Short-Term Effects of Cannabis Consumption

The short-term effects of cannabis use can be felt within seconds to minutes if you are smoking, vaporizing, or dabbing cannabis. These effects can last up to 24 hours.

If you are eating or drinking cannabis-infused products, the effects can be felt anytime between 30 minutes and 4 hours and can last up to 24 hours.

The effects of cannabis use can be mental and/or physical.

Possible mental effects may include:

• Mood change (euphoria, relaxation, anxiety)
• Increased or stronger sensitivity to certain stimuli (like colors and music)
• Impaired attention and short-term memory
• Panic attacks, paranoia, and hallucinations (more common from consuming high levels of THC and for those with a family history of mental health conditions)
• Altered perception of time
   

Possible physical effects may include:

• Mild or moderate dizziness
• Red eyes
• Dry mouth
• Changes in pulse rate and blood pressure
• Increased appetite
• Tiredness
• Impact on motor skills that may make work or certain tasks more difficult
• Impaired driving ability
   

For more detailed information about cannabis and health, we recommend visiting “Learn About Cannabis WA.”