How to Dose Medical Cannabis Safely: Edibles, Tinctures, Vapes, and More

Starting medical cannabis can feel a little like learning a new language: milligrams, ratios, delivery methods, terpene profiles… and somehow everyone’s experience is different. The good news? Dosing doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few core principles—and a little patience—you can find a comfortable, consistent routine that supports your goals without overdoing it.

Quick note: This article is for education only and isn’t medical advice. Florida patients should always follow their physician’s guidance and the directions on their product labels.

1) The golden rule: Start low, go slow

If you remember one dosing principle, make it this: use the smallest amount that gets you the benefit you’re looking for—then increase gradually only if needed.

Why it matters:

• Everyone metabolizes cannabinoids differently (body chemistry, tolerance, diet, sleep, stress, and medications all play a role).

• Some products take longer to kick in than you’d expect—especially edibles—which can tempt people to “stack” doses too quickly. The CDC notes edible effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to be felt, and that delay is a common reason people take too much. (CDC)

Beginner-friendly starting points (general guidance):

• Inhalation (vape/flower): 1 small puff, wait 10–15 minutes, reassess.

• Edibles/tablets/capsules: consider starting around 2.5–5 mg THC (or less), then wait long enough before increasing.

• Tinctures (sublingual): start small, wait, track results, adjust gradually.

2) Know your timing: onset and duration change everything

New patients often “overdose” (uncomfortably high, not fatal overdose) because they’re using a slow-onset product like a fast-onset one.

A helpful rule of thumb:

• Inhalation: fastest onset, shorter ride

• Sublingual (under the tongue): relatively quick onset

• Ingestion (edibles/capsules/tablets): slowest onset, longest effects

A cannabis safety resource from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board summarizes typical ranges like:

• Inhalation: rapid onset (up to ~10 minutes), shorter duration (often ~1–3 hours)

• Sublingual: onset often ~10–30 minutes

• Ingestion (edibles/capsules): slower onset (often 1–4 hours) and longer duration (often 4–12 hours) (WSLCB)

Practical takeaway:
If you’re trying an edible/tablet, plan your session. Don’t take more because you “don’t feel it yet.”

3) THC, CBD, and ratios: choose your “steering wheel”

THC is usually the main driver of psychoactive effects (the “high”). CBD is non-intoxicating and, for many people, can feel more “balancing” alongside THC. That’s why balanced ratios (like 1:1 THC:CBD) are popular for newer patients aiming for function-friendly relief.

If you’re sensitive to THC, consider:

• Lower THC doses

• Balanced THC:CBD products

• Non-inhaled options for steadier, longer effects (with careful timing)

4) Terpenes matter—but dosing still comes first

Terpenes are aromatic compounds (also found in plants like citrus, pine, and lavender) that contribute to smell and may influence the character of effects for some patients. You’ll often hear:

• Myrcene = “heavier” vibes

• Limonene = brighter mood

• Pinene = clearer-headed feel

• Linalool = more calming

Treat terpene info as fine-tuning, not the foundation. Dose + delivery method usually determines whether you have a smooth experience.

5) Build a simple titration plan (that you can actually follow)

Here’s a beginner plan that works well for many Florida patients:

Step A: Pick one product + one time of day

Don’t change three variables at once. Choose:

• One product

• One method (tincture OR edible OR vape)

• One consistent time window (evening is often easiest)

Step B: Dose, wait, record

Write down:

• Dose (mg)

• Time taken

• Onset time

• Benefits you noticed

• Any side effects (dry mouth, anxiety, sleepiness, etc.)

Step C: Adjust slowly

Only increase after you’ve tried the same dose at least 2–3 times, unless your physician advises otherwise.

6) What if you take too much?

First: you’re going to be okay. “Too much THC” is usually uncomfortable, not dangerous—but it can feel intense.

Try this:

• Hydrate and eat something light

• Change your environment (dim lights, calm music)

• Slow your breathing

• Do not drive

• If you have a CBD product, some people find it helps take the edge off (results vary)

If you feel severe symptoms or something feels medically urgent, seek medical care.

Product picks for new patients (Florida locations on shop.greendragon.com)

These are options that make it easier to dose consistently—because consistency is what helps you learn your “sweet spot.”

1) A balanced tincture for controlled, adjustable dosing

Le Remedie — Drops Tincture Calm 1:1 THC:CBD (1 oz)
Balanced formulas are often a friendlier starting lane. This product is listed as 100mg THC:CBD total, 10mg per dose.
Link: https://shop.greendragon.com/tampa/menu/tinctures-972/edibles-drops-tincture-calm-1-1-thc-cbd-1oz-1-oz-77868 (shop.greendragon.com)

2) A “standard” gummy dose you can micro-dose by cutting

Green Dragon — Peach Hybrid Chews (100mg total / 10 pieces)
These are labeled as 10 pieces of 10mg each, which makes them easy to scale—many beginners start by cutting a piece into halves or quarters.
Link: https://shop.greendragon.com/tampa/menu/edibles-539/gummies-hybrid-peach-hybrid-chews-100-mg-94303 (shop.greendragon.com)

3) Discreet, consistent oral dosing

Le Remedie — Fast Acting Tablets THC (10ct / 100mg total)
Tablets provide repeatable dosing (helpful when you’re learning your baseline). This listing shows 10mg per dose and 100mg total.
Link: https://shop.greendragon.com/orlando/menu/tablets-974/tablets-fast-acting-tablets-thc---10ct-100-mg-70503 (shop.greendragon.com)

4) A topical option when you don’t want a strong psychoactive effect

Le Remedie — Extra Strength 1:1 THC:CBD Lotion (5oz)
Topicals are often used for localized comfort and are typically not intended for strong intoxicating effects; the listing also notes incremental application.
Link: https://shop.greendragon.com/ocala/menu/topicals-164011/lotion-extra-strength-1-1-thc-cbd-lotion-5oz-102039 (shop.greendragon.com)

FAQ: Medical cannabis dosing for beginners

How much THC should a new medical cannabis patient start with?

Many beginners start around 2.5–5 mg THC (or even less), then slowly increase over time if needed. Your best dose depends on your goals, tolerance, and your physician’s guidance.

How long should I wait before taking more?

It depends on the method. The CDC notes edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel intoxicating effects—so taking more too soon is a common mistake. (CDC) Many safety guides also note ingestion can last significantly longer than inhalation. (WSLCB)

What’s the difference between tinctures, edibles, and vapes for dosing?

In general: inhalation tends to hit fastest; tinctures (sublingual) are often fairly quick; and edibles/capsules/tablets are slower but longer-lasting. (WSLCB)

Should I choose THC, CBD, or a balanced ratio?

If you’re THC-sensitive or want a more “even” experience, balanced THC:CBD (like 1:1) is a common starting point. If you want stronger psychoactive effects, higher-THC products may feel more noticeable—just dose carefully.

Do terpenes change how strong a dose feels?

They can influence the character of effects for some people, but dose and delivery method usually matter most for intensity.

What if I don’t feel anything—does that mean it isn’t working?

Not necessarily. Timing, stomach contents, and product type can all change onset. If you’re using an edible or tablet, waiting long enough is key. (CDC)

Can I build tolerance?

Yes—especially with frequent THC use. Many patients take “low and steady” approaches or incorporate CBD-forward days to keep tolerance from creeping up.