How Long Do THC Drinks Last?

August 27, 2025 Vasilios Kottas Bonel

You ever sip a THC drink, chill for 10 minutes, and think… “Am I feeling it yet?” Then you scroll, second-guess everything, and suddenly it hits you while you are mid-text to your cousin about microwave burritos.

We get it. Timing is everything. Especially when you are trying to figure out how long THC drinks actually last. Too short? Waste of a can. Too long? Cancel your afternoon plans.

In this guide, we are breaking it down, what to expect, how long the effects stick around, and how to make every sip count.

Quick Answer - How Long Do THC Drinks Last?

THC drinks usually last between 3 to 6 hours. You will likely feel effects within 10 to 30 minutes.

Our Little Rick cans say 15 minutes for a reason. They hit fast. That is part of what makes them different from old-school edibles.

A 2022 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology noted that THC’s effects through beverages are more gradual and longer-lasting than inhalation, but shorter and easier to manage than baked edibles.

That means you can expect a mellow lift, a steady cruise, and a gradual come-down, not some chaotic rollercoaster. Just remember: the higher the dose, the longer it lingers. Want the full breakdown? We explain how THC drinks work in another post.

What Affects How Long THC Drinks Last?

There’s no magic number that works for everyone. How long your high lasts depends on a few real-life factors.

Dosage Strength

Low doses fade faster. High doses linger longer. Here is what you can expect from Little Rick:

5mg THC / 10mg CBD: Light and mellow. Lasts about 2 to 3 hours.
10mg THC / 10mg CBD: Moderate buzz. Expect 3 to 5 hours of effects.
25mg THC / 25mg CBD: Strong, full-body high. Can last 4 to 6+ hours.

We cover all this in detail in our THC drinks dosage guide. And if you are starting with just 5mg THC, that is a smart choice. Let the drink introduce itself before you pour another.

Individual Tolerance

Some people are THC lightweights. Others? They have been hitting delta-9 beverages since college.

Here is what matters:

How often you use cannabis
Your endocannabinoid system response
Body size, hydration, metabolism

If you are new to THC or have not used it in a while, go slow. Your body will thank you.

Full vs. Empty Stomach

Did you just crush a burrito, or are you running on iced coffee?

THC absorbs faster on an empty stomach. That means quicker onset and potentially stronger effects.

But food can prolong the high. It gives THC more time to work its way in.

So if you want a longer, steadier vibe, sip during or after a meal. If you want it to hit faster, drink on an emptier stomach (just not too empty, please).

THC Form & Bioavailability

Your body is mostly water. THC oil… is not. So when drinks use regular THC oil, your body has a harder time absorbing it. A lot of that buzz potential just passes through without doing much.

That is why our THC is made to actually blend with your system. More of it gets absorbed, and it happens faster, so you are not stuck wondering if it is working while your playlist loops for the third time.

We are not here to knock other brands, but we are proud that our drinks kick in quickly and give you a smoother, more predictable experience. Functional, feel-good, and easy to time right.

Frequency of Use

If you drink THC often, your body may adapt. That means effects can fade quicker, or you may need a higher dose to get the same results.

If you are just starting out, even a 5mg THC drink can hit like a Friday night.

How Long Does the High Last from THC Drinks by Dose?

Here is the breakdown, plain and simple:

5mg THC / 10mg CBD

Onset: 10 to 30 minutes
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Ideal for: Work breaks, socializing, light anxiety, creative flow

10mg THC

Onset: 20 to 35 minutes
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Ideal for: Daytime chill, concerts, deep conversations, relaxing in the sun

25mg THC / 25mg CBD

Onset: 30 to 45 minutes
Duration: 4 to 6+ hours
Ideal for: Couch time, movie marathons, pain relief, winding down after long days

Everyone’s body reacts differently, but this gives you a solid starting point.

How Long Will THC Stay in My System?

Effects wear off in a few hours, but THC can linger in your body.

Occasional users: THC may stay in your system for up to 3 days
Regular users: 7 to 30 days is possible
Hair tests: Can detect THC for up to 90 days

Even legal THC drinks in the USA can trigger drug tests. Keep that in mind if you are job hunting or on probation.

How to Make Your THC Drink Experience Smoother

You do not need a lab coat to get it right. Just follow these tips:

Start low and go slow: Especially if it is your first time
Hydrate before and after: Water is your friend
Plan your timing: Do not sip 10 minutes before a work meeting
Snack smart: Food helps ease absorption
Clear your evening if using 25mg: Trust us, it is a ride

Real People, Real Experiences

You do not need to take our word for it. Here is what real people say:

Deborah G.: “Great finish to a long day! So refreshing, straight from the fridge, and very tasty flavor.”
Beverley S.: “Love love love! I love these drinks, every flavor is nice! Mojito style is my fave!”
Sinitta R.: “Great stuff! I’ve tried similar brands in supermarkets, these are the best!”
Steven P.: “Excellent drink. Refreshing. Pleasant aftertaste. The 25mg can is spectacular for its effect.”
Kyle C.: “DO NOT buy this product if you want to avoid being hooked. Best-tasting summer drink ever. Flavorful but not pretentious. Potent but not overwhelming. Makes me mad how good it is.”
Pippa L.: “This helps with anxiety and perimenopause brain… I absolutely swear by it.”
Duke S.: “Delicious. The 25mg THC is just enough for that comfortable buzz I look for. Perfect drink.”