Health & Well-Being A-Z

Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC)

Description

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.

Is It Effective?

Effective

There is interest in using delta-8-THC for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Is it Safe?

Safety

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.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

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.

Drug interactions

It is not known if Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC) interacts with any medicines. Before taking Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC), talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.

Herb interactions

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Food interactions

There are no known interactions with foods.

Dosage

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.

Other names

Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta-8-THC, Diet Weed, Weed Light.

Disclaimer

Information on this website is for informational use only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While evidence-based, it is not guaranteed to be error-free and is not intended to meet any particular user’s needs or requirements or to cover all possible uses, safety concerns, interactions, outcomes, or adverse effects. Always check with your doctor or other medical professional before making healthcare decisions (including taking any medication) and do not delay or disregard seeking medical advice or treatment based on any information displayed on this website.

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