Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as delta-8 THC, is a psychoactive substance derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. Both marijuana and hemp are varieties of this plant. While delta-8 THC is one of the numerous cannabinoids naturally produced by cannabis, it is found in very small quantities. Consequently, to obtain significant amounts of delta-8 THC, it is typically synthesized from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).
It’s crucial for consumers to understand that delta-8 THC products have not undergone evaluation or approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safe use in any context. These products are often marketed in ways that could endanger public health, and it is particularly important to keep them away from children and pets.
Here are five essential facts about delta-8 THC to help you protect yourself and your loved ones from products that may pose serious health risks:
1. Lack of FDA Evaluation and Potential Public Health Risks
The FDA is increasingly concerned about delta-8 THC products available online and in retail stores. It is vital to reiterate that these products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use under any circumstances. Several factors contribute to these concerns, including inconsistencies in product formulations, unclear labeling, variations in other cannabinoid and terpene content, and fluctuating concentrations of delta-8 THC. Adding to the problem, some products are deceptively labeled as simply “hemp products,” which can mislead consumers into believing they are non-psychoactive due to the association of “hemp” with non-intoxicating substances.
Furthermore, the FDA is alarmed by the increasing prevalence of delta-8 THC products marketed for therapeutic or medical purposes without FDA approval. Selling unapproved products with unsubstantiated health claims is a violation of federal law and puts consumers at risk. These products lack proof of safety and effectiveness. This misleading marketing of unproven treatments is a significant public health concern because individuals might use them instead of approved, effective therapies for serious, even life-threatening conditions.
2. Reported Adverse Events and Health Issues
The FDA has received numerous reports of adverse events related to delta-8 THC consumption. Between December 1, 2020, and February 28, 2022, there were 104 reported cases of adverse events in individuals who used delta-8 THC products. Among these reports:
- 77% involved adults, 8% involved children under 18, and 15% did not specify age.
- 55% required medical intervention, such as emergency medical services or hospital admission.
- 66% of adverse events occurred after ingesting delta-8 THC infused food products like brownies and gummies.
- Reported adverse events included hallucinations, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
National poison control centers also documented 2,362 exposure cases involving delta-8 THC products from January 1, 2021 (when a specific delta-8 THC product code was introduced into their database), to February 28, 2022. Of these cases:
- 58% involved adults, 41% involved pediatric patients, and 1% did not report age.
- 40% were due to unintentional exposure to delta-8 THC, with 82% of these unintentional exposures affecting children.
- 70% required evaluation at a healthcare facility, and 8% of those required admission to a critical care unit. Pediatric patients made up 45% of those needing healthcare facility evaluation.
- Tragically, one pediatric case resulted in death.
3. Psychoactive and Intoxicating Properties
Delta-8 THC is indeed psychoactive and intoxicating, producing effects similar to delta-9 THC, the primary component in cannabis responsible for the “high.” The FDA is aware of media reports highlighting the intoxicating effects of delta-8 THC products. A significant concern is that delta-8 THC products likely expose consumers to much higher concentrations of this substance than naturally occur in hemp cannabis extracts. Therefore, the historical safety profile of traditional cannabis use cannot be applied to determine the safety of these concentrated delta-8 THC products for human consumption.
4. Potential Harmful Chemicals in Production
The natural concentration of delta-8 THC in hemp is minimal. To achieve marketable concentrations, manufacturers must chemically convert other cannabinoids in hemp, such as CBD, into delta-8 THC through synthetic processes. This conversion process raises several concerns:
- Some manufacturers might use potentially hazardous household chemicals to synthesize delta-8 THC. Additional chemicals may be used to alter the color of the final product. The resulting delta-8 THC product can contain harmful byproducts (contaminants) from these chemical processes. Furthermore, the potential presence of other contaminants depends on the raw materials used. These chemicals, including those used in synthesis and the resulting byproducts, can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
- Delta-8 THC product manufacturing might occur in uncontrolled and unsanitary environments, increasing the risk of unsafe contaminants and other potentially harmful substances in the final product.
5. Dangers to Children and Pets
Manufacturers often package and label delta-8 THC products in a way that is appealing to children, mimicking familiar treats like gummies, chocolates, cookies, and candies. These products are readily available online and in various retail outlets, including convenience stores and gas stations, where age restrictions might not be strictly enforced. As previously mentioned, poison control centers have reported numerous cases involving children exposed to delta-8 THC products. Animal poison control centers have also noted a significant increase in accidental pet exposure to these substances. It is imperative to keep delta-8 THC products completely out of reach of children and pets.
Why is the FDA Raising Public Awareness About Delta-8 THC?
Several converging factors have prompted the FDA to inform the public about the risks of delta-8 THC. These include:
- A rise in adverse event reports submitted to the FDA and poison control centers nationwide.
- Marketing strategies, particularly online marketing, that are attractive to children.
- Concerns about contamination arising from the manufacturing methods sometimes used to produce delta-8 THC products for the market.
The FDA is actively collaborating with federal and state partners to address concerns related to these products. They are continuously monitoring the market for product complaints, adverse events, and other emerging cannabis-derived products that could pose potential risks. The FDA will continue to warn consumers about public health and safety issues and will take regulatory action when necessary against FDA-regulated products that violate the law.
How to Report Issues
If you believe you are experiencing a serious side effect that poses an immediate health danger, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report complaints, accidental exposures, and adverse events through the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
FDA Issues Warning Letters: FDA, FTC Continue Joint Effort to Protect Consumers Against Companies Illegally Selling Copycat Delta-8 THC Food Products
Warning Letters: Warning Letters and Test Results for Cannabidiol-Related Products
For more information about Delta-8 THC: CDC HEALTH ALERT NETWORK (HAN)
Data from the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) and the National Poison Data System (NPDS) are for informational purposes and may not represent the complete scope of exposures.
