Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC)
OTHER NAME(S): Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta-8-THC, Diet Weed, Weed Light, Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta 8, Delta-8, Delta-8 THC, Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta-8-tétrahydrocannabinol (delta-8-THC)
Overview
Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8-THC) is a cannabinoid from Cannabis sativa. It's similar to delta-9-THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis.
Cannabinoids in cannabis work by binding to sites in the brain and on the nerves. Delta-8-THC is similar to delta-9-THC, but appears to be less psychoactive. The natural concentration of delta-8-THC in cannabis and hemp is low, so most delta-8-THC is synthetically made in a lab.
People use delta-8-THC for nausea and vomiting caused by cancer drug treatment, glaucoma, trouble sleeping, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Keep in mind that delta-8-THC hasn't been evaluated by the US FDA for safety, and legality isn't clear. It's banned in some states, and legal in others. Also, the amount of delta-8-THC in products might vary significantly. Some products might also contain contaminants.
Uses
We currently have no information for Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC) overview.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if delta-8-THC is safe. It might cause side effects such as difficulty thinking and speaking, and feeling "high." Regular use might also cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). CHS leads to severe nausea and vomiting that doesn't respond to typical anti-nausea drugs.
Precautions
When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if delta-8-THC is safe. It might cause side effects such as difficulty thinking and speaking, and feeling "high." Regular use might also cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). CHS leads to severe nausea and vomiting that doesn't respond to typical anti-nausea drugs.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if delta-8-THC is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children: Taking delta-8-THC by mouth is possibly unsafe. Delta-8-THC gummies and candies have been eaten by children by mistake, leading to hospitalization. Side effects might include extreme tiredness, low blood pressure, and slowed heart rate.
Interactions
We currently have no information for Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC) overview.
Dosing
Delta-8-THC is available in many different types of products, including foods, dried plant products, and smoking and vaping products. The amount of delta-8-THC in products might vary significantly. Some products might also contain contaminants. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.
Keep in mind that delta-8-THC hasn't been evaluated by the US FDA for safety, and legality isn't clear. It's banned in some states, and legal in others.
References
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- US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA, FTC Continue Joint Effort to Protect Consumers Against Companies Illegally Selling Copycat Delta-8 THC Food Products. July 16, 2024. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-ftc-continue-joint-effort-protect-consumers-against-companies-illegally-selling-copycat-delta-8. Accessed July 22, 2024.