What is the duration of detection of 5 milligrams of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the body after consuming an edible?

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Last updated: April 15, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

A 5mg THC edible typically stays in your body for about 3-4 days for occasional users, but can remain detectable for up to 30 days in frequent users. THC is fat-soluble, meaning it gets stored in fat cells and takes longer to eliminate than water-soluble substances 1. After consumption, the THC is metabolized by your liver into compounds that can be detected in urine, blood, saliva, and hair tests. Detection windows vary by test type:

  • urine tests (most common) can detect THC metabolites for 3-30 days depending on usage frequency
  • blood tests for 1-2 days
  • saliva tests for 1-3 days
  • and hair tests for up to 90 days. Factors affecting how long THC remains detectable include your metabolism, body fat percentage, hydration levels, and frequency of cannabis use 1. The 5mg dose is relatively low, so if you're a first-time or occasional user, it will likely clear your system faster than for someone who uses cannabis regularly. It's also important to note that the onset of oral THC effects may be ≥1 hour after ingestion, and adults with cancer who are unfamiliar with using oral cannabis products must be cautioned about stacking doses to avoid side effects 1.

From the Research

Duration of 5mg THC Edible in the Body

  • The duration of 5mg THC edible in the body is not directly addressed in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • However, the studies discuss the effects of THC on anxiety, mood, and anxiety disorders, as well as its potential therapeutic uses 2, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies also mention the importance of considering the dose-dependent effects of THC, as high doses can produce anxiogenic effects, while low doses may have anxiolytic effects 2, 5, 6.
  • The half-life of THC, which is the time it takes for the concentration of the drug to reduce by half, is not specified in the provided studies, but it is known to vary depending on factors such as the method of consumption, individual metabolism, and frequency of use.
  • Further research is needed to determine the exact duration of 5mg THC edible in the body, as well as its effects on individuals with different medical conditions and demographics 4, 5.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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