What are Sublingual Formats?
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Let’s start with the word sublingual. It simply means “under the tongue.” Although consumed orally, sublingual medical cannabis formats are different than edibles in how they’re absorbed by the body.
Common examples of sublingual formats include (1) :
- Oils
- Oral Sprays
- Dissolving Quick Strips
How to use sublingual formats
Using sublingual formats is very straightforward:
- Place dose under your tongue. If using an oil, measure your dose using the included oral syringe. If using an oral spray, aim the nozzle under your tongue and press down on the pump.
- Hold your dose under your tongue for approximately 60 to 90 seconds.
- Swallow the rest.
Holding the dose under your tongue allows cannabinoids to be absorbed through the mucous membranes beneath the tongue and into your bloodstream.
What is the onset time for sublingual formats?
Health Canada notes that when you dissolve sublingual formats under your tongue, you (1) :
- Start to feel the effects within 15 to 40 minutes
- Could feel the strongest effects after 1.5 to 4 hours
- Could feel effects for up to 12 hours
Why choose a sublingual format?
Since they’re administered under the tongue, sublingual formats don’t require smoking or vaping, providing patients with a convenient and discreet way to support their medical cannabis routine.
Start low and go slow
As always, please follow Health Canada’s guidance of starting with the lowest dose and waiting to see how it affects you before taking more (2) .
References
1. Health Canada. Cannabis for medical purposes: Using a cannabis product. Government of Canada.
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/topics/accessing-cannabis-for-medical-purposes/cannabis-medical-purposes/using-cannabis-product.html
2. Health Canada. Lower your risks from cannabis. Government of Canada.
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-medication/cannabis/resources/lower-your-risks.html
