Delta 8 THC is a component of cannabis sativa (marijuana), but is chemically different from delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. While Delta 8 has a biological structure similar to that of Delta 9, it provides its consumers with a milder psychoactive effect. Other plant cannabinoids include delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabinol and cannabidiol (CBD); CBD is the second major psychoactive component of cannabis. Despite its milder effects, the FDA has warned about the safety of Delta 8 products due to their potential to cause adverse health effects. Many studies have explored the relationship between cannabis and psychosis.
In a systematic review, Moore and his colleagues surveyed the literature on this topic. They analyzed longitudinal population-based studies, as well as nested case-control studies that evaluated the impact of cannabis use on the subsequent development of psychosis. The “psychosis outcomes” required the diagnosis of a primary psychotic disorder or affective psychosis, or the onset of delusions, hallucinations, or thought disorders during the study period. The results of 7 cohort studies showed a 40% increase in the risk of psychosis in cannabis users compared to non-users. The data also revealed a dose-response effect: the risk of psychotic symptoms increased by approximately 50 to 200% in those who frequently used cannabis compared to non-users. In addition, at the outset, patients showed reduced functional connectivity in a resting state between the seed region of the bilateral nucleus accumulbens (NaC) and the prefrontal cortical regions involved in reward processing.
Only one region, within the visual cortex, showed greater connectivity to NaC in patients than in controls. Both smoked and oral THC increased connectivity between the accumulbens and prefrontal regions, and greater connectivity was associated with a higher level of plasma THC in the combined patient sample. The authors interpreted these findings as consistent with the hypothesis that reward circuits are disrupted in schizophrenia and CUD, and that, by improving this alteration, low doses of THC could reduce cannabis use in this population. Since Delta 8 is derived from the hemp plant, it cannot cause psychosis since its THC levels are lower than 0.3 percent. However, some consumers believe that Delta 8 may cause hallucinations, restlessness, lack of concentration and lack of judgment - all signs of psychosis. JustDelta is fully dedicated to helping people live stress-free lifestyles, feel incredible and perform at their best.
Consuming high-quality Delta 8 products can provide benefits such as relieving pain, improving mood, increasing appetite and relieving anxiety. It is important to note that although Delta 8 is less psychoactive than Delta 9, it still has psychoactive properties that can cause significant toxicity. If you experience these signs after consuming Delta 8, you should stop using it immediately and consult your doctor.
