Delta-8 THC: 5 Critical Facts You Need to Know

Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC) has been making waves in the cannabis market, but the FDA has raised serious concerns about its safety and legality. Here are five crucial points to understand:

1. Lack of FDA Approval Delta-8 THC products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use. They’re often marketed in ways that may put public health at risk, with misleading labeling and unsubstantiated therapeutic claims.
2. Adverse Event Reports The FDA has received over 100 reports of adverse events related to delta-8 THC products, including hallucinations, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. Poison control centers have logged thousands of exposure cases, with a significant portion involving children.
3. Psychoactive Effects Delta-8 THC has psychoactive and intoxicating effects similar to delta-9 THC, the primary component responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use.
4. Potentially Harmful Manufacturing Processes The production of delta-8 THC often involves the use of potentially dangerous chemicals to convert CBD into delta-8 THC. This synthetic process may introduce harmful contaminants into the final product.
5. Risk to Children and Pets Many delta-8 THC products are packaged to appeal to children (e.g., gummies, candies) and are easily accessible. There’s been a sharp increase in accidental exposures among children and pets.

The FDA is actively monitoring the situation and urges consumers to be cautious. If you experience adverse effects from delta-8 THC products, report them to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

As the debate around delta-8 THC continues, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and stay informed about potential risks associated with these unregulated products.