What are Cannabis Drinks?

What are cannabis-infused drinks?

Cannabis-infused drinks contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive ingredient found in Cannabis plants. These are not the same products as CBD-infused beverages. Cannabis-infused drinks have been available in the United States since 2010, and have recently surged in popularity. In the United States, cannabis-infused drinks may also contain other substances including caffeine, alcohol, cannabidiol (CBD), or delta-8 THC. Common brands of cannabis-infused drinks include Cann^®, Keef^®, and Artet^®. 

Who can buy cannabis-infused drinks?

Cannabis-infused drinks are sold in many states including California, Colorado, Maryland, and Michigan. Some companies offer free same-day or next-day delivery, and the drinks are also available in some cannabis dispensaries. Sales of cannabis-infused drinks are generally restricted to people aged 21 and over, but at least one company sells to their products to younger individuals who possess a state medical marijuana card.

How much THC is in cannabis-infused drinks?

There is no standard dose of THC in cannabis-infused drinks, and the THC content varies by product and manufacturer. Some cannabis-infused drinks are marketed as “low-dose” beverages and contain 2-4 mg THC per 8-ounce container, while other “low dose” products contain higher concentrations of THC. There is no standardized maximum amount that a “low-dose” product could contain. Some cannabis-infused beverage products can contain 100-200 mg of THC per 8.5-ounce bottle. It’s important to pay attention to the concentration of the product, the amount you consume, and how quickly you consume it.

Do cannabis-infused drinks get you high?

Since they contain the psychoactive compound THC, cannabis-infused drinks can cause drowsiness, relaxation, euphoria, and other symptoms of cannabis intoxication. Different brands of cannabis-infused drinks contain varying amounts of THC, so signs and symptoms may differ from person to person based on what was consumed. Infused beverages that contain other ingredients, including alcohol and caffeine, may cause other side effects. Contact poison control immediately if you experience unwanted or unexpected symptoms after consuming cannabis-infused drinks.

How fast do cannabis-infused drinks work?

Since liquids are absorbed by the body faster than solids, consumption of cannabis-infused beverages may cause clinical effects to occur more rapidly than consumption of traditional cannabis edibles such as cookies and brownies. After ingestion of cannabis-containing products such as drinks or edibles, symptoms of cannabis intoxication can occur within 30 minutes to several hours.

Are cannabis drinks healthier than alcohol?

Many manufacturers of cannabis-infused beverages advertise their products as being “gentle”, “smooth”, and offering “a different kind of buzz”. Compared to alcoholic drinks, cannabis-infused beverages reportedly cause no hangover and contain fewer calories.  Some are marketed as alcohol substitutes. However, there is no scientific evidence that cannabis drinks are a healthier alternative to alcoholic beverages. Cannabis plants and extracts may contain pesticides, heavy metals, or other unwanted contaminants. Many cannabis-infused beverages contain added sugar to make the drinks taste better. Cannabis use is associated with abnormal brain function and decreased learning abilities, and may also be linked to the development of anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Additionally, cannabis can be addictive, with 9% of users becoming dependent on the drug.

Are cannabis drinks safe?

The United States Food and Drug Administration does not regulate most cannabis products – in fact, no government entity regulates non-prescription, consumer cannabis products. The quality and safety of cannabis-infused drinks may vary between manufacturers, and the long-term health risks of cannabis drink consumption are not well described in scientific studies. Unexpected or unwanted signs and symptoms may occur after consumption of cannabis-infused drinks, especially those that contain other ingredients such as ethanol. These products are intended for consumption by adults only; children may become ill and require hospitalization after consumption of cannabis products. Some cannabis drinks, such as Not Your Father’s Root Beer, have similar names or packaging as other products that do not contain cannabis. People may unintentionally confuse one product with another and experience unwanted side effects as a result of drinking too much of the beverage or consuming it too quickly.

Are cannabis drinks legal?

In the United States, cannabis is classified as a Schedule 1 drug, meaning that it has no accepted medical use and carries a high potential for abuse. Although some states have legalized recreational possession and use of the drug, cannabis products (including edible products such as beverages) remain illegal on the federal level. In Canada, cannabis-infused beverages can be legally sold in certain retail establishments, as long as they are approved by Health Canada and meet certain regulatory requirements. For example, cannabis products sold in Canada are not allowed to contain nicotine, caffeine, or alcohol. In addition, cannabis products sold in Canada must not have packaging that could appeal to young persons. 

What should I do if I get sick from drinking cannabis-infused beverages?

If you experience adverse or unexpected symptoms from consuming cannabis-infused beverages, get guidance from Poison Control immediately. Help from Poison Control is available at webPOISONCONTROL and by phone at 1-800-222-1222. Both options are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.

Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD
Medical Toxicologist

For media inquiries, please contact Krista Osterthaler at osterthaler@poison.org.