When it comes to cannabis edibles, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Whether you’re trying a 5mg edible to unwind after work or experimenting with a 100mg edible for a stronger effect, understanding proper edible dosage is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common THC edible doses, what to expect at each level, how long the effects last, and how to avoid taking too much. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How much THC is too much?”—you’re in the right place.

 

What Are Cannabis Edibles?

Cannabis edibles are food or drink products infused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (cannabidiol). Unlike smoking or vaping, edibles are processed through the digestive system and liver, which significantly alters how THC is absorbed and how long it stays in your system.

Common types of edibles include:

• THC gummies 
• Weed baked goods (e.g., brownies, cookies) 
• Marijuana chocolate bars 
• Cannabis-infused beverages 
• Jelly Bombs and Sour Twisted Singles 

Because the effects take longer to kick in, dosing with edibles requires more patience and care.

 

Why Edible Dosage Matters

Unlike inhaling cannabis, the effects of edibles can be delayed, more intense, and longer lasting. That’s why finding the right edible dosage is crucial. Too little, and you might not feel anything. Too much, and you could experience anxiety, nausea, or an overwhelming high that lasts for hours.

It all comes down to:

• Your body weight and metabolism 
• Your cannabis tolerance 
• Whether you’ve eaten recently 
• The potency and type of edible 

Let’s explore how different THC amounts affect the body.

 

Understanding THC Dosage: What Each Amount Feels Like

1–2.5mg THC: Microdosing

• Best for: Beginners, daytime use, anxiety relief 
• Effects: Subtle relaxation, mild mood improvement 
• Duration: 2–4 hours 

This is the ideal entry point for anyone new to cannabis. A microdose allows users to experience the therapeutic effects of THC without feeling intoxicated.

 

5mg Edible: The Standard Starter Dose

• Best for: New users ready for a mild high 
• Effects: Light euphoria, increased creativity, mild body relaxation 
• Duration: 4–6 hours 

A 5mg edible is often considered a beginner’s full dose. It’s enough to feel noticeable effects without becoming overwhelming. If you’re trying THC for the first time, start here and wait at least two hours before considering more.

 

10mg Edible: Moderate Experience

• Best for: Intermediate users or those with a moderate tolerance 
• Effects: Stronger euphoria, mild body high, potential couch lock 
• Duration: 6–8 hours 

The 10mg edible is widely accepted as the “standard” dose across many dispensaries. For many users, this is enough to feel a satisfying, manageable high that lasts for hours. However, beginners should not jump to this level too quickly.

 

20–30mg THC: Strong Effects

• Best for: Experienced users, medical patients 
• Effects: Intense euphoria, altered perception, drowsiness 
• Duration: 8+ hours 

This level of THC is often too much for casual or first-time users. If you’re exploring medical cannabis edibles for pain or insomnia, consult with a healthcare provider before using this dosage.

 

50–100mg Edible: High Potency

• Best for: Very experienced users, high tolerance, severe medical needs 
• Effects: Deep sedation, heavy body high, potential for anxiety or discomfort 
• Duration: 10+ hours 

A 100mg edible is not recommended for most users. The effects are long-lasting and can be intense. Always start low and build up slowly over time before reaching this dosage.

 

How Long Do Edibles Take to Kick In?

Unlike smoking, where THC hits your bloodstream almost instantly, edibles can take 30 to 90 minutes before you feel anything. This delay is due to digestion and the liver metabolizing THC into 11-hydroxy-THC—a more potent compound that causes a stronger, longer-lasting high.

Peak effects usually happen around 2 to 3 hours after ingestion.

Because of this delayed onset, one of the biggest mistakes people make is taking more edibles before the first dose has kicked in. Be patient, and never redose within the first two hours.

 

How Long Do Edible Highs Last?

The effects of edibles last 4 to 12 hours, depending on the dosage, metabolism, and tolerance. Here’s a general breakdown:

Dosage	Onset Time	Duration
1–5mg	30–60 mins	2–4 hours
10mg	30–90 mins	4–8 hours
20–50mg	45–90 mins	6–10 hours
100mg+	60–120 mins	10–12+ hours

 

How Much THC Is Too Much?

The answer depends on the person—but here are red flags you’ve consumed too much THC:

• Rapid heart rate or palpitations 
• Intense anxiety or paranoia 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Hallucinations or confusion 
• Feeling “stuck” or mentally foggy 

While you can’t overdose fatally on cannabis, consuming too much can lead to a very uncomfortable experience. Ingesting over 100mg of THC, especially without tolerance, is likely too much for most people.

Pro tip: If you’re not sure where to start, try a 5mg edible, wait a full two hours, and gradually increase next time if needed.

 

How to Find Your Ideal Edible Dosage

Here’s a simple method to find your sweet spot:

Step 1: Start Low

Begin with 2.5–5mg THC. This is enough for you to feel whether you’re sensitive to THC.

Step 2: Be Patient

Wait at least 2 hours before deciding to consume more. Don’t fall into the trap of redosing too early.

Step 3: Track Your Reaction

Write down how you felt, how long it took to kick in, and how long the effects lasted. This will help you dial in your dosage next time.

Step 4: Titrate Slowly

Increase by 2.5–5mg each session until you reach your desired effect. Remember: more THC isn’t always better—finding the right dosage is about control, not intensity.

 

Edible Dosage Chart for Reference

THC Dosage	Who It’s For	Effects
1–2.5mg	Microdosers & new users	Subtle mood lift, no high
5mg	Beginners	Light high, mild relaxation
10mg	Intermediate users	Euphoric, giggly, creative
20–30mg	Regular consumers	Strong high, possible drowsiness
50–100mg	Experienced/medical users	Very intense, long-lasting effects

 

What to Do If You Took Too Much THC

If you’ve taken more than your body can handle, here are a few tips to ride it out safely:

• Hydrate: Drink water to stay grounded and avoid dry mouth. 
• Distract Yourself: Watch a calming show, listen to music, or talk to a friend. 
• Sleep It Off: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try resting in a quiet, dark space. 
• CBD to the Rescue: Taking a dose of CBD can help balance out the intense THC effects. 

The effects will wear off in time. Don’t panic—it’s temporary.

 

Edibles Dosage Tips for First-Time Users

• Eat something first: Avoid consuming edibles on an empty stomach. 
• Read the label: Some products split 100mg into 10 pieces, while others are a single serving. 
• Avoid alcohol: Mixing THC and alcohol can amplify unwanted effects. 
• Stick with familiar brands: Products from reputable sources like Reefside offer accurate dosing and lab-tested safety. 

 

Buying Edibles Online in Canada

Looking for properly dosed, lab-tested cannabis edibles in Canada? At Reefside, we carry a wide range of THC gummies, chocolates, and infused treats for every tolerance level.

From 5mg edibles for beginners to 100mg edibles for seasoned users, you’ll find something that suits your ideal high. Shop safely and discreetly, with fast shipping across Canada.

Ready to find your perfect dose?
➡️ Browse Reefside’s THC Edibles Now

 

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Edible Dosage

There’s no universal “perfect dose” of THC edibles—it’s all about your individual tolerance, goals, and how your body processes cannabis. Whether you’re easing in with a 5mg edible, exploring the effects of a 10mg edible, or pushing the limits with a 100mg edible, the key is to start low, go slow, and listen to your body.

And if you ever find yourself asking “How much THC is too much?”, the answer is always: less than you think if you’re just getting started.

 

REFERENCES:

Wikipedia. (2025, 13 May). Cannabis edible. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_edible 

Alex E., PhD, RN | Reviewed by Christina P., MD. (2024, April 17). THC Dosage: What’s the Right (and Safe) Amount?. Available at: https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/cannabis/how-much-thc-dosage 

Jon J. Medically reviewed by Eloise T., RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC. (2024, February 5). How long does an edible last?. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-do-edibles-last 

Carter, A. (2019, August 9). How Long Do Edibles Take to Kick In?. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-do-edibles-take-to-kick-in