THC Drinks: The Complete Buying Guide for 2025

THC drinks are cannabis-infused beverages that deliver the effects of tetrahydrocannabinol in liquid form—offering a smoke-free, precisely dosed alternative to traditional cannabis products. Whether you're curious about trying cannabis for the first time or looking for a healthier substitute for alcohol, THC beverages have become one of the fastest-growing categories in the wellness space.

But with dozens of formats, dose levels, and cannabinoid combinations on the market, choosing your first THC drink can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: the different types of cannabis beverages, how to match your goals to the right product, and what to look for when shopping.

Types of THC Drinks: Know Your Options

THC beverages come in several distinct formats, each designed for different occasions and preferences. Understanding these categories is the first step toward finding your perfect match.

Seltzers

THC seltzers are light, carbonated, and refreshing—think of them as the hard seltzer of the cannabis world. They typically contain 5-10mg of THC per can with minimal calories and sugar. Seltzers are ideal for social settings where you want something sessionable that won't weigh you down. Browse our full THC seltzer collection to see what's available.

Mocktails and Cocktail Alternatives

Cannabis mocktails deliver complex, craft-cocktail flavors without the alcohol. These are perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or anyone who misses the ritual of a well-made drink. Expect flavor profiles ranging from botanical gin alternatives to tropical margarita vibes.

Tonics and Shots

Concentrated and functional, THC tonics and shots pack a punch in a smaller package. They're designed for experienced users who know their dose and want efficiency over sipping. Some are formulated with additional adaptogens or cannabinoids for targeted effects like energy or sleep.

Teas and Coffees

Cannabis-infused teas and coffees blend the familiar comfort of your morning or evening ritual with the benefits of THC. These tend to be lower-dose and focused on relaxation or functional wellness rather than recreational effects.

Sodas

THC sodas bring nostalgic, sweeter flavor profiles to the category. If you prefer root beer, cola, or fruit punch over craft cocktail flavors, cannabis sodas offer a fun entry point with familiar taste profiles.

Choosing the Right Dose for Your Experience Level

Dosing is the most important decision you'll make when selecting a THC drink. Unlike alcohol, where a "standard drink" is relatively universal, THC affects everyone differently based on tolerance, body chemistry, and experience level.

Microdose: 2-2.5mg THC

Best for absolute beginners or those seeking subtle mood enhancement without noticeable intoxication. At this level, you might feel slightly more relaxed or present, but you'll remain fully functional. Many people microdose THC drinks throughout the day the way others might have a cup of tea.

Low Dose: 5mg THC

The sweet spot for most social situations. A 5mg drink delivers a light, pleasant buzz comparable to a glass of wine—noticeable but not overwhelming. This is where most people start when they want to actually feel something without going overboard.

Standard Dose: 10mg THC

A full recreational experience for users with some cannabis tolerance. At 10mg, expect pronounced euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception. If you're new to THC, this dose may be too intense—work your way up from 5mg first.

High Dose: 15-25mg+ THC

Reserved for experienced users with established tolerance. High-potency drinks are not beginner-friendly and can cause anxiety or discomfort if you're not prepared for the intensity.

For a deeper dive into finding your ideal dose, our complete dosing guide walks through the factors that affect how THC hits you and how to dial in your perfect amount.

THC Drinks vs Edibles: Why Beverages Hit Different

If you've tried THC gummies or brownies before, you might wonder why THC drinks deserve their own category. The answer comes down to absorption speed and predictability.

Traditional edibles must pass through your digestive system and liver before taking effect—a process that can take 1-2 hours and produces variable results depending on what you've eaten. Many people have had the experience of eating an edible, feeling nothing after an hour, taking more, and then getting hit with a double dose they weren't expecting.

THC drinks are different. Most quality cannabis beverages use nano-emulsion technology, which breaks THC into tiny, water-soluble particles that absorb directly through the soft tissues in your mouth and stomach. The result: effects typically begin within 15-30 minutes—fast enough to feel and adjust in real time, similar to how you'd pace yourself with alcohol.

This faster onset makes THC drinks far more predictable and controllable than traditional edibles. You can sip, wait, and decide whether you want more—rather than committing to a mystery timeline. We cover this comparison in depth in our dedicated breakdown.

What to Look for When Shopping

Not all THC drinks are created equal. Here's what separates quality products from questionable ones.

Clear Cannabinoid Content

Every reputable THC beverage should clearly state the milligrams of THC per serving and per container. Watch out for products that obscure this information or use confusing serving sizes. If a can contains 20mg total but has "4 servings," that's 5mg per serving—make sure you understand what you're actually consuming.

Third-Party Lab Testing

Quality brands provide certificates of analysis (COAs) from independent labs verifying potency and purity. These tests confirm that what's on the label matches what's in the bottle—and that the product is free from contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents.

Cannabinoid Combinations

Many THC drinks include additional cannabinoids like CBD or CBN. CBD can moderate THC's intensity and add relaxation benefits, while CBN is often included in sleep-focused formulas. Consider what experience you're looking for when evaluating these combinations.

Ingredients Quality

Check for natural flavors and sweeteners versus artificial additives. The best THC drinks taste like something you'd actually want to drink—not a compromise you tolerate for the effects.

If you're new to cannabis beverages, our THC Drinks 101 guide covers the fundamentals of how these products work and what to expect from your first experience.

Are THC Drinks Safe?

One of the most common questions from newcomers: are THC drinks actually safe to consume?

The short answer is yes—with appropriate use. Unlike alcohol, THC has no known lethal dose. You cannot fatally overdose on cannabis beverages. However, consuming too much can lead to uncomfortable side effects like anxiety, paranoia, increased heart rate, nausea, or dizziness. These effects are temporary and typically resolve within a few hours, but they're unpleasant enough that proper dosing matters.

The key to safe consumption is starting low and going slow. Begin with 2.5-5mg, wait at least 30-45 minutes before considering more, and don't mix with alcohol—especially as a beginner. The combination can intensify effects unpredictably.

Drug Testing Considerations

THC drinks will cause you to test positive on standard drug screenings. There is no functional difference between hemp-derived THC and marijuana-derived THC when it comes to drug tests. If you're subject to testing for work or other reasons, be aware that any THC consumption puts you at risk.

Who Should Avoid THC Drinks

Pregnant or nursing individuals should avoid THC products entirely. Those with a history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or severe anxiety disorders should consult a healthcare provider before trying cannabis. And anyone taking medications that interact with cannabinoids should check with their doctor first.

For a complete breakdown of safety considerations and potential risks, see our dedicated health and safety guide.

Where to Find THC Drinks

Depending on where you live and what type of THC drink you're looking for, you have several options.

Online (Hemp-Derived, Ships Nationwide)

Hemp-derived THC drinks containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill and can be shipped directly to most states. This is often the most convenient option—and gives you access to the widest selection of products without geographic limitations. Our guide to finding THC drinks covers exactly how to shop online safely.

Dispensaries

In states with legal recreational or medical cannabis programs, licensed dispensaries carry marijuana-derived THC beverages. These may have higher potency options than hemp-derived products, but availability depends entirely on your state's laws.

Retail Stores

Major retailers like Total Wine, Binny's, and specialty beverage shops increasingly stock hemp-derived THC drinks alongside their non-alcoholic offerings. Availability varies by location and state regulations.

We've put together a comprehensive breakdown of where to purchase cannabis beverages both online and locally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are THC drinks legal?

Hemp-derived THC drinks containing less than 0.3% THC by dry weight are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, some states have additional restrictions or outright bans. Always verify your state's specific regulations before purchasing.

How fast do THC drinks kick in?

Most THC drinks take effect within 15-30 minutes thanks to nano-emulsion technology. This is significantly faster than traditional edibles, which can take 1-2 hours. Peak effects typically occur around 60-90 minutes after consumption.

Do THC drinks show up on drug tests?

Yes. Standard drug tests cannot distinguish between hemp-derived and marijuana-derived THC. Any THC consumption—including legal hemp beverages—will cause you to test positive on most common screening methods.

Are THC drinks healthier than alcohol?

THC drinks avoid many of alcohol's documented health risks, including liver damage, addiction potential, and hangover symptoms. However, THC has its own considerations, particularly for mental health and cognitive function. Neither is risk-free, but many people find THC beverages to be a gentler alternative for social occasions.

How long do THC drink effects last?

Effects typically last 2-4 hours for most people, though this varies based on dose, individual metabolism, and tolerance. Our detailed guide covers the full timeline of what to expect.

What's the strongest THC drink available?

High-potency THC drinks can contain 50-100mg+ per bottle. However, these are intended for experienced users with significant tolerance. Beginners should start with 5mg or less regardless of what's available on the market.

The Bottom Line

THC drinks offer a convenient, precisely dosed, and increasingly sophisticated way to experience cannabis. Whether you're replacing your evening cocktail, exploring cannabis for the first time, or looking for a social beverage without the hangover, there's a THC drink that fits your needs.

The key is matching the format and dose to your goals: seltzers for light social sipping, mocktails for craft-cocktail experiences, shots for efficiency, and always starting with a lower dose than you think you need.

Ready to find your first THC beverage? Browse our full collection to explore seltzers, mocktails, tonics, and more from trusted brands. Or check out our curated picks for the top cannabis beverages on the market right now.