Understanding Delta-8 THC: What You Need to Know

Delta-8 THC, short for delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in trace amounts in hemp and cannabis (marijuana) plants. Although it exists naturally, most delta-8 products available today—like gummies, vape cartridges, and capsules—are made by converting cannabidiol (CBD) from hemp into delta-8 in a lab.

Its popularity has surged in recent years, and you can now find delta-8 products in specialty dispensaries, convenience stores, and online. But what exactly is it, and how does it compare to other cannabinoids?

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabis plants contain more than 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. Some are psychoactive, meaning they affect the brain, while others are not.

The most well-known cannabinoids are:

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive compound in marijuana.
• CBD (cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating, often used for medicinal purposes.

The FDA has approved certain cannabinoids for medical use, such as treating seizures or chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

How Delta-8 Differs From Other Cannabinoids

Delta-8 vs. Delta-9 THC

Delta-8 is chemically similar to delta-9 THC, the main compound in marijuana responsible for its “high.” However, delta-8 produces a milder high and is often called “marijuana lite” or “diet weed.” Users typically report less paranoia, anxiety, and drowsiness compared to delta-9.

Delta-8 vs. CBD

Unlike delta-8, CBD does not get you high. CBD is used in FDA-approved medications for epilepsy and is being studied for conditions like anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. Delta-8’s effects and benefits are less researched.

Is Delta-8 Synthetic?

Almost all commercially available delta-8 is lab-made using CBD from hemp and various chemicals. Because the process is unregulated, products may contain harmful byproducts.

How People Use Delta-8

Delta-8 comes in many forms:

• Edibles: Gummies or brownies (10–50 mg per piece). Start with a small amount and wait up to 2 hours before taking more. Keep away from children and pets.
• Tinctures: Liquid extracts placed under the tongue or added to food and drinks.
• Vapes: Cartridges, disposable pens, or dab pens for inhaling concentrates.
• Smokable forms: Buds or hemp sprayed with delta-8 concentrate.
• Capsules and topical products: Pills or creams/patches applied to the skin.

Effects of Delta-8 THC

Short-Term Side Effects

Users may experience:

• Confusion or dizziness
• Anxiety or drowsiness
• Changes in heart rate or blood pressure
• Numbness, vomiting, shaking, or hallucinations

Seek medical help immediately if severe reactions occur. Delta-8 is unsafe for children, pregnant, or nursing individuals.

Long-Term Effects

Little is known about the long-term use of delta-8. Studies on delta-9 THC suggest chronic use can affect memory, attention, and processing speed. Unregulated additives in delta-8 products may also pose health risks.

Legal Status of Delta-8

Delta-8 occupies a legal gray area. Extracted mainly from hemp, it’s technically legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, some states—like New York and Colorado—have banned or restricted its sale due to safety concerns.

Possessing or selling delta-8 in prohibited states can lead to legal consequences, and driving under its influence is illegal everywhere.

Preventing Addiction

Contact R&A Therapeutic Partners for Help

At R&A Therapeutic Partners, we believe that everyone can overcome addiction, regardless of how long or how much they have used a substance. We assess each client’s unique needs, so we can give them the tools to succeed. Smoking and other delta-8 delivery devices are some of the biggest killers in the United States. Ending your addiction will vastly improve your chances of living a longer, healthier life. 

If you are interested in ending your delta-8 addiction, R&A Therapeutic Partners can help. Contact our team today by calling 786-933-7260 and scheduling an appointment.

At R&A Therapeutic Partners, Raymond Estefania and Ana Moreno specialize in substance use and mental health disorder evaluations, treatment, intervention, and therapeutic/educational consulting for clients throughout the greater South Florida area, as well as nationally and internationally. For more resources and information, please visit Therapeutic-Partners.com or on Facebook.

At R&A Therapeutic Partners Raymond Estefania and Ana Moreno specialize in substance use and mental health disorder evaluations, treatment, intervention and therapeutic/educational consulting for clients throughout the greater South Florida area, as well as nationally and internationally. For more resources and information please visit Therapeutic-Partners.com or on Facebook.