Finding the right dose and delivery method for cannabis therapy is a personalized journey. Unlike prescription medications, cannabis products don't come with a one-size-fits-all dose. Instead, their therapeutic benefits stem from a complex interplay of active compounds interacting with your unique endocannabinoid system.

Discovering the optimal treatment regimen often involves trial and error with different cannabinoid and terpene formulations, as well as various delivery methods. Peer-to-peer information sharing among individuals using cannabis for similar symptoms can be a valuable resource. Online platforms may offer insights into different cannabis varieties, and engaged healthcare providers can gather feedback from patients to assist in finding a starting point.

If you obtain medical cannabis from a dispensary, the staff can also be a helpful resource. They can offer knowledge and resources to help you identify the right products for your needs. Additionally, dispensaries often provide information about your past purchases and may offer copies of test reports for products, allowing you to understand their constituents.

While many states require cannabis products to be labeled with only a few key cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, laboratories are increasingly testing for a broader range of compounds, including various cannabinoids and terpenes. This comprehensive testing provides a more detailed understanding of the product's composition, helping patients make informed decisions about their treatment. 

  • 2.5-5 mg THC produces therapeutic effects
  • 15-20 mg/day may have unwanted effects for patients
  • Products with multiple cannabinoids & terpenoids can improve therapeutic effects
  • Psychoactivity is not necessary for therapeutic effect.
  • The correct dose is the lowest that produces the desired therapeutic benefit.

Tips for finding your therapeutic dose

START LOW, GO SLOW: Begin with a low dose & gradually increase it to reach the desired therapeutic effect.

MORE ISN’T ALWAYS BETTER! Low & high doses of cannabinoids produce different results, this is referred to as the biphasic effect. For instance, low doses of THC might have a calming effect, while high doses can lead to increased anxiety.

CANNABIS TOLERANCE: Over time, some individuals may develop a tolerance to the effects of cannabis, especially THC. Consider a "tolerance break" to reset your response & rotate between different cannabis products to prevent tolerance.

ACCIDENTAL INTOXICATION*: Cannabis that is ingested can take over an hour to take effect with a duration of up to 8 hours. This may cause Individuals to take an additional dose causing accidental intoxication. Products may also be labeled inaccurately or have an uneven distribution of cannabinoids in multi-dose products causing a single dose to have a greater effect than is normal or desired. (Visit the Side Effects webpage for more information

* Liver transforms THC into 11-OH-THC which has 4 X the psychoactive effects of THC

Always prioritize safety & make informed choices to optimize your experience with medical cannabis.

Patients use many delivery methods to take cannabis therapeutics. The method used can depend on personal choice, the medical condition being treated, the patient's age, the patient’s tolerance for the methods, etc. Patients and their medical professionals choose preparations based on potency and delivery methods (routes of administration) and determine optimal treatment protocols through guided experimentation and self-titration. Cannabis can be inhaled, ingested, and administered topically, sublingually, or buccally.  

Inhalation is absorption via the internal surface of the lungs. Cannabis can be efficiently and safely inhaled through vaporization. Absorption through the lungs completely bypasses potential drug-drug interactions in the liver. The time to onset is quick and effects last for over an hour.

Ingestion is absorption via the internal surfaces of the stomach and intestines. Cannabis products can be swallowed and absorbed through the gut, similar to other vitamins and herbal supplements. This requires first-pass metabolism in the liver before becoming active. The time to onset varies greatly (hours), and the duration of effects is longer.

Topical applications are absorbed via the external surface of the skin. Cannabis can be used topically without reaching the bloodstream if specially formulated to do so. Topical applications of cannabis have a rapid onset (potentially less than a minute) and can provide hours of relief.

Oral administration is the absorption of a drug by the internal surfaces of the mouth. Cannabis sprays, such as those made with ethanol, can be absorbed through the cheeks (buccally) or under the tongue (sublingually). Onset occurs within minutes to an hour, and first-pass liver metabolism is avoided.

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Ingestion

Exploring the ingestion method of cannabis opens doors to long-lasting relief and discreet consumption. From edibles to tinctures, ingestion offers precise dosing and extended effects.

Sublingual

Sublingual cannabis can be discreet and is fast-acting. By placing drops under your tongue, cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream for quick relief. Discover the convenience and effectiveness of sublingual cannabis.

Topical

Experience the soothing power of cannabis through topical applications! From creams to oils, cannabis topicals offer targeted relief for pain, inflammation, and skin conditions. Discover the benefits of topical cannabis for holistic wellness.

Inhalation

Inhalation is a common method of consuming cannabis, offering rapid onset and precise dosage control. Whether through smoking or vaporization, inhalation can provide quick relief for various medical conditions.

Side Effects, Adverse Events, & Contamination Symptoms

Determining whether a side effect is cause for concern is not always clear for cannabis consumers. Additionally, assessing the significance of a side effect can prove to be challenging while it is occurring, particularly when anxiety, a common sid...