Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (thc)

Scientific names: Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol

Alternate names: Amber, BHO, Black Glass, Budder, Butane Hash Oil, Butane Honey Oil, Butter, Dabs, Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, Delta-9 THC, Delta-9-THC, Ear Wax, Glass, Honeycomb, Liquid THC, Marijuana Wax, Sap, Shatter, Wax, Wax Butter

Scientific names: Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol

Background

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a cannabinoid found in cannabis (Cannabis sativa). The psychoactive effects of cannabis are mainly due to THC.

There are over 80 cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa, but THC and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well-studied. THC works by binding to specific sites in the brain and on the nerves. It's found in the highest levels in the leaves and flowers of the plant.

THC is commonly used as a recreational drug. People also use THC for multiple sclerosis (MS), nerve pain, nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, alcohol use disorder, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using THC for COVID-19.

Don't confuse THC with other cannabinoids found in cannabis, including cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC), or tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV). Also don't confuse it with synthetic cannabinoids such as K2/Spice, or with plants containing THC, such as cannabis or hemp. These are not the same. THC is illegal on the federal level in the US. Due to its THC content, cannabis is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. But some states have legalized or decriminalized recreational use.

Safety Safety definitions

When taken by mouth: THC is possibly unsafe when used in large amounts or long-term. Edible cannabis containing 50 mg or more of THC has been linked with serious side effects. Regularly taking large amounts of THC might cause cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). CHS leads to severe nausea and vomiting that doesn't respond to typical anti-nausea drugs. Also, using THC for at least 1-2 weeks can cause dependence.

When applied to the skin: A specific cannabis extract spray that contains THC and cannabidiol (Sativex, GW Pharmaceuticals) is possibly safe when used for up to 2 years. This product is a prescription drug in the UK and Canada. It is an investigation drug in the US.

When inhaled: THC is possibly unsafe when used in large amounts or long-term. Smoking or vaping THC can cause breathing problems. Vaping products containing THC have been linked to serious lung injury. Regularly smoking cannabis containing THC may cause CHS and/or dependence.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy: Using THC is unsafe during pregnancy. The chemicals in cannabis, including THC, pass through the placenta and can slow the growth of the fetus and increase the risk for premature birth, stillbirth, childhood leukemia, abnormalities, or the need for intensive care after birth. It can also lead to lower intelligence and emotional problems in the child when they grow up. It also increases the risk for anemia and high blood pressure while pregnant.

Breast-feeding: Using THC is likely unsafe while breast-feeding. THC passes into breastmilk and stays in breastmilk for longer than 6 weeks, even after THC use has been stopped. This might slow down the development of the baby. Avoid all THC use if planning to breastfeed.

Bipolar disorder: Using THC might make manic symptoms worse in people with bipolar disorder.

Heart disease: THC might cause fast heartbeat and high blood pressure. It might also increase the risk of having a heart attack.

Epilepsy: High doses of THC might cause seizures in people with epilepsy. There have been several reports where high doses of cannabis that contains THC have caused seizures.

Schizophrenia: Using THC might make symptoms of schizophrenia worse.

Surgery: THC affects the central nervous system. It might slow the central nervous system too much when combined with anesthesia and other medications during and after surgery. Stop using THC at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Effectiveness

Effective Effectiveness definitions

There is interest in using THC for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Dosing & administration

THC is commonly used in capsules, edible products, sprays, vape products, and cigarettes. The effects and side effects of THC products can vary significantly depending on how much THC they contain. Concentrations range from 1% to 80% THC. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

THC is illegal under federal law in the US. Due to its THC content, cannabis is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. Some states have legalized or decriminalized use.