Tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate (THC-O) is a synthetic cannabinoid that is derived from cannabidiol (CBD), which comes from hemp. It has gained recent attention on the internet due to claims that this cannabinoid exhibits psychedelic effects similar to those of LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. [1] There are also claims that THC-O is stronger than THC and exhibits more potent psychoactive effects than the more commonly seen variant of delta 9 THC. [1]
Due to these potential unique characteristics of this cannabinoid, research into its specific effects has increased over the last few years.
Below, we will explore the effects, benefits, and potential risks of THC-O and clarify what the research says about this unique cannabinoid.
- THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid derived from hemp that is reported to be more potent than delta-9-THC.
- Research suggests that THC-O may not have true psychedelic effects despite online claims.
- The legal status of THC-O remains uncertain, with potential health risks linked to vaping and inhalation.
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What is THC-O?
Tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate, commonly known as THC-O or THC-O acetate, is a synthetic derivative of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis.
THC-O is produced by acetylating THC, which is a chemical process that involves adding an acetyl group to the THC molecule, resulting in a compound that is purported to be more potent than THC. Longer acetyl chains have been demonstrated to exhibit stronger psychoactive properties, and research assumes this is due to the increased ability to bind to the CB1 (cannabinoid 1) receptor in the brain. [1]
According to research, this modification is believed to enhance the compound's lipophilicity (or ability to dissolve in liquids), potentially facilitating its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier more efficiently. [1]
Where does THC-O come from?
THC-O is not a naturally occurring cannabinoid and is produced through a chemical synthesis process that starts with cannabidiol (CBD) extracted from hemp.
The CBD is first converted into delta-8-THC, which is then acetylated to form THC-O. This process requires specialized equipment and expertise, as it involves the use of hazardous chemicals and reactions.
Due to the complexity and risks associated with its production, THC-O is typically manufactured in controlled laboratory settings rather than through natural extraction methods.
THC-O legal status
The legal status of THC-O in the United States is complex and evolving. The 2018 Federal Agriculture Improvement Act, commonly known as the Farm Bill, legalized hemp and its derivatives, provided they contain less than 0.3% delta-9-THC. However, the bill did not specifically address synthetic cannabinoids like THC-O, leading to a legal gray area.
Some producers argue that because THC-O is derived from federally legal hemp, it is legal under the Farm Bill. However, others believe that the synthetic nature of THC-O places it under the purview of the Federal Analogue Act, which could classify it as an analog of a Schedule I substance, making it illegal.
Additionally, several states have enacted their own regulations banning or restricting the sale and possession of THC-O and other synthetic cannabinoids.
Given the rapidly changing legal landscape, individuals interested in THC-O should consult local laws and regulations to ensure compliance.
How is THC-O used?
THC-O is available in various forms, including vape cartridges, tinctures, edibles, and distillates. The most common methods of consumption are vaping and dabbing, which involve inhaling vaporized THC-O concentrate.
According to a study published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 74.9% of participants reported vaping THC-O, while 24.3% reported dabbing it. The study also noted that dabbing typically involves higher temperatures than vaping, which may influence the compound's effects and potential risks. [1]
One major health concern related to vaping and dabbing THC-O is the potential risk of EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury). EVALI is a severe lung condition that has been linked to the inhalation of certain additives and harmful byproducts, such as ketene, which can form when THC-O is heated at high temperatures.[2]
Research has shown that the production of ketene is particularly concerning because it is a toxic gas that can cause lung irritation, respiratory distress, and even death in some cases. [2] Given this risk, users should be cautious when inhaling THC-O, especially through dabbing, as the high temperatures involved can exacerbate the dangers associated with ketene exposure.
THC-O effects
According to research, users of THC-O have reported a range of effects, including euphoria, psychedelic/spiritual experience, psychedelic hallucinations, pain relief, altered sensory perception, and sedation or calmness. [1] Some reports suggest that THC-O's effects are more intense and longer-lasting than those of delta-9-THC. [1] However, scientific research on the pharmacological properties and effects of THC-O is limited.
A study performed at the University at Buffalo emphasized the need for more research to understand THC-O's effects, as current knowledge is primarily based on user reports rather than clinical studies. Their study examined the psychedelic effects of THC-O, which we’ll dive into more detail below.
Does THC-O have psychedelic effects?
There have been claims that THC-O possesses psychedelic properties, leading to experiences similar to those induced by substances like psilocybin and LSD. These rumors sparked scientific investigation to explore these claims in more detail, as a cannabinoid with psychedelic properties may have potential implications in the treatment of certain conditions. However, recent research suggests that these claims may be exaggerated.
The study by Krueger et. al. 2023 was sparked by social media discussions claiming that THC-O produces psychedelic effects similar to LSD or psilocybin. [3] The researchers used the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ) to assess the subjective effects of THC-O among participants in their study.
The findings showed that 79% responded that using THC-Oac is “not at all” or “a little” of a psychedelic experience, and individuals who had previously used classic psychedelics like LSD or psilocybin scored significantly lower score on the MEQ with THC-O. [3]
The study concluded that while THC-O may induce strong psychoactive effects, it does not produce the profound alterations in consciousness associated with classical psychedelics. [3] Therefore, while THC-O may alter perception and cognition, it is not considered a classic psychedelic compound.
How strong is THC-O?
THC-O is often reported to be more potent than delta-9-THC, with some estimates suggesting it is approximately two to three times stronger. A study published in the Journal of Analytical Toxicology noted that THC-O's increased potency may be due to its enhanced ability to cross the blood-brain barrier following acetylation. [4] However, scientific research remains limited, and further studies are needed to confirm these potency claims definitively.
The increased potency is attributed to the acetylation process, which may enhance the compound's ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. [1] However, due to the limited scientific research on THC-O, precise data on its potency relative to other cannabinoids are not well-established.
Users should exercise caution, especially if they are inexperienced or have a low tolerance to THC, as the heightened potency increases the risk of adverse effects.
THC-O vs. Other cannabinoids
With over 150 cannabinoids currently identified, it is important to understand the distinct similarities and differences of THC-O to other cannabinoids.
THC-O vs THCP
Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) is another potent cannabinoid that has garnered attention for its high affinity to CB1 receptors in the brain. [5] While both THC-O and THCP are considered more potent than delta-9-THC, their origins differ.
THC-O is a synthetic derivative, whereas THCP is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant.
The pharmacological profiles of these compounds are not fully understood, and more research is needed to compare their effects, safety, and potential therapeutic applications.
THC-O vs THCA
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw cannabis. When heated, THCA decarboxylates into THC, producing psychoactive effects. [6]
In contrast, THC-O is a synthetic compound that does not occur naturally in the cannabis plant and is psychoactive without the need for decarboxylation.
The processes of activation and the effects differ significantly between THCA and THC-O, with the latter being more potent and having a distinct onset and duration of effects.
THC-O vs THCV
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid known for its unique effects, which can include appetite suppression and potential metabolic benefits. [7] Unlike THC-O, which is primarily psychoactive, THCV can have both stimulating and suppressing effects, depending on the dosage.
THC-O risks
While THC-O is marketed as a potent alternative to THC, its risks remain largely unknown due to limited research.
Potential concerns include its synthetic nature, the presence of harmful byproducts from its production, and, according to one study, the possibility of adverse reactions such as coughing, anxiety, pain, bad trip/unpleasant experience, bad taste, poor sleep quality, and paranoia. [1]
Additionally, as with other high-potency cannabinoids, excessive use may lead to increased tolerance and dependence.
A significant health risk associated with THC-O is the potential for EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury), as heating THC-O at high temperatures can produce ketene, a toxic byproduct that can severely damage lung tissue. This raises serious concerns for individuals who vape or dab THC-O, as inhalation of harmful byproducts may lead to long-term respiratory complications. [2]
Is THC-O addictive?
There is limited research on the addictive potential of THC-O. However, a study on cannabis use disorder suggests that prolonged exposure to high-potency THC analogs could increase the risk of dependence. [8]
Given THC-O's reported potency, it is possible that frequent use may contribute to similar dependency patterns observed with traditional THC products.
Conclusion
THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid that has gained popularity due to claims of increased potency and psychedelic-like effects. However, research indicates that its effects may be overstated, and its safety profile remains unclear. Given the potential risks, including lung injury from vaping and the possibility of dependence, consumers should approach THC-O with caution.
As the legal and scientific landscape evolves, further research is needed to fully understand its pharmacological properties and long-term effects.
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