Recreational and medicinal use of substances like cannabis and alcohol is common, but users often have questions about the effects, particularly: how long does being high last? The duration of intoxication varies widely depending on several factors, including the substance used, dosage, and the individual’s metabolism. This comprehensive guide will help you know How long does being high last from various substances, what influences these times, and how you can manage or alter the duration of effects.
Cannabis: Experiencing the High
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used psychoactive substances, and its effects can vary dramatically based on the strain, THC content, and method of consumption.
1. Method of Consumption
- Smoking or Vaping: The effects can be felt almost immediately and typically peak within 10 to 30 minutes. The high from smoking or vaping cannabis usually lasts between 1 to 3 hours, though residual effects could last up to 8 hours.
- Edibles: When cannabis is ingested, the onset of effects is delayed, typically taking 30 minutes to 2 hours to be felt. However, the high is generally more intense and lasts longer, anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, with some effects potentially lingering for up to 24 hours.
2. THC Concentration
Higher THC levels typically lead to more intense and prolonged effects. Edibles that contain a high dose of THC can extend the duration of the high significantly.
3. Individual Factors
Metabolism, body weight, and tolerance also play critical roles in how long the high lasts. People with faster metabolisms may process THC more quickly, reducing the duration of effects.
Alcohol: Effects and Duration
Alcohol is metabolised at a predictable rate in the body, but how long does being high last from alcohol can vary.
1. Consumption Rate and Amount
- The body typically metabolises alcohol at a rate of about one standard drink per hour. Drinking more than this amount can lead to accumulation in the blood, and symptoms may intensify and last longer.
- The effects of alcohol can last several hours depending on how much is consumed. The feeling of being drunk can last from 1 to 6 hours, with residual effects, like hangovers, lasting into the next day.
2. Food and Water Intake
Eating before drinking can slow the absorption of alcohol, thereby extending the duration you feel drunk. Drinking water between alcoholic drinks can also mitigate the intensity of the hangover.
MDMA: Euphoria and Beyond
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, is another frequently used psychoactive substance, particularly in party settings.
1. Phases of an MDMA High
- Initial Effects: The initial high from MDMA can start within 30 to 45 minutes of ingestion, peaking around 75 to 120 minutes, where users feel euphoric and exceedingly empathetic.
- Duration: The primary effects usually last between 3 to 6 hours. After effects, or the “comedown,” can extend for several days, characterized by mood swings and fatigue.
2. Dosage and Purity
The purity and the amount of MDMA taken not only influence the intensity but also how long the effects last. Higher doses can extend both the peak and duration of side effects.
LSD: A Long, Strange Trip
LSD is a powerful hallucinogenic drug that leads to extensive alterations in perception and sensory experiences.
1. Duration of Effects
- The effects of LSD can be felt within 30 to 90 minutes of ingestion, peaking for several hours and gradually tapering off.
- The total duration of an LSD high typically lasts from 8 to 12 hours, although some psychological effects may be felt for days after use.
2. Factors Influencing Duration
- As with other substances, individual metabolism and body weight play a significant role in how long the effects of LSD last. Additionally, the environment and the user’s mental state at the time of use can influence the duration and nature of the high.
Managing and Understanding High Durations
Managing the duration and effects of a high is crucial, especially for individuals using substances either recreationally or medicinally. Understanding and controlling the length and intensity of a high can enhance safety and effectiveness, reduce negative side effects, and promote a more positive experience. Here are several strategies to manage how long does being high last.
1. Know Your Substance
Understanding the substance you are using is the first step in managing its effects. Different substances interact differently with the body:
- Cannabis: Strains high in CBD are less intoxicating than those high in THC.
- Alcohol: Effects increase with the amount consumed over time.
- Psychedelics (like LSD and MDMA): Potency and purity can significantly affect duration and intensity.
2. Control Dosage
The amount of substance consumed directly influences the duration of the high:
- Start Small: Especially if you are trying a new substance or strain, start with a small amount to gauge its effects on your body.
- Use Measured Doses: Use precision tools like scales or graduated droppers to ensure consistent and controlled dosage.
3. Adjust Consumption Method
The method of consumption affects how quickly and intensely you experience the high:
- Inhalation (smoking/vaping): Offers quick onset but shorter duration.
- Oral Ingestion (edibles/tinctures): Takes longer to kick in but provides a longer-lasting high.
- Topical Application: Generally results in localised relief without a significant psychoactive high.
4. Set and Setting
Your environment and mental state can profoundly impact your experience:
- Comfortable Environment: Being in a safe and comfortable setting can help manage anxiety and paranoia that sometimes accompany a high.
- Positive Mindset: Entering into recreational substance use with a relaxed and positive mindset can influence the experience’s duration and enjoyment.
Conclusion
Individual physiology and the circumstances of use also play an important role on how long does being high last beside the choice of substance. While the effects of substances like alcohol and cannabis are relatively well understood, less common drugs like MDMA and LSD can offer more unpredictable experiences. Regardless of the substance, responsible use, understanding the effects on your body, and taking proper precautions can help manage both the intensity and length of the high. Always prioritise safety, both yours and that of others, when using psychoactive substances.
