Have you heard that delta-8 is a legal way to get THC? Unfortunately, the way it’s made can be potentially dangerous! Learn more about delta-8 THC, why you should stay away from these products, and where you can get safe products instead.
Table of Contents
Features:
- An overview of what delta-8 THC is vs. delta-9 THC
- The potentially dangerous side effects associated with D8
- Where to get safe products instead
There Are Different Forms of THC
Several forms of THC occur naturally within the plant.
With slight chemical differences, there is delta-8 THC (D8), delta-9 THC (D9), delta-10 THC (D10), and more.
These compounds work with the cannabinoid receptors in our endocannabinoid system.
Unfortunately, there’s some major controversy surrounding the delta-8 form of THC.
D9 THC is the form you may be most familiar with. It is considered a major cannabinoid because it naturally occurs in large amounts in a plant.
D8 and D10 are minor cannabinoids because they are only naturally present in very small amounts.
People claim that D8 can provide relief for those with chronic pain, migraine attacks, and other medical conditions.
Retailers love D8 because they believe it is a legal loophole, claiming it is legal at the federal level because it comes from ‘hemp’ plants.
Unfortunately, there have been an alarming number of claims of people reporting adverse reactions after consuming delta-8 flower, delta-8 gummies, and other delta-8 THC products like vape cartridges.
As concern grows over these products, New York State just ordered an immediate cease and desist for any company selling D8 or D10 products.
What is Delta-8?
It is important to start with the fact that naturally occurring D8 THC is not inherently dangerous.
However, the cannabis plant does not naturally produce D8 in large amounts.
To get a large amount of D8 needed to make products to sell, it is chemically created from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).
To convert CBD into D8, manufacturers need to use harsh chemicals, like dichloromethane, which emits highly toxic fumes when exposed to heat.
D8 can also be made with things like battery acid and pool chemicals.
It is the chemical process used to create D8 that makes it potentially unsafe to consume.
Again, it is not the compound itself but the chemicals used to produce D8 and the leftover residual material that makes it dangerous.
Side Effects of Synthetic Delta-8
Delta-8 THC has both psychoactive and intoxicating effects (whether it is derived from hemp extract or not)
The FDA has severally received cases of people who have reported adverse intoxicating effects of delta-8 THC such as difficulty thinking and speaking.
Regular use might also cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS).
CHS usually leads to severe nausea and vomiting that doesn’t respond to typical anti-nausea drugs.
These effects will vary based on how the delta-8 is produced, the product’s strength, and the consumption frequency.
Large doses may cause more severe reactions.
Other negative side effects of consuming contaminated D8 products include:
- Red eyes – Red eyes, including continuously rubbing your eyes and trying to restore some moisture
- Slowed reaction times
- Dry mouth – you will most likely feel parched as long as the Delta-8 molecule is present and active in your mouth.
- Anxiety – although Delta-8 has been said to alleviate paranoia, people who consume much have reported feeling anxious and jittery.
- Memory loss
- Trouble with coordination
- Rapid heart rate
- Headaches – migraine symptoms, cluster headaches
- Digestive distress – in some situations, you may experience diarrhea or other digestive problems
While many companies claim their D8 products are safe, little research has been done on what is considered ‘safe’.
There is no way to distinguish between a ‘safe’ and ‘unsafe’ D8 product. This is why D8 is banned in medical marijuana programs across the United States.
Instead, other cannabis products, like D9, are recommended to treat various ailments effectively.
Lack of Regulation
One of the biggest risks of using D8 products is its lack of regulation.
This lack of regulation increases the chance of dangerous contaminants in the products sold.
Keep in mind that D8 hasn’t been evaluated by the US FDA for safety and has been banned by some states, including New York.
In October of 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both put out health warnings about D8 THC.
Delta-9 is Safer Than Delta-8
Cannabis use is supposed to be health-promoting, but using chemically derived D8 is not.
Delta-9 products provide safer effects because they are naturally occurring, extracted through safe processes, and are already highly regulated.
This makes delta-9 products a safer choice than delta-8 products.
In my shop, I have D9 THC gummies available, providing the euphoric effects you may be looking for.
This is a better option if you want a full spectrum option that will leave you feeling amazing without the possibility of dangerous contaminants.
Have You Been Harmed by D8?
Many people have come to me and told me the D8 product they tried has made them sick. Has this happened to you? Let me know in the comments below.
Took Delta 8 to calm my nerves – I got so ill & could not stop being nauseous. Nothing helped. It must have damaged my gut because I lost 25lbs in 2 mos after taking it – I would feel so sick trying to eat & also stomach pain that’s hard to describe in stomach & upper rt side (gallbladder?) Doctors were clueless & it took 2 mos to get over the change Delta 8 caused in my system – avoid at all costs (I even ordered from large legitimate company) It just does something negative to most people who have tried it. Never ever again. You’ve been warned – smoking is best & safest way to enjoy cannibid imo.
Hi Babz. I am so so sorry you had such a horrible experience. Thank you for taking the time to share with us. Keep spreading awareness!
I had an accidental exposure to Delta 8. A chocolate bar was left in my refrigerator and I didn’t know it had the product in it. I am a 57 year old female that takes medication for AFib. Because the bar did not have an outside wrapper, I do not know how much I actually consumed, but it was a dreadful experience. I thought that I was going to die. I felt like I couldn’t breathe and like I was going to throw up. I could stand on my own. I was extremely paranoid and light and noise sensitive. I could not function. I wanted to go to the hospital. When we found out what it was and who had left it there my husband said that I should just lay down and it would wear off and I would be ok. It took 6 hours before I began to come around. It was absolutely awful. I still was not clear of mind the whole next day. This is very scary to me. I cannot imagine what might have happened if a child had gotten a hold of this. I cannot believe they sell and market this stuff legally.
Since December 2022 I have not been able to eat sleep or have bowel movements
My hair and nails have broken.
I am practically bed-ridden
Hi Suzanne. We are so sorry to hear that you’ve been experiencing these issues. It must be incredibly challenging for you, and I can only imagine the impact it’s having on your daily life. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional about your symptoms as they are best equipped to provide personalized advice on your symptoms.
In addition, I encourage you to explore resources and support groups for people experiencing similar health issues. Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can offer valuable insights and understanding. Wishing you all the best on your journey to recovery!
I almost never comment on anything posted but I have to weigh in too. I was born a redhead and there’s a theory that there’s a mutant gene in redheads that give them a very high tolerance and I’m a prime example. My hospital chart says “Hard to sedate” ? I have alcoholism in my family so I try not to go overboard there and read about the delta products a few weeks ago decided to try it. Got a delta 8 gummies that absolutely worked but my tolerance kicked in quickly and they didn’t work as well. I tried different types over the next few weeks minor high, that’s it. So I bought an indica delta 8 and D9 indica vape. Started using it got a small headache no big deal, then gradually I got nauseous couldn’t eat much, have vomited a couple times but now it just water headache is a bit worse eyes hurt. I couldn’t for the life of me figure out what’s wrong, then I saw this (after querying symptoms) spot on, I’ve used the vape probably no more than 20 drags over the past 4 days. It has to be it. I’m think I’ll take it back and try to get a refund I’m not using it again.
Hi Rose. I’m so sorry to hear about your distressing experience. It’s really important that all products containing substances like Delta-8 THC are clearly labeled and stored safely out of reach of those who shouldn’t consume them, especially children. Accidental ingestion can indeed be very frightening, as you’ve unfortunately experienced.
Your experience underscores the importance of responsible usage and storage of cannabis products. I hope you’re feeling better now, and I appreciate you sharing your experience as a reminder for all of us to exercise caution and responsibility with these products.
Hi Beth. I’m sorry to hear about the discomfort you’ve been experiencing. It’s important to listen to your body and stop using any product that causes adverse effects.
Your decision to stop using the vape and seek a refund sounds like a wise one. Your health and well-being are the most important things, and I appreciate you sharing your experience.
For anyone wondering what helps with CHS, Nausea, pain in upper stomach, excessive sweats and throwing up. Hot water helps ease the symptoms. In some cases stops them almost immediately. If you find that hot water has helped it is most likely CHS and the only real fix is to stop using any cannabis product. I know it’s a hard thing to accept but it is true I am a living example. I went through almost 4 years of misery before finding a testimony of someone with the same symptoms from new Zealand. This was in 2010 CHS wasn’t really talked about. I discovered it laying in the hospital bed and brought it up to the doctor and he even at the time new nothing of it really. So upon discharge after the symptoms had stopped I completely stopped any form of thc. Never got sick like that again ,only years later when I attempted to use thc casually and got sick and stopped. D8 has cause the same reaction for me just not as fast and also now I think in moderation it may not cause a CHS flair up . Since using d8 I have got sick a few times over the past year but am trying to find a moderation balance. I know if using only at night for bed I experienced no ill effects in a two year period. Only upon upping the intake to a sporatic through the day and a bit more did I start to feel the symptoms of CHS. Sorry for the long post and I’m not sure if it all will make sense when read but if you are going through it it most likely will. Also Hot shower or bath helps!
Hi Dee. You’re absolutely right about the symptomatic relief that hot water can provide to temporarily alleviate the nausea and other symptoms associated with CHS, but this is just a temporary measure.
Thank you for sharing your personal experience with Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). It’s brave of you to discuss your journey, and your insights can be incredibly helpful to others going through similar situations.