THC-O, or Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate, is an alternative compound that has gained attention for its unique properties. Many people report THC-O is significantly more potent than THC, likely due to its THC-O’s chemical structure that allows it to cross the blood-brain barrier more easily. Unfortunately, THC-O’s chemical structure may also make smoking the compound dangerous for respiratory health.
This article will explore the current research and scientific evidence surrounding THC-O and its potential impact on lung health and advise on the best products to avoid damage.
Understanding THC-O
THC-O, also known as THC-O acetate, is a cannabinoid derivative of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. THC-O is chemically modified by acetylating the THC molecule, resulting in a compound with distinct properties. Acetylations enhances THCO’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to neural cannabinoid receptors, resulting in a more intense and prolonged high. Check THC-O edibles for sale here to experience the effects.
Users report THC-O is significantly more potent than regular THC, with some sources claiming it to be up to three times more powerful and longer-lasting. Additionally, many people say THCO-A has a faster onset of action.
Cannabis science is still exploring the exact mechanisms, and more research is needed to understand THCO’s properties fully.
The Relationship Between THC-O and Respiratory Health
Following a recent study, people are increasingly concerned about THCO’s effect on respiratory health.
THCO Vaping Research
University of California researchers recently published an alarming study in the Journal of Medical Toxicology on THCO-acetate vape products.
The study found that THC-O acetate increases lung damage risks when inhaled.
Why? THC-O acetate shares similar structural qualities to vitamin E acetate, an additive known to become toxic when converted by heat.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicated that vitamin E acetate was the main culprit in the EVALI lung disease outbreak, which killed five Californians in 2019-20. When exposed to heat, vitamin E acetate can also generate carcinogenic substances like alkenes and benzene.
The University of California research suggests that THC-O acetate could be similarly converted into the lungs and pose a significant health risk to people using these products, potentially spurring a second EVALI epidemic.
Smoking and Lung Health
Vaping risks aside, smoking any cannabinoid, including THC and THCO, can affect respiratory health because the compounds travel directly into the lungs.
On the upside, smoking cannabis causes bronchodilation, which means that it can open up the airways and increase airflow. This property may relieve conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Conversely, research has raised concerns about marijuana’s potentially harmful respiratory effects. For example, marijuana smoke is associated with acute symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Some studies have also linked frequent, long-term smoking habits with chronic bronchitis and respiratory infections.
Harm Reduction Strategies
The best strategy to prevent THCO-related lung damage is to avoid vaping this cannabinoid altogether and only purchase vitamin E-free products.
Consumers can also take common-sense measures to avoid general smoking risks, like:
- Smoking in moderation and avoiding high doses.
- Choosing high-quality cannabis flower that has been tested for contaminants like pesticides or molds.
- Smoking in well-ventilated areas or outdoors to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Drinking plenty of water to keep the respiratory system moist and avoid dry smoke irritation.
- Exploring alternative methods of administration that do not involve smoking.
Safest THC-O Product Types to Avoid Lung Risks
The best methods of THCO administration to minimize the risk of lung injury are those that do not require inhalation.
Edibles: Consuming THCO orally, such as through edibles or beverages, can bypass the respiratory system and reduce the risk of lung injury associated with inhalation. However, it’s important to note that oral ingestion of THC can result in different effects and onset times compared to inhalation, as THC is metabolized differently in the digestive system.
Topical application: Applying infused creams, lotions, or oils to the outer skin layers is another delivery method that avoids the respiratory system altogether. Topical products typically incorporate regular THC or CBD used for localized pain relief. These products do not enter the lungs, reducing the potential for injury.
Transdermal patches: Transdermal patches are specifically designed to deliver THC and other cannabinoids through the skin and into the bloodstream, circumventing the respiratory system. These patches can provide a controlled and sustained release of THC, making them a potentially safer option than inhalation.
Sublingual administration: Sublingual administration involves placing THCO-infused products, such as tinctures or sprays, under the tongue for absorption into the bloodstream. This method allows THCO to bypass the respiratory system completely.
The Bottom Line
Recent research indicates that vaping THC-O acetate may increase the risk of lung damage, similar to the risks associated with vitamin E acetate. However, harm reduction strategies such as avoiding vaping THC-O altogether and opting for other administration methods, such as edibles, can bypass the respiratory system and reduce the risk of lung injury. It’s important for consumers to be informed about the potential risks and to make responsible choices when using THC-O or any cannabis product to prioritize their respiratory health.