When choosing between THC edibles and vaping, most cannabis consumers want to know one thing: How long will the high last? Whether you’re exploring gummy edibles or trying out a weed pen, the duration, onset, and intensity of each experience are very different. Understanding these differences helps you dose responsibly—and enjoy your cannabis exactly the way you want to.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about how long gummy edibles last, how long THC gummies stay in your system, how long a high lasts from a weed pen, and how edibles compare to vaping in both effect and duration.
What’s the Difference Between Edibles and Vaping?
Before focusing on how long each method lasts, it helps to understand how your body processes them.
Edibles (THC Gummies, Chocolates, Baked Goods)
THC edibles travel through the digestive system and are metabolized by the liver. During this process, delta-9 THC converts into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent compound with a longer-lasting psychoactive effect. That’s why THC gummies often feel stronger and last significantly longer than inhaled cannabis.
Vaping (Weed Pens, Carts, Disposables)
When you vape, THC enters your bloodstream directly through the lungs. The effects come on faster, hit harder initially, and wear off more quickly. Most people use a weed pen when they want immediate relief or a quick, controlled high.
How Long Do Edibles Last?
If you’re wondering how long do gummy edibles last, here’s the quick answer:
The high from THC edibles typically lasts 4–8 hours, sometimes up to 12 hours depending on dosage, tolerance, and metabolism.
But the experience can vary widely. Below is a deeper breakdown.
How Long Do Gummy Edibles Last in Your Body?
1. Duration of Effects
- Mild dose (2.5–5 mg): 3–5 hours
- Standard dose (10 mg): 4–8 hours
- Higher doses (20–50+ mg): 6–12+ hours
Keep in mind that the peak tends to occur about 2–4 hours after eating.
2. Onset Time
You won’t feel edibles immediately. Expect:
- 30–90 minutes for initial effects
- 2–3 hours for peak effects
Your digestive system heavily influences the timeline. Eating edibles on a full stomach slows digestion, while taking them on an empty stomach leads to a faster onset.
3. Factors That Impact How Long THC Gummies Last
- Metabolism: Faster metabolism = shorter high
- Tolerance: Daily cannabis users feel a shorter, milder high
- Body weight: THC is fat-soluble, so higher body fat = longer-lasting effects
- Dosage: Higher doses extend the duration significantly
- Type of edible: Gummies digest faster, while baked treats take longer
How Long Does a Gummy High Last?
“How long does a gummy high last?” is one of the most searched cannabis questions online—especially among first-time users.
Average Duration:
A gummy high usually lasts between 4 and 8 hours.
For some, the after-effects (grogginess, body relaxation) can linger for up to 24 hours, especially with doses above 20 mg.
Why Gummies Hit Longer Than Most Edibles
Gummies typically contain a concentrated and predictable dose of THC, allowing the liver to convert THC efficiently. This leads to a prolonged, steady high that gradually tapers off rather than dropping suddenly.
How Long Do THC Gummies Last in Your System? (Not Just the High)
Consumers often ask both how long the high lasts and how long THC stays in the body.
Here’s a general timeline:
- Occasional users: 3–4 days
- Regular users: up to 10 days
- Heavy users: 30+ days
Because edibles produce 11-hydroxy-THC, they sometimes stay detectable longer than smoked or vaped cannabis.
How Long Does a High Last From a Weed Pen?
Now let’s compare edibles to vaping.
Quick Answer:
A high from a weed pen lasts 1–3 hours for most people.
Full Breakdown:
1. Onset Time
- Fast: 30 seconds – 2 minutes
- This is why vaping is preferred for quick relief from stress, anxiety, headaches, or insomnia.
2. Peak Effects
- 10–30 minutes after inhalation
3. Total Duration
- 1–3 hours, depending on potency and tolerance
- Stronger cannabis concentrates (live resin, rosin, distillate) may last closer to 3–4 hours
Why Vaping Wears Off Faster
Since THC enters the bloodstream immediately and bypasses digestion, it peaks quickly but also exits quicker than ingested cannabis.
Edibles vs. Vaping: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Edibles (e.g., THC Gummies) | Vaping (Weed Pen) |
| How Long the High Lasts | 4–8+ hours | 1–3 hours |
| Onset Time | 30–90 minutes | 30 seconds – 2 minutes |
| Peak Effects | 2–4 hours | 10–30 minutes |
| Best For | Long-lasting relief; deep relaxation | Quick relief; short sessions |
| Intensity | Strong, full-body | Milder, fast-hitting |
| Control | Harder to dose | Easy to dose gradually |
Why Edibles Last So Much Longer Than Vaping
Edibles undergo first-pass metabolism—a process that amplifies the psychoactive strength of THC. The liver transforms THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently, resulting in:
- Longer highs
- Stronger effects
- More body-centered relaxation
Vaped cannabis, meanwhile, involves delta-9 THC entering the bloodstream directly. It hits quickly but doesn’t turn into the more potent metabolite that edibles produce.
Which Option Is Right for You? Edibles or Vaping?
The best method depends on your goals.
Choose Edibles If You Want:
✔ A long-lasting high
✔ A discreet, smoke-free option
✔ Stronger body effects
✔ Convenience and portability
✔ Longer relief for pain, insomnia, or anxiety
Choose Vaping If You Want:
✔ A fast-acting high
✔ Shorter, controllable effects
✔ Smooth and flavorful hits
✔ A discreet, odor-free option
✔ Lightweight, portable cannabis use
Many consumers use both—vaping for fast effects and edibles for long, sustained relief.
How to Make Your Edible or Vape High Last Longer
Edibles
- Eat a balanced meal before taking gummies
- Choose full-spectrum or live resin gummies
- Stay hydrated
- Take smaller doses to extend the pleasant part of the high
Vaping
- Choose higher-potency cartridges (distillate, live resin)
- Take slow, controlled hits
- Store carts properly to maintain potency
- Use weed pens with temperature control
Safety Tips for Edibles and Vaping
With Edibles
- Start with 2.5–5 mg if you’re new
- Wait a full 2 hours before taking more
- Avoid alcohol—mixing intensifies effects
- Keep away from children and pets
With Vaping
- Use lab-tested carts only
- Avoid extremely high temperatures
- Clean your vape device regularly
- Replace burnt or clogged cartridges
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do edibles last longer than vaping?
Because edibles metabolize into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver, which is more psychoactive and longer-lasting.
2. How long does a gummy high last?
Typically 4–8 hours, sometimes longer at high doses.
3. How long does a high last from a weed pen?
Usually 1–3 hours, depending on the potency and the user.
4. How long do THC gummies last in your system?
Anywhere from 3 days to 30+ days, depending on usage frequency.
5. Are edibles stronger than vaping?
Yes—edibles often produce a deeper, more intense experience.
Final Verdict: How Long Do Edibles Last Compared to Vaping?
Here’s the simplest way to understand the difference:
- Edibles = Slow onset, long-lasting, stronger high
- Vaping = Fast onset, shorter, milder high
If your priority is duration, edibles win every time. If you need immediate effects, vaping is the go-to.
Explore Premium Edibles and Vape Products at The Distro
At The Distro, we offer a curated collection of:
- THC gummies
- Edible chocolates
- Weed pens
- High-potency vape carts
- Live resin and distillate disposables
Whether you’re looking for products that last all day or something fast-acting for a quick boost, you’ll find the perfect match.
Shop top-quality edibles and vape products now at The Distro — your trusted US-based online weed dispensary.
References:
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. (nd). Cannabis: Inhaling vs Ingesting. Available at: https://www.ccsa.ca/sites/default/files/2019-06/CCSA-Cannabis-Inhaling-Ingesting-Risks-Infographic-2019-en_1.pdf
Rae, A., PhD, Reviewed by Stacia Woodcock, S, PharmD. (2024, May 21). How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Last?. Available at: https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/cannabis/how-long-edibles-last
