With the growing interest from Virginia residents for medical marijuana, it’s no wonder people are getting excited and wanting to try the many different products on the market.
However, some of the products may not be what you think. It’s a good idea to educate yourself on some of these so you know what to look out for and consider when you shop your local dispensary products.
Among these products is the infamous delta 8. In this article, we will tackle these products and inform you of some important information you may not be aware of.
What Is Delta 8?
Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or delta 8 THC, is a psychoactive substance found in sativa cannabis plants. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids that are naturally produced by the cannabis plant.
The Dangers of Delta 8
Delta 8 has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use whatsoever. These products are marketed in a way that may put public health at risk, using deceiving wording and false claims.
According to the FDA website, they are already aware of the concerns surrounding these products, including formulation of the product, labeling, and the question mark when it comes to what else these products may contain.
Many consumers associate “hemp” with the absence of THC, so they think products labeled as hemp will not get them high. Many of these delta 8 products are labeled as such.
Delta 8 companies are also labeling these products as intended for medical or therapeutic use. These products have not been approved for medicinal use.
Not only is mislabeling and selling these products illegal, but it also puts consumers at risk for safety and health concerns. This merchandise has not been approved for medicinal use.
Adverse Event Reports
The FDA has also received many reports of adverse reactions to the delta 8 pens. In fact, in less than 2 years, the FDA has received over 100 accounts of adverse effects caused by this drug.
According to the FDA’s website:
77% involved adults, 8% involved pediatric patients less than 18 years of age, and 15% did not report age
55% required intervention (e.g., evaluation by emergency medical services) or hospital admission
66% described adverse events after ingestion of delta-8 THC-containing food products (e.g., brownies, gummies)
Adverse events included, but were not limited to: hallucinations, vomiting, tremor, anxiety, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness
Additionally, national poison control centers received almost 2,500 reports of exposure cases regarding delta 8 in a little over a year.
58% involved adults, 41% involved pediatric patients less than 18 years of age, and 1% did not report age
40% involved unintentional exposure to delta-8 THC and 82% of these unintentional exposures affected pediatric patients
70% required health care facility evaluation, of which 8% resulted in admission to a critical care unit; 45% of patients requiring health care facility evaluation were pediatric patients
One pediatric case was coded with a medical outcome of death
Delta 8 Uses Many More Harmful Chemicals
According to the FDA website “The final delta 8 THC product may have potentially harmful by-products (contaminants) due to the chemicals used in the process, and there is uncertainty with respect to other potential contaminants that may be present or produced depending on the composition of the starting raw material. If consumed or inhaled, these chemicals, including some used to make (synthesize) delta 8 THC and the by-products created during synthesis, can be harmful.”
The FDA also states their concern with the processing of delta 8 regarding “uncontrolled or unsanitary conditions.”
Why Use Delta 8 When You Have Safe & Legal Access to Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana is just that- medicinal. It has clear health benefits, and it would not be legal in 37 states if it was unsafe and unpredictable like delta 8 products.
There is no reason to put your health in delta 8’s hands when you can find relief in tested and proven medical marijuana. People are becoming more conscious of what they are putting in their bodies, and your medication should be no exception.
Find Out If Medical Marijuana Could Benefit You
Join the tens of thousands of Virginians in exploring the benefits of medical marijuana today. Schedule an appointment with us online, and you can get approved from the comfort of your own home!
If you reserve an appointment today, you will save $25!
We’ll even refund the total appointment cost if you and your doctor conclude that medical marijuana isn’t right for you. You have nothing to lose, and a world of potential health benefits to gain!
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Virginia Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness
safely and conveniently through increased access to MMJ. Our focus on
education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by
providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (888) 633-5808, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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