Last reviewed October 18, 2026
There’s no quick way to get unhigh: the effects fade as your body processes the THC. What you can do is make the wait easier. Get somewhere calm and safe, sip water, eat something light, rest, and remind yourself it will pass. Inhaled effects usually ease within a few hours; edibles can last much longer.
Call 911 if someone has chest pain, trouble breathing, a seizure, can’t stay awake, or is very confused, or if a child or pet has eaten cannabis. Otherwise, your provincial health line or poison centre can give advice.
What helps while you wait
- Stop using. Don’t take more, of anything, to “balance it out”.
- Get comfortable. Find a quiet, familiar room, sit or lie down, and dim the lights if they bother you.
- Breathe slowly. In for 4 seconds, out for 6. It helps when your heart is racing.
- Drink water and have a light snack.
- Distract yourself with calm music, a familiar show or a friend you trust.
- Sleep it off if you can. You’ll feel better when you wake up.
How long until it wears off?
| Smoking or vaping | Edibles | |
|---|---|---|
| Main effects last | Up to 6 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Some residual effects | Up to 24 hours | Up to 24 hours |
Source: Health Canada.
What doesn’t work
- Alcohol: it adds to impairment.
- Coffee: it can make a racing heart or anxiety worse.
- Cold showers: fine if they help you feel calm, but they don’t speed anything up.
- Home remedies: tips like sniffing black pepper or taking CBD are popular, but there’s no reliable evidence they shorten a high.
Next time
Start with less, especially with edibles: Health Canada suggests 2.5 mg of THC or less, and waiting at least 2 hours before having more. Don’t drive until you feel completely normal.
Common questions
How do you sober up from edibles?
You can’t speed it up. Rest, water, food and time are what work.
What should I do when I’m too high?
Get somewhere calm, breathe slowly, drink water and remind yourself it will pass. Call 911 for serious symptoms.
Can you die from being too high?
A cannabis overdose isn’t fatal in the way an opioid overdose can be, but too much can cause severe anxiety, vomiting and accidents, and it’s especially dangerous for children and pets.
Does sleep help?
Yes. Sleeping through the worst of it is one of the most effective things you can do.
Sources: Health Canada, What you need to know if you choose to consume cannabis and Cannabis: lower your risks.
