Delta 8 THC popularity continues to grow as more people start to explore it's potential therapeutic or medical uses. While overall user feedback is largely positive, that doesn't mean there are no risks for adverse reactions or adverse effects.
Many people do find the effects from Delta 8 THC products to be enjoyable, especially when compared to its stronger cousin, Delta 9 THC, which is federally illegal despite its varying legal status on the individual state level. It is also important to be fully aware of its psychoactive and intoxicating effects and know about any potential health risks or potential side effects before using Delta 8.
What is Delta 8?
Have you ever wondered to yourself "What is Delta-8?" Delta-8 THC, or delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol is one of over 100 naturally occurring compounds, called cannabinoids found in small traces in both hemp plants and the cannabis sativa plant. Delta 8 is a psychoactive compound, meaning it does produce a "high", but to a much lesser degree than that of Delta 9 THC.
Overall, Delta 8 THC falls in a middle ground between CBD (hemp derived cannabidiol) and regular THC (Delta 9 THC). As a cannabinoid, the potential benefits that Delta 8 THC brings to the table are very appealing for many and make for a great alternative to those who are either unable to access THC legally, or those who prefer a more mellow alternative to Delta 9 THC or other cannabinoids.
Delta 8 Side Effects: What are they?
Delta 8 research is limited at best, with many of the studies that have been conducted having been done on animals, not humans. Delta 8 does have a lower psychoactive potency then Delta 9 THC, but it is unclear if that is also the case for Delta 8's other effects such as on pain relief and anxiety. More research is needed to know for sure.
What wo do know is that Delta 8 and Delta 9 are very similar chemically and in how they interact with the human body. Since both bind in the same way to the cannabinoid receptors in our brain, they likely share some of the same side effects. These adverse events may include:
Anxiety
Delta 8 as a whole is thought to have anti-anxiety properties but when taken in excessive amounts can cause the opposite effect and can cause some to feel anxious. This is because is it is a psychoactive substance and anything that has mind-altering properties can make some people feel uncomfortable when used in high enough doses.
Some will be more sensitive to Delta 8 THC than others. This is why we always recommend that you start out slow with a very small dose to get comfortable with how this cannabinoid works with your body before taking more.
Dry mouth
Temporary dry mouth can be experienced by some. You can combat this with increasing your water intake although this side effect is not necessarily a sign of dehydration.
It is actually a result of its effects on your salivary glands. Although this won't lead to hospital admission in healthy adults, it is important to know that these symptoms will subside once the active compound is no longer active in your body.
Dry eyes
Dry eyes are another common side effect caused by cannabis use, it is also another potential side effect that can happen when using Delta 8 THC, these symptoms are temporary and only last while the cannabinoid is active in your body.
This can leave your eyes looking red and can even lead to discomfort in extreme cases. The easiest remedy for this is to use moisturizing eye drops to limit this issue.
Grogginess
The psychoactive effects of hemp products and medical marijuana all have the potential to cause temporary grogginess for most people. The feelings that can accompany this are brain fog, poor concentration, and fatigue.
These side effects can usually be avoided by sticking with small manageable doses. While some may look at this as negative, others may actually welcome these effects.
Slowed reaction times
Since Delta 8 THC products and Delta 9 THC both activate the same areas of the brain that are responsible for the regulation of movement, it can cause slowed reaction times.
This is especially important for those who drive or operate machinery. You should be aware that side effects include slowed reaction times. If you decide to take Delta 8 THC you should allow yourself ample time to fully sober up. Do not risk driving or operating machinery.
Being unable to drive
You should plan ahead whenever taking Delta 8 or any THC product. It's intoxicating effects and legality of operating a vehicle or heavy machinery while intoxicated should not be ignored. Not only is this against the law in many states but it can prove to be dangerous and should be avoided.
You are better off taking it in safe conditions that won't require you to drive or have any other responsibilities that cannot do while impaired.
The responsibility that come with using Delta 8 THC is no different than when drinking alcohol. using medical marijuana, or any other hemp cannabis raw extracts.
Memory impairment
Some studies that have shown that low doses (micro-dosing) of Delta 8 THC can positively impact cognition but that doesn't mean that it can't impair your memory. Many users have actually reported cases of short-term memory impairment after taking large amounts.
This is not always the case; however, this issue is not unheard of by any means. If you do decide to take Delta 8 THC it is best to start out with a small dose and monitor its effects on your memory.
Increased appetite
Many adverse event reports include an increase of appetite when using Delta 8 or other cannabis products. Both Delta 8 THC and Delta 9 THC interact with the same part of your brain that regulates hunger.
Even though there are some promising benefits for increasing recovery times in athletes, you should probably avoid it if your main objective is weight loss.
Impaired motor skills
Like Delta 9 THC, hemp-based products have a similar impact on your motor skills. Users will notice an impairment in motor skills and potentially slowed reaction time.
Many people find that using Delta 8 over Delta 9 is a good option to limit this side effect. It is used by many who have physically demanding jobs and by those who require a high level of motor skills by limiting Delta 8 usage to the evening.
Since Delta 8 THC is less potent than Delta 9, they are able to enjoy the potential benefits of THC while avoiding the impact on their motor skills.
Reduced blood pressure
Delta 8 can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure for some. This can result in feeling lightheaded or dizzy. If you know that you already have low blood pressure, then Delta 8 might not be right for you.
If you do decide to try it anyway, start off with a very small dose to see how you react. Standing up quickly can make the issue worse so it is suggested that you avoid doing so when using it.
Failed Drug Test
Since Delta 8 THC products are a psychoactive substance found in the cannabis plant, it triggers the same metabolites that break down Delta 9 THC in marijuana. This is exactly what urine tests are looking for. So, even though Delta 8 and Delta 8 THC are different, the typical urine test will not differentiate between the two.
Keep in mind that full spectrum CBD products should also be avoided. Even though they are non-psychoactive, unlike marijuana, there is a potential for them to cause a failed a drug test. Just remember that drug tests are looking for and identify all versions of THC.
Who Shouldn’t Take Delta 8?
Although there are not any serious health risks reported from taking Delta 8 THC products or other cannabis products, there are some people that should avoid it. That includes anyone who is subject to drug screenings, prone to any of the issues listed above, and anyone who is using any medications.
If you have pre-existing medical conditions or are currently taking certain prescriptions it is suggested that you talk to your doctor before trying Delta 8. Remember that ultimately Delta 8 is a nontoxic compound that can be managed by most and any common side effects that do occur typically resolve themselves by the next day.
Conclusion
Now that you are fully aware of the most common side effects associated with Delta 8 you can make a more informed decision of whether or not it is right for you. Keep in mind that there is still more research needed. Until then, user feedback has definitely shown promise for its potential benefits.
If you do decide that it is right for you, just remember to consider the potential adverse events along with possible safety concerns, and remember to start with a very small dosage and take it with food. It is important to gauge how it will react with your body before taking more.
Remember, Delta 8 gummies side effects can have the tendency to creep up a lot slower than other consumption methods. When taking Delta 8 gummies or edibles it is best to take with food and allow at least 4-6 hours to make sure you know exactly how you are affected before taking more. It is also wise to avoid taking concentrated amounts.
