How do different routes of cannabis administration compare pharmacologically?

Route of administration dramatically affects onset, peak, duration, and bioavailability: Inhalation (smoking/vaporizing): onset 1–3 minutes, peak 10–30 minutes, duration 2–4 hours, bioavailability 10–35% (highly variable). Rapid onset makes titration easier but also enables rapid intoxication. Oral (edibles, capsules): onset 30–120 minutes, peak 2–4 hours, duration 6–12 hours, bioavailability 4–20%. THC undergoes extensive first-pass hepatic metabolism to 11-OH-THC (more potent, longer-acting than THC) — explaining why edibles feel qualitatively different. Sublingual (tinctures, nabiximols): onset 15–45 minutes, peak 1–2 hours, duration 4–8 hours, bioavailability 12–35%. Bypasses first-pass metabolism partially. Topical: minimal systemic absorption; local effects only. Transdermal patches: slow, consistent delivery; useful for chronic conditions. For clinical use, oral and sublingual routes are preferred for consistency; inhalation for acute symptom relief.