What Is Delta-8 THC? What You Need To Know

You may have seen delta-8 THC on gas station shelves or heard about it in news reports tied to hemp legislation. But what is it — and is it safe?

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Psychiatrist and addiction specialist David Streem, MD, explains what delta-8 is, how it affects your body and why experts urge caution.

What is delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is one of more than 100 chemicals in the Cannabis sativa plant (marijuana). It’s part of a group of compounds called cannabinoids, alongside CBD and delta-9 THC — the form of THC most people think of.

These compounds affect your mind and body in different ways.

“Delta-8 is intoxicating, which means it gives you a ‘high,’” explains Dr. Streem. “It may have a milder effect than delta-9 THC.”

But there’s an important distinction. Nearly all delta-8 products you see on store shelves are synthetic, not natural.

“They typically have much higher levels of delta-8 than what occurs in the plant,” he adds.

How is it made?

In most cases, delta-8 is made in a lab.

With the help of acidic chemicals and heat, manufacturers change hemp-derived CBD oil into delta-8 THC. This approach became popular for a reason.

The U.S. 2018 Farm Bill specified delta-9 THC as a controlled substance — a legal loophole that enabled retailers to sell delta-8 THC. But using natural forms of delta-8 wasn’t efficient because the cannabis plant has very low levels of it. So, businesses turned to concentrated synthetic forms instead.

Is delta-8 legal?

In the United States, the legal status of delta-8 continues to change at both the federal and state levels.

If you’re unsure about the cannabis and hemp laws where you live, check with your local or state government for the most up-to-date information.

How delta-8 affects your body

Like other cannabinoids, delta-8 interacts with receptors in your brain that are part of your endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate things like mood, sleep and memory.

Research on delta-8 is still very limited, so there’s a lot we don’t yet know about its full effects.

A small study suggests short-term effects may include:

A euphoric “high”
Blurred vision
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Increased heart rate
Reddened eyes
Relaxation

But take this list with a grain of salt, Dr. Streem cautions. “Research is very limited on the range of delta-8’s side effects, especially long-term effects.”

Another important factor is the dose. Existing research looks at the effects of small, controlled amounts of delta-8. But manufactured forms of it can contain much higher — or inconsistent — concentrations.

The risks of using delta-8

Because of how it’s made and sold, delta-8 may carry several risks. Key concerns include:

Lack of regulation: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t evaluated or approved delta-8 THC products for safe use.
Toxicity and poisoning: From 2021 to 2025, U.S. poison centers managed more than 10,000 cases related to delta-8 THC exposure. Children are especially vulnerable because of their smaller size.
Packaging issues: Synthetic products are known to have inaccurate cannabinoid amounts listed on their packaging. And that bright, colorful packaging often draws in youth.
Contamination risks: Many of the chemicals used to convert CBD into delta-8 create potential health risks. The final product may be contaminated with solvents, heavy metals, pesticides and microbes.

There are also risks linked to intoxication itself. For example, delta-8 can impair judgment and coordination.

And yes, delta-8 is likely to show up in drug tests. That’s because your body breaks it down into THC compounds, which is what the tests often check for. And there’s not yet any medical research to determine how long delta-8 stays in your system.

Bottom line? “Delta-8 products are very risky — and dangerous,” stresses Dr. Streem.

Are there any potential uses for delta-8?

The FDA hasn’t approved delta-8 THC for any medical use.

Though some people say it helps with stress, anxiety, pain or depression, these are personal anecdotes without strong scientific evidence.

A few research studies suggest delta-8 may:

Help reduce chemotherapy side effects
Provide pain relief
Decrease seizure activity
Lower eye pressure
Improve mood symptoms
Reduce nicotine use and withdrawal

But there’s a major limitation: Very little of this research involves humans.

“Medical researchers understand the value of using the endocannabinoid system to treat a range of conditions,” says Dr. Streem. “But we need more studies to know how to use cannabinoids in a reliable and safe way.”

What should you do instead?

If you’re considering delta-8 THC for symptoms like pain or anxiety, talk with a healthcare provider first. They can help you find safer, more reliable options based on your specific needs.