Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) is a cannabinoid that has surged in popularity as a purportedly milder, legal alternative to Delta-9 THC (traditional marijuana). [1] However, Delta-8 is still psychoactive and can cause side effects, both immediately and even the next day.
Consumers might assume it’s safer than regular cannabis, but reports of adverse reactions have emerged, and some users describe a “weed hangover” after using Delta-8. [1]
- Delta-8 THC can cause acute side effects similar to regular cannabis (like anxiety and dizziness), even though its high is often described as milder than Delta-9’s.
- Some consumers experience “next-day” effects (a Delta-8 hangover), feeling groggy, fatigued, or headachy the day after use, although scientific evidence for these lingering effects is limited.
- Frequent or high-dose use carries risks. People can develop dependence (with withdrawal symptoms), some heavy users have had cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (severe vomiting), and there are rare reports of psychosis or other mental health issues in Delta-8 users.
Immediate side effects of Delta-8 THC
Delta-8 THC produces psychoactive effects similar to Delta-9 THC, though typically milder. Common side effects include: [2]
- Dry mouth
- Red eyes
- Drowsiness
- Impaired coordination and short-term memory
Delta-8 can also cause anxiety or paranoia, especially at high doses; consumer reports list anxiety among the most frequent Delta-8 issues. [2] Other acute reactions include: [3]
- Elevated heart rate
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Nausea
Taking too much (for example, a very high-potency edible) increases the risk of intense effects. Some individuals have experienced vomiting or even hallucinations from overuse. [3] Generally, these immediate effects wear off as the Delta-8 high subsides, but they can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous (e.g., making one unsafe to drive).
Next-day side effects
Many Delta-8 users report feeling a bit “off” the next day, though not everyone experiences this. The most common next-day symptom is grogginess or fatigue, essentially a mild “weed hangover.”
People might wake up feeling sluggish, with a foggy mind or a slight headache. These effects are usually much milder than an alcohol hangover and tend to pass after rehydrating and eating. Not all research finds next-day impairment. Most controlled studies show no meaningful drop in cognitive performance the morning after THC use. [4]
This suggests any Delta-8 hangover is generally subtle and depends on dose and personal sensitivity.
Why do next-day side effects occur?
A Delta-8 hangover likely happens for similar reasons as other hangovers – mainly overconsumption and lack of rest. Taking a large dose (especially late at night) can leave residual THC and metabolites in your system by morning, leading to lingering effects. [5]
Additionally, using Delta-8 can cause dehydration and disrupt your sleep patterns, making you feel tired or headachy if you don’t sleep well. [5] In most cases, next-day symptoms occur when Delta-8 intake exceeds the body’s ability to metabolize it before sleep.
Potential risks of frequent or high-dose use
High-frequency or high-dose use of Delta-8 amplifies certain health risks.
- Dependence and withdrawal: One concern is dependence – with heavy use, you can develop tolerance and may experience withdrawal symptoms (irritability, insomnia, etc.) upon stopping. Some consumers have reported difficulty quitting due to withdrawals. [2]
- Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS): Prolonged excessive use may also lead to CHS, a rare condition of recurring vomiting seen in long-term cannabis users (a case of CHS has been noted in a Delta-8 user). [6]
- Mental health effects: Additionally, very large doses can trigger severe mental health reactions. There are rare reports of psychosis in Delta-8 users who overindulged. [7]
While uncommon, these outcomes show that Delta-8 is not risk-free. Those with underlying mental health issues or a history of substance abuse should be especially cautious with Delta-8.
Managing and minimizing side effects
Here are some practical tips to reduce side effects:
- Use moderate doses: Start with a low dose and wait to feel its effects before taking more. Overdoing it is the leading cause of unpleasant reactions, so find the minimum amount that gives you the desired effect.
- Stay hydrated and rest: Drink water during and after using Delta-8 to counteract dry mouth and dehydration. Eat a light snack (to ease nausea) and get a full night’s sleep. This can significantly reduce next-day grogginess. [5]
- Mind your setting: Use Delta-8 in a safe, comfortable environment and avoid mixing it with other substances. [5] Staying calm can help if you experience anxiety or dizziness. If a severe reaction occurs (e.g., chest pain or hallucinations), seek medical attention.
Regulatory and safety concerns
Delta-8 products exist in a legal gray area. They are often marketed as “hemp” or legal cannabis alternatives, but the FDA has not evaluated them for safety. [3] Quality control is lacking; analyses have found Delta-8 products with unexpected cannabinoids or chemical residues from the manufacturing process. [3]
Packaging is another concern. Many Delta-8 edibles look like candy; without strict oversight or age limits, children have accidentally ingested them. Poison control centers have handled many Delta-8 exposure cases, including at least one fatal incident involving a child. [3]
Several states have banned Delta-8 despite its federal legality. Until regulations improve, consumers should be cautious—only buy from reputable sources that provide lab testing, and keep these products out of the reach of kids.
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