THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid made by treating hemp-derived delta-8 THC with acetic anhydride, and early reports describe it as more potent than the THC that occurs naturally in cannabis.
CBD has been popular for years, and people are now turning to cannabinoids that produce psychoactive effects. THC-O is the largest of those.
THC-O carries a high potential for misuse, the research base on it is thin, and it produces serious side effects. Knowing what to do when someone runs into trouble with THC-O starts with knowing what the substance is.
What Is THC-O?
THC-O, short for THC-O acetate, is synthesized outside the plant: delta-8 THC is extracted from hemp, then mixed with acetic anhydride to produce it. THC stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is derived from hemp in the way CBD is, and THC-O is not.
Acetic anhydride is a colorless liquid used in making plastics, fibers, pharmaceuticals and explosives. The THC-O production process runs on chemicals, so it requires specific equipment.
Early reports describe THC-O as stronger than THC, which produces more potent effects and draws users to it. The research base on THC-O remains thin, and more powerful effects bring a greater frequency of side effects.
Is THC-O Legal?
THC-O occupies an unresolved position in federal law: the 2018 Farm Bill legalized cannabis products at 0.3 percent THC or less, and THC-O has not been listed under any schedule. Public perceptions of marijuana and hemp are changing, which puts the legality of THC-O in question.
The 2018 Farm Bill separated hemp and marijuana carrying low concentrations of THC from other substances. Under that bill, cannabis products at 0.3 percent THC or less are possessed, transported and sold legally.
A drug meets the Schedule I definition where it carries a high potential for abuse and lacks a clear medical purpose. THC-O meets both parts of that definition and has yet to be listed under it. The concentration of THC under the Farm Bill governs the answer, and the question remains open.
The legal status of THC-O does not change its side effects.
What Are the Effects of THC-O?
THC-O effects begin around 30 minutes after use and include hallucinations, anxiety, dizziness, paranoia, sedation, nausea and seizures. THC-O is a prodrug, which means it produces no noticeable effect until the body transforms it. The exact effects of THC-O vary from person to person.
There are 7 common effects of THC-O:
- vivid hallucinations
- increased anxiety, particularly in people with an underlying mental health condition
- severe dizziness, with falls or loss of consciousness
- paranoia
- deep relaxation and tiredness
- nausea and vomiting
- seizures
THC-O effects vary this widely because the FDA sets no regulatory standard for it. Packaging sells THC-O as a natural or hemp-derived cannabinoid, in the way HHC is sold, and the synthetic process required to produce THC-O contradicts that claim.
Like delta-9 THC, THC-O reaches consumers in vape cartridges and in edibles such as gummies.
A buyer cannot know what a THC-O product contains, which is the central danger. That uncertainty raises the chance of addiction compared with other hemp products in the cannabis industry.
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What Are the Signs of a THC-O Use Disorder?
Acute THC-O intoxication shows as dry mouth, impaired balance, bloodshot eyes, slowed reflexes and difficulty holding a conversation.
There are 5 acute signs of THC-O intoxication:
- dry mouth
- problems with balance and coordination
- bloodshot eyes
- slowed reflexes
- difficulty carrying on a conversation
Frequent THC-O use produces long-term effects as well.
There are 4 signs of a THC-O use disorder:
- Relationships: the person prioritizes THC-O over relationships with family members and friends.
- Negative outcomes: the person continues to use THC-O after experiencing significant negative consequences.
- Guilt: the person feels guilty about the use and goes to extreme lengths to hide how much THC-O they are using.
- Financial and legal trouble: the person continues to use THC-O after developing financial and legal difficulties.
THC-O is new, and people have already developed substance use disorders related to it. Contact medical professionals where you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms related to THC-O.
Where Can You Get Help for a THC-O Use Disorder?
Riverside Recovery of Tampa treats THC-O use disorder with a treatment plan customized to the person. Supporting someone who has developed a THC-O use disorder is difficult, and it is not a task to take on alone.
Riverside Recovery of Tampa provides access to treatment professionals experienced across a wide range of substance use disorders. We work with you to customize your treatment plan, giving you the tools to get sober and stay sober.
THC-O produces short-term and long-term side effects, and treatment addresses both. Contact us today to speak to one of our treatment professionals.