Please note: This article is for informational purposes only. Banner Health does not endorse the use of illegal or controlled substances, such as Delta-8.
If you’re looking for a way to relax, improve sleep and reduce pain, you might be considering Delta-8 THC. It’s an alternative to traditional cannabis products that you can find in many stores and websites. You might find it sold in gummies, vapes or tinctures.
Even though Delta-8 is widely available, it's important to remember that it's not risk-free.
If you're thinking about trying Delta-8 or you already use it, understanding the facts can help you make safe, informed decisions.
What is Delta-8 and why is it so popular?
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a compound that naturally occurs in small amounts in the cannabis plant. It's chemically similar to Delta-9 THC, which is the substance most people think of as THC. But it's less potent.
“Delta-8 probably is about half as potent as Delta 9," said Bryan Kuhn, a pharmacist with Banner - University Medicine. But less potent doesn't mean it's without risks.
In fact, the reason Delta-8 is widely available is because the regulations were put in place referring to Delta-9 THC that didn’t specifically cover other cannabinoids, like Delta-8.
Many people turn to Delta-8 because it's often seen as a "legal high," since it’s not regulated the same way Delta-9 is. And some people use it because they think it may cause fewer side effects, like anxiety or paranoia, compared to Delta-9.
How does Delta-8 work in your body?
Like other cannabinoids, Delta-8 interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system. This system plays a role in regulating your mood, appetite, memory and more. While Delta-8's effects might be less intense than Delta-9, it can still alter your mental state, affect your coordination and impact your ability to focus.
Is Delta-8 safe to use? What we know so far
Research on Delta-8 is still limited. The FDA has not approved Delta-8 for medical use and there's a lack of long-term studies on its effects.
Reports have shown a mix of mild and serious side effects, especially when people use high doses or combine Delta-8 with alcohol or other medications.
Delta-8 is often made by chemically extracting CBD from hemp. This means the safety of the final product depends on how it was processed. Some products might contain unwanted contaminants or high levels of Delta-9 THC.
"It is not uncommon for Delta-8 products sold at stores to contain Delta-9 THC. And they still might have some of the residual solvents that were used for extracting or synthesizing the product," Dr. Kuhn said.
Because Delta-8 is unregulated in many places, the quality and ingredients of products can vary a lot. "Delta 8 isn’t regulated like Delta-9, which means Delta 8 can essentially be sold anywhere," Dr. Kuhn said. In fact, the FDA has issued warnings about misleading labels and unsafe ingredients found in some Delta-8 items.
Studies on Delta-8 products sold commercially often show issues. "The majority of studies found that, more often than not, products never met what are generally considered to be potency and purity standards for any sort of substance you should be taking internally," Dr. Kuhn said.
Tip: If you decide to use Delta-8, it’s best to stick to products from third-party tested sources and avoid anything with synthetic additives. "You really have to be an advocate for yourself, to find out what standards they’re adhering to and whether the product actually contains what the labeling says on the package," Dr. Kuhn said.
If you live in a state where marijuana is legal and you choose to use Delta-8, you may want to buy it in an approved dispensary that requires its products to meet testing standards.
What are the possible side effects of Delta-8 THC?
Just like other THC products, Delta-8 can cause side effects. You might experience:
- Dry mouth and red eyes
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
- Trouble concentrating
- Slow reaction times
Some people have also reported more serious reactions, like:
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Hallucinations or confusion, especially with higher doses
- Fatigue or low motivation
- Loss of coordination
If you ever feel disoriented or your symptoms don’t go away, it's important to stop using the product and talk to a health care provider.
Does Delta-8 interfere with medication?
There’s not a lot of data studying how Delta-8 affects other medications. Since cannabinoids are processed by your liver, Delta-8 could change how quickly or slowly your body metabolizes other prescriptions. It may be risky for people with heart conditions, mental health disorders or liver issues.
Delta-8 might interact with:
- Blood pressure or heart medications
- Sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs
- Antidepressants and seizure medications
You should always talk to your health care provider or pharmacist before using Delta-8, especially if you take medications regularly or have any chronic health conditions.
How can you use Delta-8 safely?
If you choose to use Delta-8, keep these tips in mind:
- Start low and go slow. Begin with a very small dose and wait at least two hours before you decide if you want to take more.
- Don’t mix substances. Avoid using Delta-8 with alcohol or other drugs.
- Avoid driving or operating machines. Delta-8 can slow your reaction time and coordination.
- Store it safely. Always keep all Delta-8 products out of reach of children and pets, especially edibles which can look like candy.
- Know the laws in your area. While most types of Delta-8 are not controlled substances under federal law, it’s not legal in all states.
Talking to your health care provider about Delta-8
It’s important to talk to your health care provider about Delta-8. Your provider can help you:
- Understand how it might affect your health
- Watch for any side effects
- Adjust your other medications if needed
Delta-8 is not recommended for:
- People under age 21
- People in addiction recovery
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- People managing a mental health condition
The bottom line
Delta-8 might seem like a low-risk option, but it still affects your brain and body and products often aren’t tested for safety.
If you're considering using it for issues like pain, anxiety or sleep, it's a good idea to talk to a Banner Health provider about safer and more effective options. Seeking medical guidance and staying informed are key to your well-being.
