As Americans reduce their alcohol consumption, a new product category is rapidly gaining popularity: THC-infused cannabis beverages. Often marketed as low-calorie, alcohol-free alternatives, these drinks are now appearing in bars, grocery stores, and major retail chains. Industry analysts expect sales to grow significantly over the next decade.
While cannabis drinks are frequently framed as a “healthier” or more relaxed option than alcohol, public health experts caution that these products are not without risk, especially as they become more mainstream and accessible.
What Makes Cannabis Drinks Different?
Unlike smoking or vaping, cannabis beverages are consumed orally. THC is absorbed through the digestive system and processed by the liver, which converts it into a more potent compound. This can result in:
- –Delayed onset of effects (often 30 minutes to 2 hours)
- –Longer-lasting intoxication
- -Greater risk of overconsumption, as people may drink more before feeling effects
Because the effects are slower and less predictable, users may unintentionally consume too much, especially when cannabis drinks are treated like casual social beverages.
Short-Term Health Effects
Cannabis affects the brain and body regardless of how it is consumed. Short-term effects can include:
- -Anxiety or panic
- -Paranoia
- -Increased heart rate
- -Impaired memory, attention, and coordination
- -Slower reaction time
These effects can increase the risk of motor vehicle crashes and other injuries, particularly when cannabis drinks are consumed in social or bar-like settings where driving may follow.
Long-Term and Higher-Risk Impacts
With heavier or long-term use, cannabis may lead to more serious health consequences. Research links regular use to:
- -Ongoing attention and decision-making problems
- -Increased risk of cannabis-use disorder (addiction)
- -Worsening symptoms for individuals with anxiety, depression, or psychotic disorders
- –Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, a condition marked by severe nausea and vomiting
Certain populations face elevated risks, including:
- -Teens and young adults, whose brains are still developing
- –Pregnant people, due to potential impacts on fetal development
- -Individuals with heart conditions or mental health disorders
The Normalization Effect
As cannabis drinks are marketed alongside seltzers and mocktails, there is concern that their risks may be minimized or misunderstood. Unlike alcohol, cannabis beverages lack consistent federal regulations around labeling, serving size standardization, and consumer education—making it harder for people to assess potency and risk.
Safe Storage Matters
Safe storage is a critical harm-reduction strategy, especially as cannabis drinks enter homes where children, teens, or others may mistake them for ordinary beverages.
Cannabis drinks should be:
- -Stored in locked containers or refrigerators
- -Kept separate from non-cannabis drinks
- -Clearly labeled and kept in original packaging
- -Never left unattended or accessible to children or pets
Cannabis products should not be consumed in front of children or described as “regular drinks.” If no longer needed, products should be disposed of safely according to local guidelines.
Safe storage does not only apply to cannabis drinks: it’s important to secure opioids, medications, and narcotics to prevent misuse and accidental overdoses
To learn more, visit Cannabis drinks are having a moment even as Americans consume less alcohol from CBS News.
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