THC-O, otherwise known as THC-O acetate, is the newest hemp-derived THC analogue to join the party, and even the most avid hemp consumers have some questions. Most importantly, consumers want to know “Will THC-O get me high like traditional THC? And what should I expect from the THC-O experience?”
The quick answer is yes! THC-O will indeed get you high, but the effects are different from what you may experience with traditional THC, and definitely different from the effects of other hemp-derived THC products, like Delta-8.
Before you dive in, here’s what you need to know about THC-O effects:
Table of Contents
What is a THC-O High Like?
Does THC-O Have Therapeutic Benefits?
Does THC-O Have Side Effects?
How Long Does it Take for THC-O to Kick In?
Will THC-O Fail a Drug Test?
Frequently Asked Questions
THC-O-acetate is classified as a prodrug, which means it’s entirely inactive until it's metabolized by the body. That means that the effects may take a bit longer to kick in compared to other THC products. Some claims also suggest that THC-O is more bioavailable than most other forms of THC, which means more of the THC-O you ingest actually makes it to the bloodstream.
According to the general consensus, THC-O is around three times more potent than traditional Delta-9 THC products. At lower doses, the effects are often described as euphoric and mildly sedating, and larger doses are described as borderline psychedelic and having potent sedative-like effects.
Some people describe THC-O as an equal mix of mental euphoria and body high, sometimes even describing the experience as a heightened spiritual or introspective sensation. Some of the effects you may experience from THC-O include:
Keep in mind that the effects of THC-O vary by dose and THC tolerance, and that every individual will have a unique experience with different THC-O products.
It may go without saying, but THC-O is an incredibly potent psychoactive compound, which means you should not take THC-O (or any other THC products) before driving, operating machinery, or performing other activities where it would be otherwise unsafe to be intoxicated.
We also recommend that new THC users, or those with a low THC tolerance, start with very small doses of THC-O, or perhaps find a product that combines THC-O with Delta-8 for milder, more balanced effects.
There's currently very little research available to evaluate the potential medicinal benefits of THC-O. However, it interacts with the body in a similar manner to traditional THC products, and experts believe that it is likely to produce many of the same therapeutic effects.
Specifically, some reports suggest that THC-O may have powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and sleep-supportive properties. In general, though, more research is needed to understand the full potential of THC-O as a therapeutic substance.
Because THC-O produces incredibly potent psychoactive effects, it's fair for consumers to wonder whether there are any THC-O side effects to be concerned about.
In general, THC-O side effects may be similar to the potential side effects experienced with traditional THC products, like Delta-9-THC. Some of the most common side effects reported with THC dosing include:
Although research is yet to delve into THC-O risks and it's hard to say how common side effects may be, it is fair to assume that some people may be more sensitive to feeling anxious or paranoid after a THC-O dose. This is simply because the psychoactive effects are stronger. Similarly, Delta-8-THC is thought to be lesslikely to cause paranoia and anxiety because it's less potent than traditional THC products.
We always suggest starting with small doses and working your way up to larger amounts after you understand how THC-O affects you. In many cases, adverse effects can be linked to taking too much THC-O and side effects can be avoided with proper dosage.
In general, THC-O may take a bit longer to kick in than most other THC products, but the exact amount of time it takes depends on the dosing method you use.
For instance, a Delta-9-THC tincture can take about 30 minutes to kick in, while smoked or vaped Delta-9 may kick in after only 5 minutes. On the other hand, THC-O tinctures may take around 45 minutes to begin to take effect, and a THC-O vape dose may kick in after about 20 minutes.
Most likely, yes, THC-O will cause a failed drug test. This is because drug tests usually look for 11-hydroxy-THC, a THC metabolite produced by the body after THC consumption.
Delta-9, Delta-8, THC-O, and most forms of THC will all produce this same metabolite, although at different rates. Therefore all different forms of THC will cause a positive result on most drug tests.
Keep in mind that even though THC-O is a legal cannabinoid, a drug test will not be able to determine what type of THC you ingested.
So, does THC-O get you high? Absolutely. THC-O is known for its incredibly potent psychoactive effects, delivering a unique blend of mental euphoria and physical relaxation that sets it apart from other cannabinoids. For many users, THC-O effects can range from mildly euphoric and relaxing at lower doses to profoundly psychedelic and sedative at higher doses.
Whether you're seeking a heightened creative experience, a deep sense of relaxation, or simply curious about this new cannabinoid, it’s important to approach THC-O with caution. Start with a low dose, especially if you're new to THC-O or have a low THC tolerance, and consider products that combine THC-O with milder cannabinoids like Delta-8 for a more balanced experience.
THC-O offers exciting potential, but its potency demands respect. Use it responsibly, stay mindful of its effects, and enjoy the unique experience it has to offer.
At Vida Optima, our hemp Delta-9-THC Delta-8-THC products are legal and accessible to anyone 21+, meaning you can order online and get your favorite legal hemp THC products without leaving your couch.
Check out ourCloud9 Collection and Elev8 Collection contains a full selection of gummies, flower, vapes, and more, including a variety of strains and dosages.
Yes, THC-O is significantly more potent than traditional THC, estimated to be around three times stronger. Its effects can feel “borderline hallucinatory,” depending on the dose, but the intensity varies by individual tolerance and consumption method.
THC-O may produce effects that feel hallucinogenic, such as light visuals and intense mental euphoria. However, it is not considered truly psychedelic like substances such as psilocybin. The experience is more about a heightened sense of euphoria and introspection rather than a full-blown psychedelic trip.
Because of its potency, THC-O doses should start small. Beginners may find that 1-3 mg orally or 0.5 mg via inhalation is sufficient. Experienced users might take doses of 25 mg or more but should still exercise caution.
Yes, THC-O is far stronger than Delta-8. Delta-8 is known for its mild and relaxing effects, while THC-O delivers a much more intense and euphoric high.
The effects of THC-O typically include:
THC-O's legality varies by jurisdiction. In the U.S., it is derived from federally legal hemp, but some states have restricted or banned it. Always check local regulations before purchasing or using THC-O products.
Yes, for most people, 25 mg of THC-O is a high dose. Beginners should start with much smaller amounts to gauge their tolerance and avoid potential side effects like anxiety or paranoia.
Yes, Delta-8 THC can cause a positive result on drug tests, as most tests cannot distinguish between Delta-8, Delta-9, or THC-O.
A THC-O high is often described as intensely euphoric and sedative, with a balance of mental stimulation and physical relaxation. The effects can feel introspective and spiritual, with light visual enhancements. These effects usually take longer to kick in compared to other cannabinoids.
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