How Long Do THC Drinks Last? What To Expect | 1906

THC beverages, like our 1906 THC-Infused Spirit, have become hugely popular in recent years. They offer a healthier alternative to smoking cannabis and drinking alcohol, making them a great option for social gatherings or kicking back and relaxing alone.

But how long do THC drinks last? And how do they compare to edibles? If you're new to the world of THC-infused beverages, here are all your questions answered.

What Are the Effects of THC Drinks?

Like with any THC product, you are going to get a buzz from consuming THC-infused drinks.

However, many people describe it as a smoother experience compared to edibles or smoking. You'll feel relaxed and happy yet maintain a clear head, and this is one of the biggest draws for people who prefer beverages over other methods.

Another great thing about THC drinks is that they don't dehydrate you as much as smoking does. So, unless you also consume alcohol (which we don't recommend), there's no hangover or grogginess to worry about the next day.

When Do THC Drinks Kick in and for How Long?

Although you can expect a THC drink to last up to six hours, it definitely doesn't hit all at once. It's more of a slow, easy ride that's easier to manage.

Onset time (15 mins - 30 mins)

THC drinks take less time than traditional edibles to kick in.

This is because THC-infused drinks are nano-emulsified, a process that breaks down THC into water-soluble particles. This allows for faster absorption via the stomach and small intestine.

Therefore, you can expect to start feeling the effects roughly 15 to 30 minutes after consuming (sometimes even longer). This predictable onset gives you a gentle buzz and makes you feel more relaxed.

Peak effect ( 1 - 2 hours)

Expect the apex of the effects to last around one to two hours. This is when you'll definitely feel high, but it shouldn't be overwhelming if you've dosed correctly.

Total duration (4 - 6 hours)

The total duration can last anywhere between four and six hours. However, this greatly depends on various factors that we have outlined below.

After the peak effect has decreased, your high will gradually taper off and fade until you feel "normal" again.

Factors That Affect the Duration

As mentioned, several factors will affect how long your high lasts:

Type of drink: Carbonated drinks like THC-infused seltzers accelerate the absorption of THC, resulting in a quicker onset yet shorter high. If you pick a drink that also contains CBD, then expect a gentler overall high.
Body weight: Since THC is stored in the body's fat tissues, those with a high body mass can find that THC drinks last longer for them.
Metabolism: If you have a high metabolism, then you will process the THC faster, meaning it wears off sooner.
THC dosage: A small dose will feel light and wear off quicker, while too much THC will feel intense.
Full or empty stomach: If you consume cannabis drinks on an empty stomach, expect a faster onset and an intense high. In contrast, drinking on a full stomach results in a delayed onset but a longer-lasting, more controlled high.
Tolerance level: If you're used to drinking THC beverages, the effects will feel less intense and will wear off sooner, and vice versa.

How to Maximize the Effects of Cannabis Beverages

Want to get the best out of your high? Try these tips to make your THC drinks hit better:

Choose a reliable brand. For instance, our Off Duty THC shots can be mixed with any drink, allowing you to better control the experience.
For a more balanced experience, pick cannabis drinks that are also infused with CBD.
Eat a light snack or meal 30-60 minutes before drinking. Something with a high-fat content is best (think nuts, avocado, cheese, or yoghurt). Fat increases the blood levels of THC and its 11‑hydroxy metabolite, giving a longer, more intense effect.
Sip slowly over the course of an hour. This smooths absorption and the overall high.
Avoid alcohol when you consume THC drinks because it can quickly impair your ability to judge the right dose. Additionally, alcohol can increase the effects of THC and lead to nausea and blackouts.
Exercise patience. If the onset is taking a while, don't immediately go and chug another drink. Wait at least 45 minutes to an hour before consuming more.
Stay hydrated. Even though you're consuming a beverage, you still need to top yourself up with water, since cannabis can dehydrate you.

THC Beverages vs. Edibles

Weighing up the pros and cons of THC drinks vs. edibles is important because they both hit differently.

Since THC drinks typically use nano-emulsification, they absorb more quickly and have a faster onset. But the trade-off is a shorter duration.

In contrast, edibles go through the full digestive process, which delays the onset but prolongs the effects (up to eight hours).

Then there's the dosage. Edibles contain potent 11-hydroxy-THC and are generally available in higher doses. While this enables a stronger buzz, it's easy to overdo it.

Unlike traditional edibles, THC drinks come in lower doses, offering a less intense high that's easier to control.

High Dose vs. Moderate Dose vs. Low Dose

How much THC should you go for? It depends on your experience and how you want to feel:

Low-dose THC drink (2 - 5 mg per serving): Makes you feel light and buzzy. Perfect for beginners and social settings.
Moderate dose (10 mg per serving): You typically feel more chill, yet you can still function. A good option for relaxation.
High dose (15 - 20 mg per serving: The most intense buzz, best for frequent users with a high tolerance.

You can also use THC drinks for microdosing. So, if you want the benefits of THC without the psychoactive effects, go for around 1-2.5 mg per serving.

FAQs

Are THC drinks better than edibles?

THC drinks can be better than edibles because they are easier to control and give a milder, manageable high. In contrast, edibles are more powerful and longer-lasting, but it's easier to overdo them.

In the end, it comes down to what you're looking for in a cannabis product.

Choose cannabis infused drinks for fast-acting effects, yet a gentler experience, and an edible for something more prolonged and intense.

How long does a 10 mg THC drink buzz last?

A 10 mg THC drink can provide a buzz that lasts up to six hours, with peak effects lasting around one to two hours.

However, the duration of the effects will depend on your body weight and metabolism, and whether or not you have eaten beforehand.

How many THC drinks get you high?

One THC drink will get you high as long as you pick the right dosage for your tolerance level.

Newcomers will generally get high on a drink containing 5 mg of THC, while experienced users might need up to 20 mg.

Do THC seltzers show up in a drug test?

Yes. THC seltzers will absolutely show up in a drug test.

Testing doesn't differentiate between the methods of consumption. It simply detects and measures the levels of THC metabolites that are in your system.

The Bottom Line on THC Drinks

We're big fans of THC drinks, and we're confident that from the first sip, you will be too! It's a great way to enjoy cannabis in a safe and controlled manner, especially for those who are new to the cannabis experience.

Just be sure to pick a dose that matches your individual tolerance, drink slowly, and avoid mixing with alcohol.