A Comprehensive Guide Edibles: Effects, Dosage, and What to Expect

Disclaimer: This article is meant for informational and educational purposes only, and does not replace expert medical or mental health advice. Cannabis use and misuse patterns require a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation for a proper diagnosis and treatment. So, always refer to a board-certified physician or mental health specialist for safe and best outcomes.

Edibles refer to food items that contain marijuana and other psychoactive substances. For instance, gummies, candies, chocolates, teas, and oils. Certain marijuana edibles are sold legally and even illegally. While many claim they have their benefits, they also have their risks and unwanted effects, too.

In this article, we will explore the different edible types, dosages, effects, and safety considerations to help you make informed decisions that prioritize your safety and well-being.

Edibles refer to food items that contain marijuana, which also goes by the names of cannabis, pot, weed, and so on. Edibles contain active ingredients called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (mostly delta-9 THC; sometimes delta-8 THC), and cannabidiol (CBD).

These ingredients give you a high or relax you, which is why edibles are used for recreational purposes, just like the other types of marijuana.

Edibles can also mean magic mushroom (or shroom) edibles, which contain a chemical called psilocybin or psilocin. These edibles make you hallucinate or sense things that are not present.

Edibles have gained a lot of traction of late, but they have been in use since 900 B.C. For instance, Bhang, a very famous Indian beverage containing the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant, is a very popular drink during the festival of Holi, a festival of colors.

The types of edibles can vary from gummies, candy, chocolates, lollipops, teas, sodas, oils, to tinctures. With these edibles, a person can eat or drink marijuana, whereas smoking and vaping have been the general ways of consuming marijuana.

Here are the types of edibles and their effects:

The table below breaks down common THC dosages and their effects:

Marijuana edibles have been considered for their medical use, but there is a long way to go before we can definitively say one way or the other. Nevertheless, some potential uses that have been suggested are:

• Relief from anxiety

• Chronic pain management, as some studies have indicated that edibles can reduce symptoms and enhance sleep.

• Reducing seizures, as some studies have suggested potential benefits in this regard. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved one plant-based cannabis medication called Epidiolex to treat seizures linked with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). However, more research is needed for further use.

• Multiple sclerosis treatment - in that edibles can play a role in reducing stiffness and pain.

• Reducing the unwanted effects of cancer treatments, like nausea and sleeplessness.

Please note that any medical use of marijuana edibles must only be considered under the close supervision of qualified doctors, as unsupervised use can increase health-related risks of cannabis use.

Edibles are psychoactive substances that come with a fair share of risks. While marijuana has not been considered "addictive" in the general sense, it does have the potential for misuse and dependence in the long run.

Here are some potential risks of edibles:

• Anxiety and panic

• Slowed reaction

• Impaired hand/eye coordination

• Difficult with thinking, learning, and memory

• Red eyes

• Dry mouth

• Increased heart rate

• Distorted perceptions of time and distance

• Psychosis.

If you are experiencing any of these worsening side effects of marijuana use, please seek medical attention immediately.

Cannabis use disorder is characterized by increasing misuse and dependence on marijuana products, such as edibles.

Cannabis use disorder is primarily treated with behavioral therapies, as there are no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for this substance use disorder yet. Commonly used behavioral therapies are motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and 12-Step facilitation.

If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis misuse, please reach out to the NuView Treatment Center today. Our licensed and experienced team offers a full continuum of outpatient care, such as partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and ongoing telehealth services for a well-rounded, lasting recovery journey.

Do not delay recovery any longer; please contact us at (323) 307-7997 to explore your recovery options today!

1. What other active ingredients are used in edibles?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and psilocybin are the commonly used active ingredients in edibles.

2. Are marijuana edibles legal in the U.S.?

Medical marijuana is legal in 36 states of the U.S., but recreational marijuana is only legal in 24 states, 2 territories, and the District of Columbia.

3. Can edibles be used safely?

It is not certain that edibles can be used safely outside of medical supervision.

4. Is eating weed safer than smoking it?

While both eating and smoking weed come with risks, eating weed is said to have lower risks, as it is not linked with increased risk of lung diseases like lung cancer.

5. How can edible use be treated?

Cannabis or psilocybin edible use can be effectively treated with behavioral therapies, such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and 12-Step facilitation.