Weed edibles are, for many people, a popular means of achieving a long-lasting and pleasant high. But exactly how long does a marijuana high last? Of course, the answer to the question depends on several factors and can be different for each person.
What is important to understand about marijuana gummies and edibles of any kind is that their effects can be unpredictable and even dangerous. In order to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, it is important to know the potential effects edibles can have and how long they can last.
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana is a mixture of the flowers derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, which has long been used for its ability to produce psychoactive and intoxicating effects. In the U.S., marijuana is typically used recreationally, although it has been legalized for medicinal purposes in several states.
Marijuana is often referred to by nicknames such as weed, herb, grass, Mary Jane, and various others. It is popularly used through smoking or oral ingestion in the form of teas or edible foods. This includes eating marijuana gummies, which can contain up to 10 mg of cannabis per gummy.
THC gummies can produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation, making them a popular substance of use amongst those looking to get high, as well as those who use marijuana for managing chronic pain or other health issues.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
Despite popular belief that marijuana is a non-addictive substance, repetitive long-term use of cannabis can become habit-forming. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, around 30% of people who use this substance likely fit the criteria for having a marijuana use disorder.
Of course, there is a difference between addictive and habitual use. Someone who has a habit of using marijuana may find themselves smoking or eating an edible several times a week or even once a day but is able to stop their use without any significant issues.
An addiction, on the other hand, is characterized by an inability to control one’s use of this substance. This happens when the brain becomes used to and dependent on the chemical interactions that occur when THC is consumed.
There are several signs that can indicate if someone is struggling with a marijuana use disorder, including:
- Needing to take higher doses of marijuana over time to achieve the desired effect.
- Using marijuana at inappropriate times, such as while at work, school, or while driving.
- Continuing to use weed despite this causing or worsening medical or mental health issues.
- Becoming more secretive or withdrawn from friends, family, and loved ones.
- Developing withdrawal symptoms when cutting back or stopping the use of marijuana.
If you or a loved one is showing any of the signs listed above, it is important to seek help. Marijuana addiction can have long-lasting effects and even lead to other forms of substance abuse. Professional treatment can help you safely stop using marijuana and start living a healthier lifestyle.
How Long Do Weed Gummies Last?
There are many different types of edibles people can use, including brownies and baked goods, chocolates, teas and other beverages, and, of course, gummies. Weed gummies are one of the most popular choices for edibles due to their wide availability and minimal effort to acquire.
It can be difficult to estimate the exact amount of time side effects will last after taking an edible due to the various factors that can influence this timeline. Some of the things that can alter how long a weed gummy will last include:
- The gummy’s half-life
- The amount of THC used in the gummy
- The ingredients used for making the gummy
- The number of gummies consumed
Generally, it will take about 30 minutes for the effects of a weed gummy to kick in and around four hours for these effects to peak. For some people, it can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours for the effects of a weed gummy to fully pass.
Of course, just because a person’s side effects may dissipate, this does not mean the weed has fully left their system. In most cases, it can take anywhere from one to two weeks for marijuana to fully leave the system. This is something to keep in mind if someone who has been taking edibles has an upcoming drug test or other medical appointment.
Are Weed Gummies Dangerous?
While many people believe weed gummies and other edibles to be generally safe for consumption, this is not always the case. There are several risks to be aware of when using weed gummies, some of which can be severe.
One of the biggest potential dangers of taking weed gummies is the risk of taking too much at one time. Edibles can take longer for their effects to be felt, with an onset of anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
This gap can lead people to take more than originally intended, leading to more intense side effects once the edible does kick in. As a result, the person may experience an overdose, also known as acute marijuana intoxication or “greening out.”
This can lead to a variety of serious negative side effects, including:
- Drowsiness
- Disorientation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Agitation
- Psychosis
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
- Impaired motor ability
- Respiratory depression
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart attack
Weed gummies can also worsen anxiety and depression in those with pre-existing symptoms, potentially leading to more severe cases of paranoia and suicidal ideations. Being aware of the serious side effects that can develop as a result of these gummies can help you make safe and informed decisions and seek help if necessary.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment at RLC
At Royal Life Centers, we understand the serious toll that substance abuse and addiction can have on your life. That is why our treatment programs offer a full continuum of care for a wide variety of substance use disorders, including marijuana addiction.
Some of the treatment services you will have access to while recovering at one of our marijuana addiction treatment facilities include:
- Inpatient programs
- Aftercare programs
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Evidence-based and holistic therapies
- Medication-assisted treatment
No matter the severity of your substance abuse issues or personal treatment preferences, we offer a variety of services to meet each of your care needs. Call us at 877-RECOVERY today to learn more about our treatment programs and how you can get started on the path to recovery today!
