Weed Drinks: The Next Big Alternative to Alcohol?

With cannabis legalization expanding across the United States, a new trend has emerged: weed-infused beverages. Touted as a modern alternative to alcohol, these drinks promise a social buzz with fewer calories, natural ingredients, and no hangover. But while they may seem like an appealing option, experts warn that the science behind these beverages is still lacking and potential risks may be underestimated.

The Rise of THC-Infused Drinks

From Minnesota to California, more bars, breweries, and beverage companies are embracing cannabis-infused drinks. These products contain THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for producing a high. Many consumers are drawn to these drinks as a seemingly healthier, more socially acceptable way to unwind without alcohol’s known drawbacks.

The amount of THC per serving varies, typically ranging from 2 to 10 milligrams. In Minnesota, for example, state law limits edibles to 5 mg per serving. Yet, because cannabis affects everyone differently, even low doses can be unpredictable. “The effects of THC are extremely individualized everyone responds to cannabis products differently,” explains Leah Sera, PharmD, MA, BCPS, co-director of the Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.

Why Experts Urge Caution

Despite the growing popularity of cannabis beverages, research on their safety remains limited. Since cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug federally alongside substances like LSD and heroin clinical studies on its health effects are difficult to conduct.

“There’s an enormous industry that is promoting cannabis products for pretty much every indication, and it’s all happening in lieu of any data,” says Margaret Haney, PhD, director of the Cannabis Research Laboratory at Columbia University Medical Center.

Because controlled trials are rare, experts like Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD, from the National Capital Poison Center, emphasize that we don’t yet know how much THC constitutes a safe or toxic dose in drinkable forms.

Are Weed Drinks Really Hangover-Free?

Some companies market these beverages as "hangover-free," but that may be misleading. While alcohol typically causes dehydration and other physiological changes that contribute to hangovers, cannabis affects the body differently. Tory R. Spindle, PhD, a researcher at the Johns Hopkins Cannabis Science Laboratory, says whether someone experiences lingering effects from THC the next day depends on multiple factors such as the amount consumed, tolerance levels, and individual metabolism.

Moreover, many cannabis drinks use nanoemulsion technology, which allows THC to be absorbed much faster than traditional edibles. This means effects may kick in within 5 to 10 minutes rather than hours. While that may sound convenient, it also increases the risk of overconsumption as users may drink more while waiting for the full effects to set in.

Health Risks and Safety Concerns

Despite their growing popularity, cannabis drinks are not without risks:

• Impaired coordination and delayed reaction times: THC can impair driving or operating machinery for up to eight hours.

• Overconsumption symptoms: Too much THC may lead to nausea, increased heart rate, anxiety, or paranoia.

• Dependence potential: Cannabis use, even in beverage form, can lead to marijuana use disorder, although data on the specific risks related to drinks is still lacking.

• Unknown long-term effects: The absence of long-term studies leaves many questions unanswered about how frequent consumption may impact brain health, especially in younger adults.

Will Research Catch Up?

Because cannabis remains federally illegal, scientists face numerous regulatory hurdles when attempting to study THC products. “It’s kind of like the Wild West with these products, and there’s very little regulation,” Haney explains.

Still, experts hope that as cannabis legalization progresses, more funding and research opportunities will emerge, providing much-needed data to guide safe consumption practices.

The Bottom Line

THC-infused drinks may offer an intriguing alternative for those seeking a new kind of buzz, but they are far from risk-free. Without comprehensive research, consumers should approach these beverages with caution, especially given their unpredictable effects and the potential for overconsumption. As always, moderation and informed decision-making remain key.

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