Delta-8 THC is a relative newcomer to the cannabis scene. This close cousin of delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, is touted as producing a milder high with less anxiety and paranoia. But does delta-8 really have fewer mental health risks compared to conventional weed? Here’s a quick look at what research reveals so far.
What is delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta-8 THC, is one of over 100 cannabinoids produced naturally by the cannabis plant. Like delta-9 THC, it binds to CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, producing psychoactive effects. But delta-8 and delta-9 THC have slightly different chemical structures that cause some key differences in their effects.
Delta-8 occurs only in miniscule amounts in cannabis. Concentrated delta-8 products are made by chemically altering CBD extracted from hemp. This process converts CBD into delta-8 THC through isomerization. Delta-8 can also be synthesized directly from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).
Does delta-8 get you high?
Yes, delta-8 THC is intoxicating, although generally less so than delta-9 THC. Users report delta-8 as providing a mild, clear-headed high with less anxiety and increased energy and focus compared to conventional cannabis.
The differences in perceived effects between delta-8 and delta-9 THC come down to the slightly varied chemical structures. The double bond placement on delta-8’s molecular chain makes it less potent in activating CB1 receptors involved in the psychoactive high.
Delta-8 is estimated to be about 50-75% as potent as delta-9 THC, although this can vary considerably depending on individual brain chemistry and tolerance. It may take up to 2 hours to feel peak delta-8 effects due to slower metabolization.
Is delta-8 THC legal?
Delta-8 sits in a legal gray area. While delta-9 THC remains federally illegal, certain cannabinoids derived from legal hemp are permitted under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, some states have banned delta-8 the same as traditional THC.
The DEA argues all synthetically altered THC isomers are Schedule 1 illegal drugs. But this view has not been upheld in court rulings so far. The FDA also says delta-8 has not been evaluated for safety, citing reports of adverse effects from delta-8 products.
For now, delta-8 remains federally legal but banned in some states. Consumers should check local laws before purchasing delta-8 products.
Does delta-8 THC have mental health risks?
Delta-8’s psychoactive effects mean it carries some similar mental health risks as marijuana. Research specifically on delta-8 is still very limited, but studies on cannabis in general can provide insight into its potential psychological impacts.
Anxiety & paranoia
High doses of THC are known to sometimes cause or worsen anxiety and paranoid thoughts. Delta-8 may have a lower likelihood of anxiety side effects due its weaker activiation of CB1 receptors.
However, individual brain chemistry varies. Those prone to anxiety may still experience it with delta-8, especially in high doses. Starting low and going slow is advisable to assess tolerance.
Psychosis
THC has been linked to an increased risk of psychotic disorders in those with a predisposition. While quite rare, evidence suggests cannabis can trigger temporary psychosis or exacerbate schizophrenia symptoms in vulnerable individuals.
Delta-8’s effects on psychosis risk are unknown. Its reduced potency could potentially lower, but not eliminate, the chances of THC-induced psychosis. Those with a personal or family history of psychosis should avoid delta-8 and THC.
Depression
Research on cannabis and depression has shown mixed results. While some associate marijuana with increased depressive symptoms, others report mood-lifting effects.
It’s possible delta-8 may uplift mood and provide temporary relief from depression due its euphoric qualities. However, delta-8, like delta-9 THC, can cause dependency with chronic heavy use. This may negatively impact depression over the long-term.
Cognitive impairment
Delta-8, as an intoxicating cannabinoid, can cause transient cognitive impairment while under its effects. Short-term memory, concentration, reaction times, and motor coordination may be slowed for a few hours.
Frequent or heavy delta-8 use may also have lasting effects on brain function. More research is still needed, but studies link prolonged cannabis use with declines in memory, focus, decision making, and learning abilities.
Addiction & substance abuse
Despite common perceptions of cannabis as non-addictive, delta-8 and delta-9 THC have a risk of dependence. With consistent use over time, users can develop both psychological and physical reliance on delta-8’s effects.
Signs of delta-8 addiction include increased tolerance, difficulty cutting back, withdrawal when stopping, and continuing use despite negative impacts. Those with addictive tendencies may be more vulnerable to delta-8 dependence.
Are delta-8 effects dose-dependent?
Yes, delta-8’s potential mental health impacts and side effects are strongly determined by dosage. Lower doses are less likely to cause anxiety, impairment, or other issues compared to higher amounts.
This dose-response relationship means starting with small doses is critical. 5-10mg is a typical starting delta-8 dose. Waiting at least 2 hours to fully feel effects before redosing can prevent overconsumption.
Using minimally required doses, avoiding mixing with other drugs, and not driving or operating machinery are other ways to reduce delta-8’s risks.
Does tolerance influence delta-8 mental effects?
Yes, tolerance greatly changes the mental and physical effects of delta-8 for users over time. As with delta-9 THC, repeated exposure causes desensitization of CB1 receptors.
This leads to needing higher doses to achieve the same effects. But higher tolerance also often reduces undesirable side effects. Anxiety, impairment, and psychosis risks decrease with greater tolerance in most regular cannabis users.
First-time or occasional delta-8 users face the highest mental health risks. Heavy, chronic users commonly report fewer negative psychological effects from delta-8 due to high tolerance.
Delta-8 mental health risks compared to delta-9 THC
| Risk | Delta-8 THC | Delta-9 THC |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety & Paranoia | Lower risk | Higher risk |
| Psychosis | Uncertain, likely lower risk | Higher risk in predisposed |
| Depression | Uncertain effects | Mixed effects |
| Cognitive Impairment | Lower risk | Higher risk |
| Addiction | Lower but still significant risk | Higher risk |
This table summarizes the current understanding of how delta-8 THC compares to conventional delta-9 THC in potential mental health impacts. Delta-8 appears to carry a lower risk for most side effects due to its less potent activation of CB1 receptors.
However, research specifically analyzing delta-8 is still very limited. Its risks are not zero and can also vary dramatically based on individual factors like dosing, tolerance, biology, and pre-existing mental health conditions.
Populations at highest mental health risk from delta-8
While delta-8 may have fewer adverse psychological effects compared to regular cannabis, some populations face increased mental health risks from delta-8 use.
Those with anxiety, psychotic disorders
People diagnosed with or prone to anxiety, paranoia, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders are at increased risk of symptom exacerbation from any amount of delta-8 THC.
Adolescents & young adults
THC use during adolescence and young adulthood is linked to greater chances of dependence and long-term cognitive effects. The developing brain in these age groups is more vulnerable to delta-8’s risks.
First-time & occasional users
Those without an existing tolerance to THC are more likely to experience anxiety, psychosis, and other adverse effects from delta-8. Inexperienced users should be especially cautious with dosing.
Individuals with mood disorders
Pre-existing conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and related mood disorders can interact with delta-8 in unpredictable ways. It may worsen symptoms long-term despite short-term mood lifts.
People taking medications
Mixing delta-8 with antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other psychiatric medications may cause negative interactions. Anyone on prescription meds should consult their doctor before trying delta-8.
Tips for minimizing delta-8’s mental health risks
When used responsibly, delta-8 may have lower risks compared to traditional cannabis. Here are some tips for consumers to minimize adverse mental effects from delta-8 THC:
- Start with very low doses (5mg or less) to gauge effects.
- Increase dosing slowly over time to build tolerance gradually.
- Avoid delta-8 if you have a personal or family history of psychosis.
- Don’t mix delta-8 with medications or other drugs.
- Buy from reputable brands that provide third-party test reports.
- Consider strains with CBD to counteract unwanted THC effects.
- Use sparingly and avoid daily heavy use to reduce mental dependence.
- Don’t drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions while intoxicated.
Key takeaways on delta-8 & mental health
- Delta-8 THC produces a milder high compared to delta-9 THC with purportedly lower risks of anxiety and paranoia.
- Research specifically on delta-8’s psychological impacts is still very limited.
- Delta-8 does carry risks of anxiety, psychosis, cognitive impairment, and dependence, but likely less than conventional cannabis.
- Effects are strongly dose-dependent – higher doses increase mental health risks.
- Some populations, like adolescents and those prone to psychosis, face higher risks from any delta-8 use.
- Following safe dosing and buying from reputable brands can help minimize potential harms.
Conclusion
Delta-8 THC comes with less intense psychoactive effects versus delta-9 THC and shows promise for reduced risks of anxiety, paranoia, and other mental health side effects. But its hazards are not non-existent and can vary substantially based on dose, tolerance, age, pre-existing conditions, and other individual factors.
Due to the limitations of current research, delta-8’s effects on mental health are not fully predictable or understood. Users should exercise appropriate caution with dosing and avoid combining delta-8 with medications or other substances. While delta-8 shows potential mental health benefits for some consumers, more studies are still needed to better determine its psychological impacts.