Vasilios Kottas Bonel
Vasilios Kottas Bonel
Vasilios Kottas Bonel

Vasilios is the co-founder of Little Rick, a hemp drinks brand focused on making it easier to relax in a fast-paced world. With a background in business, finance, and startups, he writes about the real experience of building a brand from the ground up — from product development and wellness trends to the challenges and mindset behind growing something new. Outside of work, he’s into surfing, boxing, strength training, and spending time in nature. He’s curious about how people live, what motivates them, and how to create a life that feels good — not just looks good. His posts blend practical insight with honest reflections from the journey so far.

How Long Do THC Drinks Take to Kick In?

You’ve just cracked open a can of a THC beverage, and you’re wondering: when does it hit?

One minute you’re sipping, the next you’re scanning your fridge, wondering if it’s supposed to feel anything yet.

Below, we’ll walk you through what to expect with cannabis beverages, how fast they work compared to edibles, what affects the onset time and how to get the most out of your Little Rick drink without surprises.

Quick Answer ­- When THC Drinks Start Working

THC drinks will typically start to kick in within 15 to 45 minutes, peak around 1 to 2 hours, and last about 3 to 5 hours, depending on your body, dose and formulation.

Type of THC Drink

Onset Time

Peak Effects

Duration

Notes

Nano-emulsified THC drinks

10-20 minutes

30-60 minutes

2-4 hours

Fastest absorption. Often used in low-dose seltzers.

Regular THC edibles (oil-based)

45-90 minutes

2-3 hours

4-6 hours

Slowest. Requires full digestion.

Little Rick full-spectrum THC drinks

30-45 minutes

60-90 minutes

3-5 hours

Balanced onset. Designed for steady, full-body effects without harsh spikes.

If you are new to THC beverages, we suggest starting with a 5 mg THC drink and waiting at least 45-60 minutes before considering more. Everyone reacts differently, and starting low helps you dial in the perfect buzz.

How long do thc drinks take to kick in infographic by Little Rick

Why THC Drinks Work Faster Than Edibles

With edibles like brownies, THC travels through your digestive system, hits the liver, gets converted to 11‑hydroxy‑THC, which is more potent and then you feel the effect, often 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion.

By contrast, THC drinks, especially well‑formulated ones, can begin absorption via the stomach and small intestine more quickly. Some even allow partial absorption through oral soft tissues.

To understand better:

Format

Onset Time

Why is it faster/slower

Smoking/Vaping

Seconds-minutes

Direct lung‑to‑bloodstream path

THC Drink (liquid)

15-45 minutes

Faster GI absorption, sometimes soft tissue

Edible (solid)

30-120 minutes

Slower absorption, liver conversion required

Because of this, a THC beverage can give you a faster onset but still maintain a therapy‑style duration, easier to pace than edible overload.

What Affects How Fast THC Drinks Kick In

No two bodies are the same. Some people feel the effects of THC drinks within 10 minutes. Others take closer to an hour. That is because how fast THC drinks kick in depends on a mix of factors:

  • Metabolism & Body Weight: If you have a faster metabolism, THC tends to kick in quicker. Body fat plays a role, too. THC is fat-soluble, so people with higher body fat may feel slower effects.
  • Food in Your Stomach: Empty stomach? You will likely feel the effects faster. But it can also hit harder. A 2018 study found that food slows THC absorption, making the high feel steadier and easier to manage.
  • THC Dosage & CBD Ratio: Higher doses usually mean a quicker, more noticeable onset. But if your drink also contains CBD (balanced 1:1 ratio, 1:2, 10:1 and more), like most of ours do, that can soften the impact.
  • Hydration & Drink Type: Carbonated drinks can empty from your stomach faster than still beverages. That faster gastric emptying may lead to quicker THC absorption.
  • Tolerance Levels: If you use cannabis often, your body adapts. That means it takes longer or more THC to feel the same effects. This happens because your cannabinoid receptors become less responsive over time.

How the High Feels - Onset, Peak, and Duration

How long do thc drinks stay in your system infographic

Most people do not feel a sudden “hit” with cannabis drinks. It builds up quietly. First, your body relaxes. Then your mood lifts. And before you know it, things feel a little easier, lighter, calmer, more fun. Here is the usual timeline:

  • T+0-15 min: You feel a gentle warming or tingle; maybe a light shift in perception.
  • T+20-40 min: Lifted mood, some clarity, body relaxing, this is your sweet zone for social or creative scenes.
  • T+60-90 min: The peak effect hits, feelings deepen, senses sharpen a bit, good time zone.
  • T+3-5 h: Effects taper off into a calm afterglow; you’re functional, relaxed and likely not couch‑locked.

Remember, sip, don’t chug. Taking your drink slowly gives your body time to catch up and avoids overshooting. Depending on the person, how long THC drinks stay in your system can vary, especially with higher doses or slower metabolism.

How to Get the Best Experience with Little Rick THC Drinks

10 mg THC drinks effects

THC drinks are not a race. The best highs come when you ease in, not blast off!

  • Start with 5-10 mg if you’re new to cannabis infused beverages. The effects of a 10 mg THC drink are a great standard.
  • Wait at least 45 minutes before even thinking about redosing.
  • Stay hydrated, stay in a comfortable setting.
  • Avoid mixing with alcohol! It can heighten effects in unpredictable ways.
  • Know your local cannabis laws and your body’s limits.

Feeling ready? Here is how each Little Rick THC drink fits the mood:

  • 5 mg THC: Great for first-timers or daytime microdosing. Gentle, clear-headed, easy to control.
  • 10 mg THC: Our middle ground. Noticeable uplift, smooth social energy, balanced with CBD.
  • 25 mg THC: For experienced users or deeper relaxation. Stronger buzz, best for winding down.
  • 60 mg THC: Extra strength for seasoned users. Heavy, long-lasting effects made for full reset days.

Pick your pace. Sip slow. Let the good vibes build naturally.

FAQ

Can You Make a THC Drink Kick In Faster?

Yes, on an empty stomach or with carbonation, but faster isn’t always better. Patience pays.

Which THC Drinks Kick In the Fastest?

Formulas built for rapid absorption (e.g., micro‑emulsified) tend to be quicker. Dose, body, formulation matter.

How Fast Do 10 mg THC Drinks Work?

For many, you’ll feel the effect around 20-30 minutes, peak by 60.

Do THC Drinks Hit Faster Than Edibles?

Generally, yes. Liquid intake tends to kick in earlier than solid edibles.

Can You Feel THC Infused Drinks on a Full Stomach?

Yes, but you may feel them later and more gradually. Wait time may be longer.

How Long Do THC Drinks Last in Your System?

Effects typically last 3-5 hours, but metabolism and body fat affect detection.

Do THC Drinks Hit Immediately?

Not instantly. Allow 15-45 minutes before judging if it worked.

Should You Drink THC Drinks Fast or Slow?

Slow. A measured sip, then wait and see. That’s the smart approach.

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