Delta 8 gummies have become increasingly popular over the past couple years as a legal way to experience a mild high similar to delta 9 THC. But one question on a lot of users’ minds is – how long do the effects of delta 8 gummies actually last?
Here’s a closer look at How Long Delta 8 Gummies Actually Last:
Onset Time
When you take a delta 8 gummy, you can expect to start feeling the effects kick in within 30 minutes to 2 hours. This is because the gummies need to be digested and processed through your liver before you feel anything.
The onset time can vary depending on factors like your metabolism, whether you took the gummies on an empty stomach, the potency of the specific gummies, and more. Some people report feeling the gummies kick in within 30-45 minutes if taken on an empty stomach.
Peak Effects
Once you start feeling the gummies take effect, the peak effects are usually reached somewhere between 1.5-2 hours after ingesting them. This is when you’ll experience the strongest effects from the delta 8 THC.
The peak effects from delta 8 gummies often produce a pleasant, calming high or buzz. Some reported effects include feelings of euphoria, relaxation, uplifted mood, and reduced stress or anxiety. The potency of the peak effects ultimately depends on the dosage in each gummy.
Duration
So how long do the effects of delta 8 gummies last once you reach the peak? For most people, the main effects last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.
With an average dose of around 25mg of delta 8 THC per gummy, effects tend to last on the longer end, around 6-8 hours. Higher doses above 50mg per gummy may extend the duration even longer.
As with onset time, the duration also depends on your individual body chemistry and how it metabolizes delta 8 THC. Factors like your weight, metabolism, tolerance, and delivery method used also impact duration.
Offset
The offset refers to when the effects start tapering off and you begin to come down from the peak high. This typically occurs around 4-6 hours after ingesting delta 8 gummies.
You can expect the effects to slowly subside over the next few hours. Most people report the major effects wearing off after 6-8 hours total, but some can still feel residual effects up to 12 hours later.
This drawn out offset is one reason many users prefer edibles like gummies over vaping or smoking delta 8. The gummies provide a more prolonged, steady high compared to faster acting methods.
Side Effects
Most people tolerate delta 8 THC gummies well, especially when taking moderate doses. However, some possible side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
- Short-term memory issues
- Slowed reaction time
- Anxiety (higher doses)
These effects mirror delta 9 THC. However, the milder nature of delta 8 makes adverse reactions less likely. Still, it’s best to start with lower doses if new to delta 8 gummies.
Factors Affecting Duration
Many factors can influence how long delta 8 gummies last and their effects for you:
- Dosage – Higher doses extend the duration and intensity
- Metabolism – Faster metabolisms process delta 8 quicker
- Weight/build – THC lasts longer in heavier individuals
- Tolerance – Those with high tolerance metabolize it faster
- Delivery method – Edibles last much longer than vaping or smoking
- Product quality – Purity and potency impact duration & effects
- Interactions – Other drugs or medications may influence effects
- Hydration & food – THC may last longer if taken with food
- Gender – Some research shows longer effects in females
- Individual body chemistry – We all metabolize medications differently
Tips for Maximizing Duration
If you want to extend the effects and duration of your delta 8 gummies, here are some tips:
- Take gummies on a full or partially full stomach – Avoid empty stomach
- Choose higher doses around 50mg per gummy
- Stagger your dosage – Take some gummies, then more 1-2 hrs later
- Buy from reputable brands with quality, potent gummies
- Avoid smoking or vaping right after taking gummies
- Stay hydrated – Drink water before, during, and after dosing
- Write down timing to find ideal duration for you
- Use gummies with other cannabinoids like CBD or CBN
- Don’t take gummies again until effects fully wear off
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do delta 8 gummies stay in your system?
Delta 8 THC can be detected in your system for 1-3 days after ingesting gummies, but can be longer with heavy usage. For infrequent users, tests are unlikely to detect delta 8 after 24 hours.
What affects how long delta 8 gummies last?
The major factors affecting duration include dosage, metabolism, tolerance, weight, product quality and potency. Delivery method and interactions with food, medications or other drugs also play a role.
Do delta 8 gummies last as long as delta 9 gummies?
Most users report delta 8 gummies lasting 4-8 hours on average, similar to traditional THC edibles. However, delta 8’s effects tend to feel slightly shorter and milder compared to delta 9 edibles.
Is there any way to make delta 8 gummies last longer?
Yes, choosing higher potency gummies, staggering your dosage, using on a full stomach, and staying hydrated can all extend the duration. Using other cannabinoids like CBD and CBN may also prolong effects.
How long do the side effects of delta 8 gummies last?
Most side effects completely resolve within 6-12 hours. However, some users report occasional residual effects like grogginess, fatigue, headache or dry mouth lasting up to 24 hours, especially at higher doses. Staying hydrated can help minimize these.
Can you redose delta 8 gummies to make effects last longer?
Yes, you can carefully redose with additional gummies 1-2 hours after your initial dose to extend the effects. However, it’s important not to overdo it – start low with any redose. Taking more before peak effects kicks in increases side effect risk.