Effects of different methods of cannabis use on cognition and blood THC: A systematic review.
Progress in Neuro-psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry May 1, 2025 D. Behzad, S. Patel, R. Besa et al.
Inhaled cannabis routes (smoking, vaping) produce higher peak blood THC levels, while edible cannabis has a longer duration of action. Few differences between methods were found for cognitive performance, though two studies indicated worse attention after vaping versus edibles or smoking, and one study found worse memory with high-potency flower containing cannabidiol compared to concentrates. One study reported an inverse correlation between blood THC and cognition. Because THC levels are used to detect impairment, detection may be more challenging with edibles.