Are Delta-8 THC Products Making People Sick?

There Are Different Forms of THC

THC isn’t a one-size-fits-all compound. Several forms of THC occur naturally in cannabis plants, including delta-8 THC (D8), delta-9 THC (D9), and delta-10 THC (D10).

While they share similarities, each has slight chemical differences that influence how they work with the receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system.

D9 THC may sound familiar—that’s because it’s the form that occurs in the largest quantities and is considered a “major cannabinoid.”

By contrast, D8 and D10 are referred to as “minor cannabinoids” because they naturally occur in much smaller amounts.

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.

But here’s the kicker: D8 doesn’t naturally appear in large quantities.

To produce enough for retail products like gummies, vapes, and oils, manufacturers use a chemical process to convert hemp-derived CBD into D8.

Unfortunately, this process often involves harsh chemicals like dichloromethane, battery acid, or even pool cleaning products. Yikes.

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.