Onset Time for THC Drinks: How Fast Do They Work?

Unlike smoking (which kicks in almost instantly) or edibles (which can take 90 minutes), THC drinks usually start working within 30–60 minutes.
Why the middle ground? It’s all about sublingual + digestive absorption. When you sip a beverage, some THC absorbs directly into your bloodstream through your mouth. The rest is processed through your digestive system.
- On an empty stomach: effects may start in 20–30 min
- With food: more like 45–60 min
- Afterdream users typically report a rising sense of calm around 30–45 minutes.
Pro tip: Sip slowly. Don’t chug. Give your body time to adjust—especially if you’re new.