If you have taken too much of an edible, the most important thing to know is that the feeling will pass. Find a safe, comfortable place, sip some water, have a light snack and try to rest while it wears off, and call 911 if you are ever unsure or someone seems seriously unwell. At Saint John Bud Express we would rather you never get there, but if you are in Saint John and reading this mid-wobble, here is a calm, practical rundown.
This is general information, not medical advice.
Why do edibles hit so hard?
Edibles are processed through your stomach and liver, which is part of why they can feel different from smoking and often last much longer. They are also slow. It can take a while for an edible to kick in, so a very common mistake is taking a second piece because "the first one isn't working", then both arrive together.
Our guide on how long edibles take explains the timing, and it is worth reading before next time.
What should you do if you're too high?
Remind yourself it will pass. The feeling is temporary. It may feel long, but it does wear off. Saying that out loud can genuinely help.
Get somewhere safe and familiar. Your couch or your bed is ideal. Lower the lights, turn the music down and step away from crowds or busy places.
Sit or lie down. If you feel dizzy, lie on your side. Don't try to walk it off on the street or go anywhere.
Sip water. Dry mouth is common. Small sips are better than gulping a big glass.
Have a light snack. Some people find a bit of food helps them feel more grounded. Crackers, toast or fruit are easy choices.
Breathe slowly. Try breathing in for a count of four and out for a count of six. Slow breathing can help you feel calmer when your heart feels like it's racing.
Distract yourself gently. A familiar comedy, a calm playlist or a favourite show can take your mind off how you feel. Skip anything intense.
Try to sleep. If you can doze off, that is often the easiest way to get through it. You will most likely wake up feeling much better.
Ask someone to stay with you. A friend or partner who is sober can keep you company and help you feel safe.
What should you avoid?
- Don't take more cannabis, in any form.
- Don't drink alcohol. Mixing can make things worse.
- Don't drive or operate anything, and don't get in a car with someone who has been using.
- Don't go out alone while you feel unsteady.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 if in doubt. If you or someone else has chest pain, trouble breathing, faints, can't be woken, has a seizure, is badly confused or you are simply worried, call 911. It is always better to check.
If a child or pet ate an edible, call 911 or a poison control line right away. Don't wait to see what happens.
You can also call 811 for Tele-Care in New Brunswick to speak with a registered nurse if it isn't an emergency but you want advice.
How long does it last?
It varies a lot depending on the dose, your body and whether you've eaten. Edibles can last several hours, and some people still feel a little foggy the next morning. Rest, eat a proper meal and drink water the next day.
How do you avoid it next time?
Start low. A small dose is plenty for a first try. Our edible dosage for beginners guide walks through how to pick one.
Wait longer than you think. Give it at least two hours before considering more. Many people prefer to wait until the next day.
Read the label. Check how many milligrams are in each piece, not just in the whole package.
Eat normally. Taking edibles on a completely empty stomach can make the timing less predictable.
Be careful after a break. If you've taken time off, your tolerance will be lower. See our cannabis tolerance break guide.
Store them safely. Keep edibles in their packaging, out of reach of kids and pets.
The Bottom Line
Being too high on an edible is unpleasant but it passes: get somewhere safe, sip water, eat a little, rest, and call 911 if anything seems serious. Next time, start low and wait. Read our THC edibles guide and browse our edibles category when you are ready, through our Saint John weed delivery.
