There are several routes of delivery available for you to safely and effectively consume your medical marijuana. The amount of cannabinoids such as THC received by the end user depends on the method chosen, such as vaporization.

Combustion

Combustion can be in a variety of forms, such as a pipe, water bong or rolled cannabis joint. It is generally not recommended as smoking can contribute to COPD and produces undesirable compounds that can be irritating to the lungs. 

  • Up to 30% of the active ingredients are lost in sidestream smoke and combustion
  • Effects are usually felt within 30 to 60 seconds and fully develop within 10 to 15 minutes
  • Effects typically last between 2 to 3 hours
  • A typical cannabis joint contains between 0.5 to 1 gram

Vaporization

A vaporizer is a device that heats the dried medical cannabis matter without causing combustion, producing a vapour rich in cannabinoids that can be inhaled directly. Several models of vaporizers are available and can be chosen based on your needs and preferences.

  • Much more efficient than smoking
  • Effects are usually felt within 30 to 60 seconds and fully develop within 10 to 15 minutes
  • Effects typically last between 2 to 3 hours
  • Does not produce undesirable compounds that can cause lung irritation
  • A typical vaporizer bowl contains between 0.1 to 0.25 grams

Edible Items

Cannabis can be infused into a variety of food products such as brownies and butters. 

  • Effects are usually felt within 30 to 60 minutes of ingesting an edible item
  • Effects typically last between 4 to 6 hours but can be longer for patients with a lower cannabinoid tolerance level
  • Provides a long-lasting steady dose, similar to extended release medication
  • More intense effect than inhalation, requiring caution when dosing

Whereas effects occur within minutes when smoking or vaporizing medical marijuana, they have a slower onset and a longer duration in the case of oral ingestion. The effects can also be 3 to 4 times more potent as compared to smoking or vaporizing. This makes it essential to manage oral doses carefully, with a rule of thumb being beginning with half or a quarter of a piece of an edible containing 1 gram of medical marijuana and waiting at least 60 minutes before ingesting higher amounts of edible items.