Drug and Alcohol

How Long Does a Delta 8 High Last?

How long does a Delta 8 high last? We answer this question and more in our blog about Delta 8 cannabis, a legal, over-the-counter substance.

How Long Does a Delta 8 High Last?

Table of Contents

Written by

Brian MooreBrian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

Jeremy ArztJeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

April 3, 2023

The Edge Treatment Center

If you have ever encountered the term "Delta 8," you might wonder what it is. You may have been exposed to someone using Delta 8 gummies or Delta 8 vapes and insisting it's legal.

Alternatively, someone may have offered you some sort of edibles that contain Delta 8 compound. However, you may still harbor concerns about the safety of such products containing the substance, as you may not be completely aware of what it is exactly. In addition, there may be doubts about any potential negative impacts the drug may cause. Delta 8 comes in different forms and potencies, which can affect unique individuals differently. 

This article will discuss what Delta 8 THC is, how it can impact the body and the mind, along with how long the high from this substance typically lasts. With this comprehensive information, you can decide about this legal cannabis compound.

By the Numbers:

Based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cannabis is among the most commonly consumed drugs in the United States, with a high prevalence of use among youth. According to the latest survey in 2021, 11.8 million individuals aged 18 to 25 reported using the drug in the past year.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a substance that can be found in the hemp plant and is not a strong psychoactive. Although it is classified as a type of cannabinoid, it is a very mild one. Delta 8 is often compared to Delta 9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound that is found in marijuana. However, the difference between the two is their potency. As this substance is only present in small amounts when compared to other substances, it is usually considered a minor cannabinoid. 

Delta 8 is federally legal in the United States, whereas delta 9 is considered an illicit substance. This difference occurs due to its source. 

  • The hemp plant: As the hemp plant does not even contain up to 0.3% of Delta 9, delta 8 sourced from it is considered legal. 

  • The marijuana plant: The marijuana plant, however, can contain as high as 30% of delta 9 content, making it an illegal source of delta 8 to be extracted from.

As this makes delta 8 legal, it is commonly used in many products for its calming effects, including:

  • Delta 8 gummies

  • Delta 8 soft gel capsules

  • Delta 8 pre-rolls

  • Delta 8 vape cartridges

  • Various other Delta 8 edibles

Similar to Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 is also used for relaxation purposes and may potentially help with pain relief, but it is significantly milder than Delta 9. In addition, Delta 8 is known to induce sensations of Euphoria. 

How Does Delta 8 Work?

Delta 8 THC is very similar to delta 9 THC in effects but not in molecular structure – which determines how a compound behaves in the body. Even though both activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, the impacts of both are not identical. 

What Are CB1 & CB2 Receptors?

CB1 receptors produce psychoactive impatcs on contact with cannabinoids, commonly known as 'the high' or a euphoric feeling. 

The CB2 receptors cause phycological changes as a reaction to cannabinoids in the system.  

However, Delta 8 THC interacts less intensely with CB1 receptors, resulting in a much milder high than delta 9 THC. Conversely, Delta 9 THC is more likely to overstimulate CB1 receptors, leading to anxiety and sometimes paranoia.

Can You Get High on Delta 8?

Despite being a legal substance in the United States, Delta 8 products are not entirely free of euphoric side effects. The drug can induce a 'high' because of its psychoactive properties. You may be curious about the impacts of Delta 8 foods and how they make you can change your mood. Someone who has taken Delta 8 products would usually experience an energizing jolt from even the smallest amounts of the substance, while higher doses can be soothing and act as sedatives.

It's also believed to aid in anxiety relief, pain management, and relaxation, sometimes even encouraging better sleep. However, some users may experience standard cannabis side effects, such as dry mouth, increased appetite, and redness of the eyeballs, when either delta 8 or delta 9 is consumed. 

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What Does A Delta 8 High Feel Like?

Everyone has a unique experience with different drugs; in the same way, people have varying reactions to delta 8. However, certain effects are commonly experienced after consuming products with the compound. Expect the following outcomes from indulging in a delta 8-rich product:

  • The feeling of euphoria

  • A sense of relaxation, calmness, and peace

  • Improved mood

  • Heightened bodily awareness 

Some users say delta 8 can lead to a sense of stress-free, calm, relaxed, and mellow presence. The substance can also be associated with helping enhance focus and energy, thereby boosting productivity throughout the day. Research also suggests that delta 8 has properties that can stimulate appetite, prevent nausea and vomiting, relieve anxiety, and protect the brain's cells and tissue. Therefore, it can be used to promote a healthy appetite, reduce pain and nausea, and protect the brain.

Most people who take delta 8 can carry out their day-to-day functions normally. This shows that although intoxicating, the substance does not always incapacitate the consumer. However, if someone were to try delta 8 for the first time, just to relax, it is crucial to ensure a safe environment when doing so. Being in a work or driving setting is not recommended, and it's best to stay at home to experience the effects of the product. It is also advised to ensure you consume a reasonable and secure amount. 

Side Effects of Delta 8

As delta 8 is derived from the hemp plant that produces the substance in the mildest form, for most people, its effects are calming and relaxing – when taken in moderate amounts. Taking the substance in large amounts can cause various side effects and health complications. However, they are not life-threatening. Excessive amounts of delta 8 can lead to several commonly observed side effects, such as:

  • Sudden dizziness

  • Dryness of the mouth

  • Lack of coordination

  • Red eyes

  • Increased heart rate

  • Poor motor control

  • Difficulty falling asleep/insomnia 

  • Fatigue and tiredness

  • Confusion and/or paranoia

If you start experiencing any of these side effects, it is better to discontinue delta 8 completely. Afterward, if and when you decide to try it again, it is recommended that you reduce the dosage significantly to minimize the associated risks. For individuals new to delta 8, it is the best practice to start with a little bit of the substance and then gradually increase the dosage until the optimal level is achieved. In any case, if the side effects worsen, you should consult with a medical professional for proper guidance. 

How Long Does Delta 8 High Last?

So, the big question – is, how long does a high from delta 8 last? There is no mathematical answer to this question. Just like with any other substance, how long it will provide the feeling of Euphoria and give the user a 'high' depends on many personal factors, such as:

  • Method of absorption 

  • Form of substance  

  • Potency of substance 

  • Product the substance is consumed in 

  • Tolerance of consumer 

The duration of 'high' produced by Delta-8 typically ranges from 3 to 8 hours, but it's important to note that the onset and duration can vary depending on the above-listed factors. So while the effects of Delta-8 may wear off rather rapidly, the compound can remain in your system for longer.

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How Long Will It Take for Delta 8 to Kick In?

It typically takes around 15 minutes to an hour for the delta 8 to kick in after consumption. Once it kicks in, the duration of Delta-8 effects can last up to eight hours, depending on the dosage consumed. However, it's essential to recognize that individual tolerance and metabolic rate can also impact the speed at which the effects of delta 8 wear off. Though the onset time for Delta 8 typically ranges around 15 minutes, this can vary depending on the specific type of product consumed.

Duration of Delta 8 High When Taken in Various Forms

As discussed, the product delta 8 is consumed in greatly impacts how long it produces a high for. This is a general breakdown of the products delta 8 can be consumed and the period of euphoric feeling associated with each –

Delta 8 in Edibles 

Two types of delta 8 edibles can be distinguished based on how they are metabolized. Certain edibles require full digestion, whereas others are formulated to dissolve in the mouth. These are as follows:

  • Digested Edibles: These can be products like cookies. Cookies need to be properly chewed and swallowed before the body can break them down and process them. As the breaking down of food is a slow process, this may take longer for the delta 8 in the cookies to kick in. After an estimate of 1-2 hours for the substance to kick in, it may also last longer in the system – resulting in longer effects. Effects of delta 8 from consuming it in cookies can last up to 8 hours. Effects seem to peak after 3-4 hours and then begin to taper off. 

  • Dissolving Edibles: The dissolving edibles designed for slow dissolving in the mouth fall under this category. These can be candies, chews, and delta 8 in gummies. These are absorbed through the mouth and can produce effects up to 1-2 hours. 

Delta 8 in Tinctures  

Tinctures are similar to dissolving edibles with delta 8 contents. They are absorbed by the mucous membranes of the mouth and kick in quickly, usually in just 30 minutes or even less. The effect of a euphoric high may last up to 3-5 hours from this type of consumable that contains delta 8. 

Delta 8 THC in Vaporizers 

Vaporizers and inhalants may be the quickest form of delta 8 to take effect. They typically start impacting in about 15 minutes, if not less. However, the body metabolizes and digests substances more quickly through inhalation and vaporization. Due to this, the high may only last 3-5 hours.   

How Long Does Delta 8 THC Stay in the System? 

When it comes to how long delta 8 stays in the system, it is said to be very similar to delta 9. After consumption, delta 8 THC can be detected in your saliva for around 48 hours and in your bloodstream for up to 36 hours. Nevertheless, for some individuals, the substance may persist in the body for longer, sometimes up to a month or beyond.

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Does Delta 8 Show Up in Drug Tests?

Delta-8 is detectable on drug tests as a conventional drug screening panel will be able to detect THC metabolites, which are not solely specific to Delta-9. However, Delta-8 will only register on a drug test if it or its metabolites are still present in your system.

The duration it takes your body to metabolize and eliminate any residual THC varies among individuals due to factors like metabolism and body fat. Residual THC can appear in your urine and in urine drug test results.

Furthermore, frequent usage of THC prolongs the elimination process from the body. Therefore, an individual who takes THC once may have a THC-free urine sample much sooner than someone who has regularly consumed THC over extended periods.

Do I Need Treatment for Delta 8 Addiction? 

Though it is not very common for an addiction to develop on delta 8, rehab can be the way to go if it does and you or your loved ones want to address it. Many rehab facilities are established nationwide to help anyone struggling with an addiction. Rehab facilities are prepared to take care of withdrawal symptoms associated with detox. These setups have teams of experienced medical guides to help you through your journey and provide support and care as per personal requirements.

Finding a drug rehab center that fits your needs is easy – a simple google search can do the trick. You can even consult with your local doctor; they should be able to provide a good recommendation. 

How Can The Edge Treatment Center Help?

The Edge Treatment Center provides expert, evidence-based help for substance abuse and more. It's possible to abuse over-the-counter supplements and medications like Delta 8 ... and get addicted to them, too. For us, addiction is about behaviors and outcomes rather than a particular substance. This allows us to successfully treat addiction, and provide the resources our patients need to build successful lives.

Delta 8 can disrupt a life like any other drug. If you're tired of Delta 8 abuse, reach out to The Edge Treatment Center today.

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