours.

Pros:

• More discreet than smoking or vaping
• Longer-lasting effects compared to inhalation
• Easy to dose accurately

Cons:

• Slower onset than inhalation
• Some people dislike the taste of cannabis oils

3. Edibles & Capsules

Onset Time: Up to 1 hour (sometimes longer)

Edibles and capsules take the longest to kick in because they must be digested and metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. The effects can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully develop, depending on factors like metabolism, stomach contents, and the specific product used.

The delayed onset can sometimes lead to accidental overconsumption, as individuals may take more before feeling the initial dose’s effects. However, once the effects set in, they tend to last much longer than with other methods – typically 6–8 hours.

Pros:

• Long-lasting effects
• No inhalation required
• Ideal for chronic conditions requiring sustained relief

Cons:

• Slow onset may make dosing tricky
• Effects can be stronger and longer-lasting than expected

Why Does Everyone React Differently?

While general timelines exist for each method, everyone’s body reacts differently to medical cannabis. Several factors influence how quickly and strongly cannabis affects you, including:

• Metabolism: Faster metabolisms may process cannabis more quickly.
• Body Weight & Composition: THC is fat-soluble, so body fat percentage can influence effects.
• Tolerance Level: Regular users may require higher doses to feel the same effects.
• Empty vs. Full Stomach: Consuming edibles on an empty stomach may speed up absorption.

Finding What Works Best for You

Choosing the right method of consumption depends on your medical needs, lifestyle, personal preferences and condition. If you need fast relief, inhalation might be the best option. If you prefer longer-lasting effects, edibles or oils may work better.

Medical cannabis can be an effective treatment, but understanding how long it takes to work is crucial for managing symptoms effectively. Experimenting with different methods and tracking your experiences can help you find the best approach for your needs. Always start low and go slow – your body will tell you what works best! If you’re new to medical cannabis, have questions about dosing, or are unsure which method suits you best, complete our quick eligibility form here, and one of our team members will be in touch with you.