Cannabis drinks are beverages infused with cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, or both. They offer an alternative to smoking or vaping, but onset, potency, and legal status vary by product and location.
What Are Cannabis Drinks?
Cannabis drinks include seltzers, teas, coffees, juices, tonics, and mixers made with hemp-derived or cannabis-derived ingredients. Some contain only CBD, some contain THC, and some combine both. The label should state the cannabinoid type and amount per serving, because a can or bottle may contain more than one serving.
These drinks are not all the same. A CBD drink from a retail store may contain no THC, while a THC beverage may produce noticeable psychoactive effects. Laws also differ by state and by cannabinoid source, so check local rules before buying or using a cannabis drink.
CBD Drinks vs. THC Drinks
CBD drinks
CBD drinks are made with cannabidiol, a cannabinoid that does not produce the same high as THC. People often choose CBD beverages for relaxation or as a nonalcoholic option, but product quality and dose vary. If you shop for CBD, choose lab-tested products with clear cannabinoid content and ingredient lists.
THC drinks
THC drinks contain tetrahydrocannabinol, the cannabinoid linked to cannabis intoxication. These beverages can be potent, and their effects may feel different from smoked cannabis. A THC drink may take time to work, so drinking more before the first serving takes effect can lead to overconsumption.
How Cannabis Drinks Work
Cannabis drinks are absorbed through the digestive system, so effects are usually delayed compared with smoking or vaping. Factors that can affect the experience include the cannabinoid dose, your tolerance, whether you have eaten, the product formulation, and the serving size.
- Start with a low dose, especially with THC drinks.
- Check how many servings are in the container.
- Wait before drinking more, even if you do not feel effects yet.
- Read the ingredient list for sugar, caffeine, alcohol, or other active ingredients.
What to Check Before Buying a Cannabis Drink
- Lab testing: Look for a certificate of analysis that shows cannabinoid content and tests for contaminants.
- Serving size: Confirm the dose per serving and the number of servings per container.
- Cannabinoid type: Know whether the product contains CBD, THC, or both.
- Ingredients: Check for caffeine, sugar, artificial additives, or allergens.
- Legal status: Confirm that the product is legal where you live and where you plan to use it.
Using Cannabis Drinks Responsibly
Treat cannabis drinks like other cannabis products: start low, go slow, and avoid mixing them with alcohol or other substances. Do not drive or operate machinery after using a THC beverage. If you are new to cannabis drinks, choose a product with clear dosing and a lab report, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
CBD drinks are not automatically risk free. They can interact with medications, and labels are not always accurate. Talk with a health care professional if you have questions about CBD, THC, or how a cannabis drink may affect you.
Common Questions About Cannabis Drinks
Are cannabis drinks legal?
Legal status depends on the cannabinoid, the source of the ingredient, and local law. Hemp-derived and cannabis-derived products can face different rules.
Do CBD drinks get you high?
CBD does not produce the same high as THC. However, some CBD drinks may contain small amounts of THC or other cannabinoids, so read the label.
How long do cannabis drinks take to work?
Effects can be delayed, and timing varies by person and product. Wait before taking another serving, particularly with THC drinks.