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Cannabis Dosage
Cannabis, as medicine, has evolved considerably over the last few decades. The genetics of the plants have been bred to improve specific traits, such as improved THC, CBD, and CBN potency levels, higher yields, shorter flowering times, and much more!
Safely Dosing Your Medicine
Improved growing techniques also contribute to potency levels and overall quality of medicine. These improvements across the board result in differing effects, particularly for the user. Regardless of any cannabis usage in the past, HDR insists that our patients be aware of the potential effects of medical use of cannabis. If you are new to cannabis or want to understand potential side effects, please visit here.
Start Slow!
Dosing medical cannabis, unfortunately, is not an exact science. Regardless of the consistency of medicine, you are the “X-Factor.” Know that your body mass, age, metabolism, sex, and body chemistry will affect the effectiveness of the medicine. Thus, when consuming cannabis, please start slow.
Inhalation
Many users prefer to inhale or smoke cannabis because of its almost immediate effects and relief provided. Many times, one dose or ‘hit’ should be sufficient for the effect to take place. To not overly consume or be wasteful, start with one dose. Wait a few minutes to experience effects or lack thereof. If necessary, repeat as needed until desired effects are achieved.
Please note: We also recommend keeping a journal to record results for future use. Take note of the strain name, potency, and type (Indica, Sativa, Hybrid), as well as effect experiences, duration, and any other pertinent information of note.
Edibles
Do not take edibles on an empty stomach.
Many edibles are made with concentrated THC and/or CBD oils, then dosed accordingly into cannabis-derived products. Most often, edibles are ‘stronger’ than smoked flower, with longer lasting effects. Also, edibles take longer for your body to process than the almost immediate effects of smoking. Thus, the dosage should be small when trying a product that you are not familiar with. Please allow up to 90 minutes for the medicine to take maximum effect.
When dosing, please note the time of the initial dose:
See our edibles dosage chart for a milligram-by-milligram guide.
Drug Interaction
A drug interaction should always be considered when taking more than one medication.
Cannabis and THC have been shown to alter the absorption and elimination of other drugs. Because of the possible additive or synergistic action, cannabis should not be used in combination with alcohol, sedatives, or sleeping pills, as increased sedation is one potential outcome.
Please make sure to inform your medical provider of your cannabis usage so they are aware of the potential conflict with other medications.
Still have a question?
Ask a budtender at any of our six dispensaries in Albuquerque, Bernalillo, Santa Fe and Hobbs. We're happy to walk you through it.
