Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC) is a psychoactive substance found in the Cannabis sativa plant, which includes both marijuana and hemp varieties. While naturally present in small amounts, concentrated delta-8 THC products are typically manufactured from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) through a chemical conversion process [1] [3]. The legality of delta-8 THC often exists in a gray area due to a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, without specifically addressing delta-8 THC [2] [3]. This has led to its widespread availability in various forms, including edibles, vapes, and tinctures, often sold in convenience stores, gas stations, and online, sometimes without age restrictions [1] [2] [4].

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Yes, delta-8 THC is considered dangerous due to several factors, including a lack of FDA evaluation and approval, reported adverse events, its psychoactive effects, the use of potentially harmful chemicals in its production, and marketing practices that appeal to children.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not evaluated or approved delta-8 THC products for safe use in any context and has issued warnings about the serious health risks they pose [1] [2] [6]. The FDA is concerned about the variability in product formulations, labeling, and concentrations, as well as the deceptive marketing of these products for therapeutic or medical uses without proven safety or effectiveness [1] [6].

Adverse event reports involving delta-8 THC products have been received by the FDA and national poison control centers. Between December 1, 2020, and February 28, 2022, the FDA received 104 reports, with 55% requiring medical intervention or hospital admission [1] [6]. Adverse events included hallucinations, vomiting, tremor, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness [1] [3] [6]. National poison control centers managed 2,362 exposure cases between January 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022, with 41% involving pediatric patients and 40% being unintentional exposures [1] [6]. Provisional data for 2023 showed thousands of calls to America's Poison Centers regarding delta-8 products [2]. As of April 30, 2025, Poison Centers have managed 10,434 delta-8 THC related exposure cases since 2021 [7]. There has been at least one reported pediatric death associated with delta-8 THC exposure [1] [8].

Delta-8 THC has psychoactive and intoxicating effects similar to, though generally less potent than, delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in marijuana [1] [2] [3] [7]. Users may experience a "high" and other effects on mood, thoughts, feelings, and behavior [3]. However, due to the unregulated nature of these products, consumers cannot be certain of the actual concentration or purity, and high doses can still lead to potent THC effects [2].

The manufacturing process for delta-8 THC raises significant safety concerns. Since delta-8 THC is found in very low natural concentrations in hemp, it is typically synthesized from CBD using various chemicals [1] [3] [7]. This process may involve the use of potentially unsafe household chemicals, and the final product can contain harmful by-products or contaminants [1] [3] [6]. Manufacturing often occurs in uncontrolled or unsanitary settings, further increasing the risk of contamination [1].

Delta-8 THC products are often packaged and labeled in ways that appeal to children, such as gummies, chocolates, cookies, and candies, which can be easily mistaken for ordinary treats [1] [2] [8]. This marketing, combined with the lack of age restrictions in many retail environments, has led to numerous accidental exposures in children and pets [1] [2] [8]. Experts strongly advise keeping these products out of reach of children and pets [1] [2] [8].

Furthermore, there is a significant lack of research on the long-term health effects of delta-8 THC [3]. While some users claim benefits for conditions like stress, anxiety, or pain, these claims are largely unproven [2] [3]. The inconsistent labeling and unregulated nature mean that products may contain impurities, including high levels of delta-9 THC, or other harmful substances like lead and mercury [2] [3]. Driving under the influence of delta-8 THC is also dangerous and illegal, as it can cause impaired cognitive performance, slowed reaction time, and decreased attention, similar to delta-9 THC [9].