Onset and Duration

When using cannabis, it is important to know the THC concentration of different products, how quickly they can take effect, and how long the effects last. The chart below provides guidelines. 

 

Consumption
Method
Types of Cannabis Products Onset of Effects Duration of Effects
Inhalation Pre-Rolls, Flower, Vape Pens, Concentrates Rapid
(almost immediately -
10 minutes)
Shorter
(1-3 hours)
Topicals Lotions, Salves Intermediate
(30 minutes-1 hour)
Shorter
(1-3 hours)
Sublingual Ingestion (drops under the tongue) Tinctures Rapid
(10 min-30 min)
Shorter
(1-3 hours)
Ingestion Edibles, Capsules, Drinks Slower
(1-4 hours)
Longer
(4-12 hours)