Last updated: June 11, 2026
Quick Answer
Health and safety notice: This article provides general educational information, not medical advice, and has not been reviewed by a medical professional. Individual responses to cannabis vary. Consult a qualified health-care professional for personal guidance.
Authoritative sources: Health Canada: Cannabis and your health and Health Canada: Using a cannabis product.
The standard starting dose for cannabis edibles is 2.5–5 mg of THC. Health Canada caps regulated edibles at 10 mg THC per package precisely because new users overestimate their tolerance. Effects take 30 minutes to 2 hours to begin and can last 4–8 hours, so the golden rule is: start low, wait at least 2 hours, and never re-dose early.
Key Takeaways
- Start with 2.5 mg THC or less. Higher THC doses increase impairment and the risk of adverse effects.
- Edibles are metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is stronger and longer-lasting than inhaled THC.
- Onset takes 30–120 minutes — the #1 mistake is taking more before the first dose kicks in.
- Effects typically last 4–8 hours, with a peak around hours 2–4.
- Eating edibles on an empty stomach makes onset faster and stronger.
Edible Dosage Chart (mg of THC)
| Dose | Experience Level | Typical Effects |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2.5 mg | Microdose | Mild effects; impairment is still possible |
| 2.5–5 mg | Beginner | Effects vary; use caution and wait before taking more |
| 5–10 mg | Casual user | Clear euphoria, impaired coordination possible |
| 10 mg or more | High dose | Greater impairment and adverse-effect risk; not recommended for inexperienced consumers |
Why Do Edibles Hit Differently Than Smoking?
When you eat THC, your liver converts it to 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently and lasts longer. That is why a 10 mg gummy can feel stronger than several puffs of a joint, and why edible highs last hours longer.
How Long Should You Wait Before Taking More?
Wait a minimum of 2 hours — ideally 3 — before considering a second dose. Onset varies with your metabolism, what you’ve eaten, and the edible type. Fast-acting formats like beverages and nano-emulsified gummies can kick in within 15–30 minutes, while chocolates and baked goods may take 90+ minutes.
What Should You Do If You Take Too Much?
Too much THC can cause severe anxiety, confusion, vomiting or other symptoms. Move to a safe place and do not drive. Seek urgent medical help or contact poison control if symptoms are severe, unusual or worsening.
Where to Start?
Choose clearly labelled products so you always know your dose. Browse cannabis edibles and THC gummies at Bud Cargo — every product lists total THC and per-piece dosing. New to edibles? Read our guide on how long edibles take to kick in.
Ready to put the chart to use? See our picks for the best THC gummies in Canada, with strength recommendations for every tolerance level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mg of THC should a beginner take?
2.5–5 mg. Wait at least 2 hours before taking more.
Why don’t edibles work for me?
A small percentage of people metabolize oral THC inefficiently. Try taking edibles with fatty food, or switch to sublingual tinctures which absorb under the tongue.
How long does an edible high last?
Typically 4–8 hours, peaking around hours 2–4. Higher doses last longer, and residual effects can linger into the next day.
Can I drive after taking an edible?
No. Cannabis-impaired driving is illegal across Canada, and edible impairment lasts much longer than people expect.
For adults of legal age. Keep all cannabis products away from children and pets.
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