Glossary term
Duration of effect: Duration of effect means how long the noticeable effects of a dose last. It is not the same as onset.
Why this term matters
Patients need this to plan work, driving, symptom tracking and timing of doses.
UK medical cannabis context
NICE expects discussion of how long medicines may take to work and broader patient counselling.
What not to assume
Duration varies by route, dose, timing, food and individual response.
Careful wording: Avoid fixed promises such as “lasts exactly X hours”.
Related glossary terms
Related MCPH pages
Sources and review notes
This entry is educational vocabulary, not medical advice. Suitability, prescribing, product choice and monitoring belong with a qualified clinician or pharmacist.
- NICE NG144: cannabis-based medicinal products
- Technical chemistry / terminology review note. Used as terminology context only, not as standalone clinical guidance.