Start low and go slow

There is no standard cannabis dose for arthritis. Clinical guidance from pain specialists and public health agencies says to start with 1 to 2.5 mg of THC. Wait at least two hours before taking more if you use edibles. For inhaled products, wait 15 minutes. Increase by 1 to 2.5 mg until you get pain relief without unwanted effects like anxiety, dry mouth, or racing heart. Many patients find a balance of CBD and THC works better than THC alone. CBD does not cause a high, and it may reduce joint pain and inflammation. A common starting ratio is 1 part THC to 1 to 5 parts CBD. You can buy tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, and inhalable products. Choose products with lab testing for potency and contaminants. Keep a log of dose, time, and symptoms to find your personal range.

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What to look for when buying

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Pitfalls to avoid

FAQ

How long until cannabis helps arthritis pain? Inhaled products work in minutes. Edibles take 1 to 2 hours. Topicals may take 15 to 30 minutes. Full effects for chronic pain may take 1 to 2 weeks of regular use.

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Can I use CBD only? Yes. Some patients get relief from CBD alone, for example with topicals. Start with 10 to 20 mg of CBD by mouth or apply a topical with 50 to 100 mg CBD per ounce.

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What if I feel too high? Stay calm, drink water, and rest. A dose of 1 to 2.5 mg THC does not often cause severe effects. If you take too much edible, effects can last 4 to 6 hours. Do not drive.

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Do I need a medical card? Rules vary by state. Check your local laws before buying.