How long does THC last?
Smoking/vaping: effect in 5–15 min, peak at 30 min, total 2–4 hours. Edibles: onset 30–120 min, peak 2–3 h, duration 6–10 h. At high doses: residual effects up to 24 hours.
Key facts
- Smoked: 2–4 h
- Edibles: 6–10 h
- Edible peak: 2–3 h
- Residuals up to 24 h possible
Detailed answer
THC duration depends heavily on route. Inhalation (smoked, vape): fast onset (5–15 min), peak within 30 min, wears off in 2–4 h. Oral (edibles, oils): first-pass hepatic metabolism converts delta-9-THC to more potent 11-OH-THC — delayed onset (30–120 min) but much longer duration (6–10 h). At high doses: residual effects (concentration, reaction time) up to 24 h — relevant for driving.