You ate an edible, you're still waiting, and now you're wondering whether anything is happening. That quiet stretch can be misleading.

Edibles can take longer to produce effects than smoked cannabis, and the effects can last longer than expected. Taking more because you haven't noticed a change can leave you dealing with much more than you intended.

There isn't a reliable shortcut in someone else's story. Your friend saying “that one barely did anything” doesn't tell you what will happen to you.

Leave room for plans to change

The difficult part isn't always the wait. It can be the unexpected errand, the message asking for a ride, or a person who suddenly needs your help.

Don't drive after cannabis use. If a responsibility comes up, involve an unimpaired adult instead of trying to prove you're fine. Coffee, a snack, or feeling more alert isn't proof that impairment has ended.

Know where to get help

If you're worried about an exposure or reaction, call Poison Control in the United States at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Call 911 immediately if someone collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened.

You don't have to wait until you understand exactly what happened to ask for help. And a familiar-looking gummy or cookie doesn't make the effects familiar or predictable.

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