How Long Do Edibles Last? Duration Guide for NJ Consumers
How long do edibles last? Most cannabis edibles produce effects for 4-8 hours, with peak at 2-3 hours. Full duration guide by edible type, dose, and body factors.
You ate the edible an hour ago. The effects are building nicely. But now you are wondering: how long is this going to last? Whether you are planning your evening, figuring out when you will be okay to drive, or just want to know what to expect, understanding edible duration is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
The short answer is that most cannabis edibles last between 4 and 8 hours, but the full answer depends on what you ate, how much THC was in it, your body chemistry, and several other factors. This guide covers everything NJ consumers need to know about edible duration, from onset to afterglow, so you can plan your experience with confidence.
If you are brand new to edibles, start with our cannabis edibles dosing guide for beginners first. Already familiar with edibles but wondering about onset timing? Our guide to edible onset times covers when to expect the effects to begin.
Quick Summary
- Standard duration: 4-8 hours for most edibles at typical doses (5-10mg THC)
- Peak effects: Usually occur 2-3 hours after consumption
- Onset time: 30-90 minutes for standard edibles, 15-30 for nano/fast-acting
- Longer than smoking: Edibles last 2-4x longer than inhaled cannabis
- Key variable: Dose is the single biggest factor in how long edibles last
- Beginner tip: Start with 2.5-5mg and wait at least 2 hours before taking more
The Quick Answer: How Long Do Edibles Last?
For a standard cannabis edible at a typical recreational dose of 5-10mg THC, you can expect the following timeline:
Onset
30-90 min
Time until you feel the first effects
Peak
2-3 hours
When effects are strongest
Total Duration
4-8 hours
How long you will feel effects
Afterglow
2-4 hours
Mild residual effects after the main high
Those numbers represent the average experience, but individual results vary significantly. A 5mg gummy might last 4 hours for a regular consumer with a built-up tolerance, while the same gummy could produce effects lasting 6-8 hours for a first-timer. Higher doses (20mg and above) can produce effects that last 10-12 hours or even longer, which is why proper dosing matters so much.
The duration of an edible high is substantially longer than smoking or vaping. When you smoke cannabis, the effects typically last 1 to 3 hours. Edibles produce a longer, more sustained experience because of how your body processes THC when it passes through the digestive system rather than the lungs. We will explain exactly why in the next section.
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Browse MenuHow Edibles Work in Your Body
Understanding why edibles last longer than smoking starts with understanding what happens after you swallow a cannabis-infused product. The journey from your mouth to your brain takes a completely different path compared to inhaled cannabis, and that path is what creates the longer, more intense experience.
Digestion (0-45 minutes)
After you eat an edible, it travels to your stomach where it begins to break down. THC is released from the food matrix and absorbed through the walls of your stomach and small intestine. This process takes time, which is why you do not feel anything immediately. How much food is already in your stomach affects how quickly this happens.
First-Pass Liver Metabolism (30-90 minutes)
This is the critical step that makes edibles different from smoking. THC absorbed from your gut travels directly to your liver through the portal vein. Your liver converts delta-9-THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently and produces stronger psychoactive effects. This is why the same milligram amount feels more intense when eaten than when smoked.
Peak Effects (2-3 hours)
11-hydroxy-THC reaches peak concentrations in your blood around 2 to 3 hours after consumption. This is when you feel the strongest effects. The combination of the more potent metabolite and the slow, sustained absorption from your digestive tract creates a longer plateau of effects compared to the rapid spike and decline you get from smoking.
Gradual Decline (3-8+ hours)
Your liver continues to process and eliminate THC and its metabolites over the following hours. Because the THC is being absorbed slowly from your digestive system, your body receives a sustained stream of cannabinoids rather than a single burst. This creates the extended duration that edibles are known for. Effects gradually taper off rather than ending abruptly.
Why 11-Hydroxy-THC Matters
The liver conversion of THC to 11-hydroxy-THC is the key reason edibles feel different from smoking. This metabolite is estimated to be 1.5 to 7 times more potent at activating cannabinoid receptors in the brain. It is also why 10mg of THC in an edible can feel much stronger than 10mg inhaled. This conversion only happens efficiently when THC passes through the digestive system, which is why edibles produce a uniquely powerful and long-lasting experience. Learn more in our THC and THCA guide.
How Long Do Different Types of Edibles Last?
Not all edibles follow the same timeline. The format of the edible, how it is made, and how your body absorbs it all influence how quickly effects begin and how long they last. Here is a breakdown of the most common edible types available at NJ dispensaries.
THC Gummies
Onset
30-60 min
Peak
2-3 hours
Total Duration
4-6 hours
Gummies are the most popular edible format in New Jersey and for good reason. Each piece contains a precise dose, usually 5mg or 10mg of THC, making it easy to control your experience. Gummies dissolve relatively quickly in the stomach compared to baked goods, so onset tends to be on the faster side for traditional edibles. The sugar content helps with absorption. Duration is typically 4 to 6 hours at standard doses, though higher doses will extend this. Gummies are the format our budtenders at The Library in West Orange recommend most for beginners because of their consistency and ease of dosing. Check our best THC edibles in NJ guide for our top gummy picks.
Brownies, Cookies, and Baked Goods
Onset
45-90 min
Peak
2-4 hours
Total Duration
6-8 hours
Baked goods like brownies, cookies, and chocolate bars tend to last longer than gummies. The higher fat content in these products plays a role. THC is fat-soluble, meaning it binds to fats and oils. Baked goods made with cannabis butter or oil contain substantial fat, which means THC is absorbed more slowly and sustained over a longer period. The dense food matrix also slows digestion, extending the absorption window. Traditional homemade brownies are notoriously unpredictable in dosing, which is why dispensary-produced baked goods with precise labeling are the safer option. A single homemade brownie can contain anywhere from 10mg to 100mg or more, making the duration wildly variable.
Cannabis-Infused Drinks
Onset
15-30 min
Peak
1-2 hours
Total Duration
2-4 hours
Cannabis beverages are the fastest-acting edible category. Many use nano-emulsion technology that breaks THC into tiny particles that can be absorbed through the stomach lining and mouth tissue, partially bypassing the slower digestive pathway. This means quicker onset but also shorter duration. Think of cannabis drinks as the middle ground between smoking and traditional edibles. They are gaining popularity for social situations where you want a controlled, time-limited experience similar to having an alcoholic drink. Learn more in our cannabis drinks guide.
Tinctures and Sublingual Products
Onset
15-45 min
Peak
1-2 hours
Total Duration
4-6 hours
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts designed to be held under your tongue (sublingual) for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. When used sublingually, THC absorbs through the blood vessels under the tongue, partially bypassing the digestive system. This means faster onset than a gummy but with a duration that falls between drinks and traditional edibles. If you swallow a tincture without holding it under your tongue, it behaves like a standard edible with the full digestive process. Tinctures offer excellent dose control because you can measure precise amounts using the included dropper.
Chocolates and Hard Candies
Onset
30-60 min
Peak
2-3 hours
Total Duration
4-6 hours
Cannabis chocolates contain cocoa butter, a fat that aids THC absorption, typically producing effects similar to gummies in terms of duration. Hard candies and mints are interesting because if you suck on them rather than chew and swallow, some THC absorbs through the mouth lining (similar to sublingual absorption), which can speed up onset slightly. Chocolates are a popular gift format and a pleasant way to consume cannabis for people who do not enjoy the taste of gummies. Duration is comparable to gummies at similar doses.
Nano and Fast-Acting Edibles
Onset
10-20 min
Peak
45-90 min
Total Duration
2-4 hours
Nano-emulsified and fast-acting edibles use technology to break THC into microscopic particles that absorb faster. These products are designed to address the biggest complaint about edibles: the long wait time. The tradeoff is a shorter overall duration. Fast-acting edibles behave more like a hybrid between smoking and traditional edibles. They are ideal for consumers who want the convenience of an edible without committing to a 6-8 hour experience. Ask our budtenders about nano options when you visit The Library.
Edible Duration Comparison Table
Quick reference comparing onset, peak, and total duration across all edible types. Scroll right on mobile to see all columns.
| Edible Type | Onset Time | Peak Effects | Total Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THC Gummies | 30-60 min | 2-3 hours | 4-6 hours | Consistent dosing, beginners |
| Baked Goods | 45-90 min | 2-4 hours | 6-8 hours | Longest duration, full experience |
| Cannabis Drinks | 15-30 min | 1-2 hours | 2-4 hours | Social settings, shorter sessions |
| Tinctures (sublingual) | 15-45 min | 1-2 hours | 4-6 hours | Precise dosing, flexible timing |
| Chocolates | 30-60 min | 2-3 hours | 4-6 hours | Enjoyable experience, gifts |
| Hard Candies / Mints | 20-45 min | 1.5-2.5 hours | 3-5 hours | Discreet, moderate duration |
| Fast-Acting / Nano | 10-20 min | 45-90 min | 2-4 hours | Quick onset, controlled sessions |
| Smoking (for comparison) | Seconds | 10-30 min | 1-3 hours | Immediate effects, short duration |
These timelines are averages based on standard doses (5-10mg THC) for adults with moderate experience. Individual results vary significantly based on tolerance, metabolism, body weight, and other factors discussed below. Higher doses will extend all timelines.
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Get DirectionsFactors That Affect How Long Edibles Last
Two people can eat the exact same edible and have noticeably different experiences in terms of both intensity and duration. Here are the main factors that influence how long an edible lasts for you personally.
1. THC Dose (The Biggest Factor)
Dose is the single most important variable in how long an edible lasts. The relationship is straightforward: more THC means longer effects. Your body needs more time to metabolize and eliminate a larger amount of THC. Here is a general guideline:
2.5-5mg
Microdose
3-5 hours
Mild
5-10mg
Standard
4-6 hours
Moderate
10-25mg
Strong
6-8 hours
Intense
25mg+
Heavy
8-12+ hours
Very Intense
For detailed dosing guidance, read our edibles dosing guide or our microdosing guide.
2. Tolerance Level
Regular cannabis consumers develop tolerance, which means their cannabinoid receptors become less sensitive to THC over time. For someone who consumes edibles daily, a 10mg dose might produce effects lasting 3 to 4 hours. For an infrequent consumer, the same 10mg could last 6 to 8 hours with stronger intensity throughout. If you are new to cannabis or returning after a break, start lower than you think you need. Your tolerance is lower than you might expect, and edibles will last longer and hit harder than they would for a regular consumer. Our first-time dispensary guide has helpful tips for new consumers.
3. Metabolism and Body Composition
Your metabolic rate affects how quickly your body processes THC. People with faster metabolisms tend to feel effects sooner but for a shorter duration. Those with slower metabolisms may experience a longer onset but also longer-lasting effects. Body fat percentage also matters because THC is fat-soluble and can be stored in fat cells, potentially extending the tail end of the experience. Age, activity level, and overall health all play roles in your metabolic rate. Younger, more active individuals generally process edibles faster than older or more sedentary individuals, though genetics can override these general trends.
4. Food in Your Stomach
Whether you have eaten recently affects both onset and duration. Taking an edible on an empty stomach typically means faster onset (sometimes as fast as 20 minutes) but potentially more intense and slightly shorter effects. A full stomach slows absorption, meaning later onset but a more gradual, sustained experience. Fatty foods are particularly relevant because THC is fat-soluble. Eating something with healthy fats, like avocado or nuts, within an hour of consuming an edible can increase THC absorption by a significant margin. This does not necessarily make the effects last longer, but it can make them stronger.
5. Cannabinoid and Terpene Profile
The specific cannabinoids and terpenes in an edible affect the experience beyond just THC content. CBD can modulate and extend the effects while potentially reducing anxiety. CBN, often present in aged cannabis products, is associated with drowsiness and can make the sedating effects linger longer. Indica-dominant edibles with myrcene may produce a longer-lasting body high, while sativa-dominant edibles with limonene may produce a more energetic but potentially shorter experience. Learn more about how terpenes shape your experience in our cannabis terpenes guide.
6. Individual Biology and Genetics
Everyone has a slightly different endocannabinoid system. Some people naturally produce more of the liver enzymes (CYP2C9 and CYP3A4) that process THC, which means they metabolize edibles faster. Others have genetic variations that slow this process, leading to longer and more intense experiences from the same dose. This is why two friends can share the same edible and report very different durations. It is not about willpower or experience. It is biology. The only way to learn your personal response pattern is to start low, track your experiences, and build from there.
How Long Do Edibles Stay in Your System?
There is an important distinction between how long you feel the effects of an edible and how long THC remains detectable in your body. The psychoactive effects of an edible may last 4 to 8 hours, but THC metabolites persist in your system much longer. This matters for drug testing, driving, and understanding how your body processes cannabis.
| Test Type | Single Use | Regular Use | Daily Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urine | 3-5 days | 7-21 days | 30+ days |
| Blood | 1-2 days | 3-7 days | 7+ days |
| Saliva | 1-3 days | 1-3 days | 1-3 days |
| Hair | Up to 90 days | Up to 90 days | Up to 90 days |
THC metabolites, primarily THC-COOH, are stored in fat cells and released slowly over time. This is why frequent consumers can test positive for weeks after their last use. The detection window is based on frequency of use, not on whether you smoked or ate the cannabis. Edibles do not stay in your system longer than smoking per se, though the higher bioavailability of 11-hydroxy-THC from edibles may contribute to slightly higher metabolite levels after a single use.
For NJ consumers, it is worth noting that while recreational cannabis is legal in New Jersey, employers may still conduct drug testing. Understanding these detection windows helps you make informed decisions. Check our NJ cannabis laws guide for the latest on employment protections and legal considerations.
Driving After Edibles
Never drive under the influence of cannabis. Because edibles last significantly longer than smoking, you need to plan for a much longer window before driving. As a general guideline, wait at least 8 hours after consuming a standard edible dose, and longer for higher doses. Impairment can persist even after you feel the main effects have worn off due to residual metabolite activity. New Jersey law treats cannabis-impaired driving the same as alcohol-impaired driving.
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Browse MenuWhat to Do If an Edible Hits Too Hard
It happens to nearly everyone at some point: you took too much, the edible is stronger than expected, and you are wondering when this will end. First, know that while the experience can be extremely uncomfortable, a THC overdose from edibles is not medically dangerous for healthy adults. You will get through it. Here is what to do.
Do Not Panic
Remind yourself that no one has ever died from a THC overdose. The discomfort is temporary and will pass. Anxiety makes the experience worse, so focus on calming your breathing. Try slow, deep breaths: in for 4 counts, hold for 4, out for 4.
Chew Black Peppercorns
This is one of the most well-known cannabis tips and it has scientific backing. Black pepper contains caryophyllene, a terpene that interacts with the same receptors as THC and can help reduce anxiety and paranoia. Chew 2-3 whole black peppercorns or just sniff ground black pepper.
Try CBD
If you have a CBD product available, taking some may help counteract the intensity of THC. CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in a way that can moderate THC's psychoactive effects. A sublingual CBD tincture works fastest since it absorbs quickly under the tongue.
Eat Something and Hydrate
Eating a substantial snack or meal helps your body process the THC more efficiently. Drink water steadily but do not chug. Avoid alcohol, which can amplify THC effects. Simple carbs and fats can help. A peanut butter sandwich or some crackers and cheese is ideal.
Find a Comfortable Space
Lie down somewhere safe and comfortable. Dim the lights if they feel too bright. Put on calm, familiar music or a show you have seen before. Having a trusted friend nearby can help enormously. Let them know what is happening so they can reassure you.
Sleep It Off If Possible
Sleep is the most effective way to move past an uncomfortable edible experience. If you can fall asleep, you will wake up feeling much better, possibly with a mild grogginess that clears within an hour. This is the simplest and most reliable solution for most people.
The Timeline for Relief
If you have consumed too much, the most uncomfortable period is usually 1 to 3 hours after the effects peak. For a standard edible, this means the hardest part is typically 3 to 5 hours after consumption. After that, the effects begin to taper gradually. Most people feel substantially better within 2 to 3 hours of the peak, and back to normal within 6 to 8 hours total. The key is patience. The effects will end.
Dosing Tips to Control Edible Duration
The best way to manage edible duration is through smart dosing. Here are practical strategies from our budtenders to help you get the experience you want without it lasting longer than you are prepared for.
Start Low, Go Slow (Especially With New Products)
The classic advice exists because it works. Start with 2.5mg if you are a beginner, 5mg if you have some experience. Wait at least 2 hours before considering a second dose. A common mistake is taking more after an hour because nothing has happened, only to have both doses kick in simultaneously. This is how people end up with 12-hour experiences they did not want.
Match the Format to Your Schedule
If you want a shorter experience (2-4 hours), choose cannabis drinks or nano-emulsified products. For a standard evening experience (4-6 hours), gummies or chocolates are your best bet. Only choose baked goods or higher-dose products when you have a clear 8+ hour window with no obligations.
Keep a Cannabis Journal
Track what you take, when you take it, what you eat beforehand, and how long the effects last. After a few experiences, you will start to see your personal patterns. Some people consistently metabolize edibles faster or slower than average. A journal helps you dial in your ideal dose and timing.
Plan Your Environment
Since edibles last hours, not minutes, set up your environment before consuming. Have snacks and water ready, entertainment queued up, and a comfortable space prepared. Clear your schedule for the expected duration plus a buffer. Knowing you have nowhere to be takes away the anxiety of clock-watching.
Consider Combining With CBD
Products with a balanced THC-to-CBD ratio (like 1:1) tend to produce a smoother, more manageable experience. The CBD moderates the intensity of THC without reducing the therapeutic benefits. If your dispensary carries ratio products, they are worth trying for a more controlled experience.
Need personalized advice? Our budtenders at The Library can recommend specific products and doses based on your experience level and goals. We carry edibles at multiple dose levels from NJ-licensed producers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Edible Duration
How long do edibles last?+
How long does an edible high last for a beginner?+
How long do edibles stay in your system for a drug test?+
Do edibles last longer than smoking?+
Why do edibles hit harder than smoking?+
How long do THC gummies last?+
Can I make edibles wear off faster?+
How long do cannabis drinks last?+
Should I eat before taking an edible?+
Where can I buy edibles in NJ?+
Find the Right Edible for You
Every edible experience is different, and finding the right product, dose, and format for your needs makes all the difference. Visit The Library in West Orange and let our budtenders help you choose an edible that fits your schedule and experience level.
5 Washington Street West Orange, NJ 07052
(862) 786-0886 Call for Edible Selection
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Cannabis products are for adults 21 and older only. Effects and durations described are based on general consumer experiences and published research, and may vary significantly by individual. THC content listed on products represents lab-tested amounts but individual responses differ based on biology, tolerance, and other factors. Always consume responsibly. Do not drive under the influence. The Library is a licensed NJ cannabis dispensary (License RE000228). This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Check our menu for current edible inventory.
Corey
Cannabis Educator & Content Specialist
The Library of New Jersey
Corey is a cannabis education specialist at The Library with 5+ years of experience helping customers navigate the New Jersey cannabis market. He creates engaging, accurate content about cannabis products, regulations, and wellness.
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Disclaimer: Cannabis products are for adults 21 and older only. Cannabis should be consumed responsibly. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery under the influence of cannabis. The effects of cannabis vary by individual. Start with a low dose and wait before consuming more. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The Library operates under NJ Cannabis Retail License RE000228. For questions about NJ cannabis regulations, visit the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission.