Delta-8 THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol “delta-8”, is a psychoactive compound legally extracted from the cannabis plant. It is an isomer, or chemical analogue, of THC, with the difference being in the position of a double bond in the carbon ring, which causes delta-8 thc to have a lower affinity for the CB1 receptor of the endocannabinoid system in our brain. Both Delta-8 and Delta-9 are forms of THC, but when people refer to THC, they're usually referring to Delta-9, which is found in high concentrations in marijuana. Both produce a sense of euphoria and confusion, but the Delta-8 causes a milder high.
One of the main differences between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC is the effects they produce. Delta-9 is more potent and produces a stronger high than Delta-8.Since hemp-derived CBD is legal in most states, the CBD derivative delta-8 THC is also considered legal. The Federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has indirectly classified delta-8 THC as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal federally. However, some state laws strictly prohibit the sale of products containing delta-8 and delta-9 THC.
The choice between Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC ultimately depends on your personal needs and desires. When teens abuse the delta-8 THC for its psychoactive effects, they are not learning healthy coping skills to control underlying problems. If you determine that your child is abusing delta-8 products with THC, you may consider undergoing inpatient or outpatient treatment.Since delta-8 is relatively new to the market, it can be difficult to find products that are what they claim to be and that actually contain delta-8.Some concerns include variability in product formulations and labeling, other cannabinoid and terpene contents, and varying delta-8 concentrations of THC. Hemp Roundtable, an industry group, is not calling for a strict ban on delta-8 products, but has taken a firm stance against intoxicating forms of delta-8, which exceed the approved limit of 0.3.The side effects of the by-products in vaping cartridges can be harmful, even if they don't contain delta-8 THC.
The FDA is also concerned that products with THC delta-8 are likely to expose consumers to much higher levels of the substance than those found naturally in raw hemp and cannabis extracts.
