Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), also known as delta-8, is becoming an increasingly popular product. Let’s dive deeper into what you need to know about delta-8 to help keep you and your loved ones safe.
What Is Delta-8?
Delta-8 is a type of THC found in small amounts in the hemp and marijuana varieties of the cannabis plant. It is similar to delta-9-THC – commonly called THC – and cannabidiol (CBD). Delta-8 can be smoked, vaped, or eaten. It is available in liquid cartridges, beverages, candy, certain foods, and a variety of other forms.
Is Delta-8 Legal?
The legal status of delta-8 products is very complex and unclear at both state and federal levels. Products containing delta-8 are available for purchase from stores, gas stations, and online. Since these products are widely available, underage children may be able to purchase them.
How Does Delta-8 Affect Your Body?
The effects of using products that contain delta-8 are different than those caused by delta-9 products. Delta-8 gives a milder “high” feeling compared to delta-9.
When delta-8 is smoked or vaped, it goes into the lungs. From there, it enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain. The brain reacts to the chemical, causing you to feel the effects within a few minutes of smoking. On the other hand, when delta-8 is consumed as a beverage or edible, it takes about 1-3 hours before it begins to affect the body, because it takes longer for the substance to enter the bloodstream.
Different products will contain a different amount of delta-8 per serving. It’s important to follow directions and consume no more than the serving size recommended for a particular product.
Delta-8 products also affect children differently than adults. Children exposed to any cannabis product might have trouble walking or sitting up, sleepiness, and trouble breathing. If you suspect a child has gotten into cannabis in any form, call the poison center right away at 1-800-222-1222. Do not wait for symptoms.
How Can I Safely Use Delta-8?
Always read the package label and instructions before using a product. It is important to find the serving size of the product you are using on the package. Many times, there is more than one serving included in a single package. It is possible that one serving is only a small part of a whole piece or one part of a beverage can. For example, a serving may be one half of a gummy, one square of a bar, a part of a cookie, or half of a beverage can.
How Can I Safely Store Delta-8?
Delta-8-THC and any other THC-containing products should be stored up, away, and out of sight. These products should be kept in their original, labeled containers. Do not remove the original packaging from a product. The food and beverages could be easily mistaken for a regular food or beverage, especially to a child. Poison specialists at the Maryland Poison Center (MPC) have managed poisoning cases in which children and pets got into delta-8 products. Oftentimes, children find the products in a purse or backpack, or left out on the counter and think they are regular food or candies and eat them. Safe storage of these products can help prevent poisonings. Learn more about safe storage in a previous blog post.
If you or someone you know is experiencing unwanted or unexpected effects from delta-8-THC or any other cannabis product, call the poison experts right away. We are ready to take your call 24/7/365 at 1-800-222-1222. Your call is free and confidential.
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