Edibles - advice for keeping yourself and others safe
This page will provide information about edibles, their effects, and how to stay safe if you or someone you know is using them.
Understanding edibles
Edibles are food or drink products that contain cannabis, such as brownies, gummies, or cookies.
There are different types of edibles, and they often come in the form of things like cakes, packaged sweets, chocolate bars, and other food products. They often look very similar to genuine branded products.
They are an alternative way to consume cannabis, and the effects of edibles may take longer to kick in compared to smoking.
You can find out more about other ways of taking cannabis, including smoking, by following the link below:
Find out more about cannabis (weed)
Cannabis is a Class B drug. This means it’s illegal for you to have it, or to give it to someone else.
You can be arrested and charged for having cannabis in your possession. You could get an unlimited fine, or up to 5 years in prison, or both. If you give cannabis to someone else, you could get up to 14 years prison, an unlimited fine, or both.
There are also laws against drug driving like there are for drink driving.
Edibles side effects and risks
It's easy to take too much. Edibles can take several hours to show their effects, and some people might consume more, thinking they haven't had enough or they haven’t worked. This can lead to discomfort, anxiety, or a bad experience.
The effects can be unpredictable. It can be difficult to know how strong edibles are or what other substances they contain. This means they can have stronger and more intense effects than smoking.
It can cause anxiety or paranoia. Some people may experience anxiety or paranoia after consuming edibles, especially if they are new to cannabis or consume too much.
Keeping yourself safe
There are ways to reduce the risks of using edibles:
Stay low and go slow. Begin with a small amount, especially if you are new to edibles. It's easier to control the effects this way.
Be patient. Edibles take time to kick in and several hours to reach their peak, and last much longer than smoking or vaping cannabis. Make sure you’ve waited to see.
Don't mix with alcohol or other substances. Combining edibles with alcohol or other drugs can intensify their effects and increase risks.
You can find out more about how cannabis interacts with other substances on the website Drugs and Me by following the link below:
Drugs and Me: learn how cannabis interacts with other substances.
Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid potentially risky activities while under the influence of edibles.
Keep your edibles in a secure place. Because edibles can look just like normal food products, people might not know that they are edibles. Keep them in a secure place so people don’t accidentally consume them.
Don't be afraid to call for help. If someone might be having problems because of edibles or any other cannabis, call for help.
If someone is unconscious or having difficulty breathing, always call 999. Don't worry; the ambulance won't bring the police unless it's a very specific situation.
Place the person in the recovery position. Here’s a quick guide to the recovery position. If you don’t remember, get them on their side.
Naloxone, the drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, does not work on cannabis.
Getting support with edibles
If you want to take steps to address your drug use, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You’re not alone and there's nothing to be ashamed of. There is lots of help and support available. Speak to your doctor about how you’re feeling and speak to supportive family and friends if you can.
Advice and support is always available from your local Change Grow Live Service. If you’re struggling with drugs or alcohol, we’re here to help.