Delta-8-THC Side Effects and How to Avoid Them

by Kat Austin December 13, 2021 6 min read

Delta-8-THC Side Effects and How to Avoid Them - VO Inc

Delta-8-THC is a potent force in today's hemp market. It's mild psychoactive effects and vast therapeutic potential have made it a hot topic among consumers, and it's federal legal status makes it far more accessible than traditional THC products.

However, it's important to ask before you try: What are Delta-8 side effects?

Common side effects of Delta-8-THC include dry mouth, red eyes, dizziness, and increased heart rate. Some users might also experience anxiety or paranoia. Understanding these effects is crucial before using Delta-8-THC.

For a deeper dive into Delta-8's side effects and how to manage them, check out our detailed article.

Table of Contents
What are the Most Common Delta 8 Side Effects?
Less Common Delta 8 Side Effects
How to Avoid Delta-8 Side Effects
What to Do if You Experience Delta 8 Side Effects
What to Do if You Experience Delta 8 Side Effects?
Is Delta 8 Safe?
FAQ

Key Takeaways

  • Similar to Delta-9-THC: Delta-8-THC shares many benefits and drawbacks with Delta-9-THC.
  • Common Side Effects: Mild side effects include dry eyes, dry mouth, increased thirst, appetite, and tiredness. These are often due to incorrect dosing or poor-quality products.
  • Avoiding Adverse Effects: Start with a low dose and use high-quality Delta-8 products to minimize side effects.

 

What are the Most Common Delta-8 Side Effects?

a close up of Delta-8 hemp flower before harvest

In general, the side effects of Delta-8-THC products are rare and mild. Because Delta-8 has milder psychoactive effects than Delta-9, the risk of certain side effects is even less significant.

Particularly, the risk of developing sudden anxiety or paranoia is much lower. That's because the side effects are generally linked to over-consumption of THC. Since Delta-8 is milder in general, it takes much more Delta-8-THC to reach the same level of over consumption. Still, some of the mild side effects associated with Delta-8 include

  • Dry, red eyes
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased thirst
  • Increased hunger
  • Dehydration
  • Tiredness
  • Trouble focusing

Less Common Delta-8 Side Effects

Some Delta-8-THC side effects are even more rare and are generally linked to taking Delta-8 doses that are too large. Still, these less common side effects may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Rapid heart rate

How to Avoid Delta-8-THC Side Effects

To minimize Delta-8-THC side effects, follow these guidelines:

  1. Choose Quality Products: Opt for well-made, lab-tested Delta-8 products. Ensure they use safe extraction methods, like CO2, and verify accuracy through third-party testing.
  2. Check Ingredients: Avoid products with allergens or sensitive ingredients and use fresh products within their expiration date. Review customer feedback for additional insights.
  3. Understand Dosage: Start with a small dose, especially if you’re new to Delta-8. Although less potent than Delta-9, Delta-8 effects are different, so begin with low doses and adjust gradually. Tinctures are ideal for precise dosing and faster effects.

A Delta-8-THC tincture is a great way to experiment with different doses since it allows you to measure the dose in precise increments each time. It also takes effect quickly, usually in about 30 minutes, as opposed to some edibles that can take an hour or more to kick in.

For detailed dosing information, see our article “How Much Delta-8-THC Should I Take?

A delta 8 edible cookie covered by a raw hemp leaf

What to Do if You Experience Delta-8-THC Side Effects?

If you're wondering how to get rid of a Delta-8 high or how to reverse Delta-8 side effects, the truth is that you usually have to let it run its course. However, you can do a few things to make the experience more comfortable. 

If you experience mild Delta-8-THC side effects, such as headaches or tiredness, try resting or taking a nap. A cool shower can help ease feelings of panic, while staying hydrated and eating small healthy snacks may reduce discomfort.

For more severe side effects like extreme nausea or vomiting, which are rare, especially in chronic users or those who took too much, seek medical help. If symptoms persist or seem unusual, it could indicate an issue with the product rather than the Delta-8 itself.

To manage and reverse Delta-8 side effects, focus on hydration and relaxation. In most cases, side effects are mild and short-lived. 

More Info: What is Delta-8-THC?

Delta-8-THC is a phytocannabinoid much like traditional THC and CBD. Delta-8 boasts many of the same effects and benefits as traditional THC, which means users seek it out for recreational and therapeutic purposes.

In fact, the Delta-8 and Delta-9 molecules are almost identical, and they interact with the body's endocannabinoid system in very similar ways. Delta-8-THC has psychoactive effects similar to traditional THC products, although they are thought to be only about half as potent.

Unlike traditional THC products, however, Delta-8-THC can be derived directly from hemp material. Because hemp products are legal in the US by federal law, Delta-8-THC is also federally legal and much more accessible than traditional THC products. Thanks to this increased accessibility, Delta-8 products are becoming increasingly popular both for recreational and therapeutic purposes.

Is Delta-8 Safe?

The argument has been made that Delta-8-THC is synthetic because of the way that it is made from CBD derived from hemp material. While it's true that Delta-8 is created from CBD through a process called “isomerization,” Delta-8-THC is a natural THC. Still, this unconventional extraction method leads many people to be concerned about the safety of Delta-8-THC products.

In general, Delta-8-THC is thought to be as safe as traditional THC products. There's currently no research that specifically evaluates Delta-8’s safety profile, but most of the research regarding Delta 8's benefits notes that it is generally well tolerated by patients.

In fact, one pediatric study suggests that Delta-8-THC may be a safer alternative to traditional THC products for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea. The study concluded that Delta-8 was actually much less likely to induce some of the most common adverse effects, like anxiety and paranoia.

While natural Delta-8-THC material may be just as safe as any other natural THC product, it's important to note that all Delta-8 products are made differently. The most significant safety concerns surround the quality of a Delta-8 product. In other words, while Delta-8 is likely safe, you still need to ensure that Delta-8 is made with high-quality ingredients and safe manufacturing practices.

Where to Buy High Quality Delta-8-THC

Delta-8 is federally legal and is legal in most states, which means it's easier than ever to buy Delta-8-THC both in stores and online. Of course, in order to reduce the chance of experiencing side effects from Delta-8, you should take time to diligently review a product before you buy.

At Vida Optima, our Delta-8-THC products are made from US grown, pesticide-free hemp material and are third-party tested by batch before sale. All of our products are fully Farm Bill compliant and made according to the industry's highest standards.

To find Delta-8-THC oils, edibles, vaporizers, flower, and more, check out our Elev8 Collection.

Halloweed THC Edibles Bundle - Vida Optima™-

FAQ: Delta-8 Side Effects

Does Delta-8 Dehydrate You?

Yes, Delta-8 can cause mild dehydration. Like other THC products, Delta-8-THC may lead to symptoms such as dry mouth and increased thirst, which are signs of mild dehydration. This occurs because THC can temporarily reduce saliva production and affect fluid balance in the body. 

To prevent or minimize dehydration, it's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after using Delta-8. If you notice symptoms like dry mouth, drinking water or sucking on sugar-free candy can help alleviate discomfort.

Is Delta-8 harmful to the body?

Delta-8-THC is generally considered less potent than Delta-9-THC, but it can still have harmful effects, especially with excessive or prolonged use. Potential risks include impaired motor function, anxiety, and increased heart rate.

What are the negative effects of Delta-8?

Some users may experience side effects such as dry mouth, red eyes, dizziness, increased heart rate, or anxiety. In rare cases, it may cause more severe reactions like paranoia or hallucinations.

What are the bad reactions to Delta?

Bad reactions to Delta-8 can include anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, and nausea. Overconsumption can exacerbate these effects, leading to discomfort or panic.

Is Delta-8 bad for your heart?

Delta-8 may increase heart rate and blood pressure, which could be concerning for individuals with heart conditions or those prone to heart-related issues. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using it if you have any heart concerns.

Who should not take Delta-8?

People with heart conditions, those prone to anxiety or paranoia, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals taking certain medications should avoid Delta-8 or consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Is Delta-8 safe for your brain?

While Delta-8 is thought to be less psychoactive than Delta-9-THC, there’s limited research on its long-term effects on the brain. Some studies suggest potential risks to brain health, particularly with high doses or frequent use, so caution is advised.

How to Get Rid of a Delta-8 High?

If you need to get rid of a Delta-8 high, there are a few strategies you can try:

  • Stay Calm: First, try to relax. The effects will eventually wear off, but staying calm can help you manage any anxiety or discomfort.
  • Hydrate: Drink water to help flush out your system and alleviate dry mouth or other discomforts.
  • Eat a Snack: Eating can sometimes help ground you and may help your body metabolize the Delta-8 faster.
  • Take a Cool Shower: A cool shower can help you feel more alert and calm if you're feeling too high.
  • Rest: If possible, take a nap or rest until the effects diminish. Delta-8 typically wears off within a few hours.

If you're experiencing more severe side effects, seek medical advice.

Resources

1. "An efficient new cannabinoid antiemetic in pediatric oncology" https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7776837/


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