Cannabis, Marijuana, Hemp, and THC: How Loopholes and Legalization are Creating a Drug 20 Times more Potent than its Predecessor
In the dynamic landscape of cannabis use, understanding the changes in potency is of paramount importance for both consumers and industry stakeholders. The term "cannabis potency" refers to the concentration of active compounds, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), in cannabis products. As regulations evolve and cultivation practices advance, the potency of cannabis has witnessed significant shifts. It is crucial for consumers to be informed about these changes to make responsible choices, considering factors such as THC levels and potential effects. Moreover, industry professionals must stay attuned to potency trends to ensure compliance with regulations and provide consumers with accurate information. This blog post explores the importance of staying knowledgeable about changes in cannabis potency, addressing the implications for consumers' experiences, medical applications, and regulatory compliance.
In the world of cannabis, the terms "cannabis," "marijuana," and "hemp" are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. However, these terms refer to distinct varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant, each with its own unique properties and uses.
Cannabis: "Cannabis" is the overarching term that encompasses both marijuana and hemp (1). It refers to a genus of flowering plants that includes various species, but the two primary ones are Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. Cannabis has been used for medicinal, recreational, and industrial purposes for centuries.
Marijuana: "Marijuana" is a term commonly used to describe cannabis plants with higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis consumption (1). Commonly referred to as Delta-9 THC, marijuana is often for recreational and medicinal purposes due to its psychoactive effects.
Hemp: "Hemp" refers to cannabis plants with low THC content, typically below 0.3% (1). Hemp has been cultivated for industrial uses, including fiber, seeds, and oil. Unlike marijuana, hemp is not valued for its psychoactive effects but rather for its versatility in producing various products such as textiles, paper, and CBD oil. However, hemp is sold under the name Delta-8 THC and Delta-10 THC which can be altered to increase their psychoactive effects.
THC Content: THC is a crucial component that distinguishes marijuana from hemp. Higher THC levels in marijuana contribute to its psychoactive effects, making it sought after for recreational and medicinal use1. In contrast, the low THC content in hemp ensures that it doesn't induce a significant psychoactive experience, aligning with its industrial and nutritional applications.
Legalization:
In the United States, the legalization landscape for marijuana and hemp varies significantly (2). Marijuana (Delta-9) is illegal at the federal level, however, a number of individual states have legalized marijuana for medical use and almost half of US states have legalized marijuana for both medical and recreational use (3). In states where it is legalized for only medical use, individuals need prescriptions to purchase marijuana from dispensaries. The medical threshold to obtain such a prescription varies from state to state, however, subjective complaints like chronic pain, nausea or anxiety can often be enough for it to be granted (4). In addition, prescriptions dictate the amount of marijuana (in weight) that can be purchased per month, but they do not necessarily limit THC percentage and therefore potency of the marijuana.
On the other hand, hemp (Delta-8 and Delta-10) is legal at the federal level. The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, commonly known as the Farm Bill, legalized the cultivation and commercialization of hemp nationwide (2). Therefore, there is no prescription needed to buy Delta-8 or Delta-10 products and they can be sold at gas stations and convenience stores nationwide. Because hemp in its natural state has low THC levels, there should not be a significant psychoactive effect when using it. However, these products are largely unregulated and therefore can be altered with different chemicals or increased THC levels that do cause psychoactive effects (12).
THC Percentages, Alterations and Regulation
The THC percentages in different types of marijuana can vary widely, influencing the potency and effects of each strain. In the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, THC content in marijuana was most commonly 5% or below (5,6). Due to legalization and the idea of consumers that more potent marijuana equals better marijuana, manufacturers have been able to increase THC percentages in their products. Marijuana flower or buds obtained from dispensaries today can range from approximately 15-30% THC. However, the potency of marijuana products extends beyond flower strains to include edibles and concentrates. Edibles, ranging from gummies to baked goods, often contain a measured amount of THC per serving. Potency can vary widely, with some edibles having lower THC percentages, around 5-10%, while others, particularly in the medical market, can reach higher concentrations. A quick Google search can yield advertisements for edibles boasting up to 1000mg (100%) THC (8). Concentrates, such as oils, waxes (dabs), and shatters, are crafted to isolate and intensify cannabinoids like THC. They are renowned for their high potency, with THC percentages that can exceed 90% (7). As edibles and concentrates continue to gain popularity, it becomes crucial for consumers to understand and monitor THC levels, as these products can have more profound and longer-lasting effects compared to traditional flower consumption.
The alteration and adulteration of cannabis products also pose serious risks to consumers, highlighting the need for vigilance within the cannabis industry. Cannabis products, including hemp can be altered through various means, with one common method being the addition of synthetic cannabinoids (2). These synthetic compounds are designed to mimic the effects of natural cannabinoids like THC but often come with unpredictable and potentially harmful side effects. Additionally, cannabis products can also contain substances such as pesticides, molds, or heavy metals, or be laced with even more potent drugs. The production of cannabis concentrates in particular are made using solvents which can be present in the final product11. This practice not only compromises the integrity of the product but also poses significant health hazards to unsuspecting consumers.
The regulation and testing of cannabis products are crucial components of ensuring consumer safety and product quality. In states where marijuana (Delta-9) is legalized, regulatory frameworks are established to govern cultivation, distribution, and consumption. Marijuana is expected to undergo testing to assess its chemical composition, including THC levels, terpene profiles, and the presence of contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and mold prior to being sold at a dispensary. However, testing has proven to be inconsistent both within and among states (12). Variability in testing methodologies and standards among different laboratories can lead to discrepancies in reported cannabinoid levels and contaminant detection. This lack of standardization poses a threat to consumers using cannabis with different THC levels than intended. Further, testing of hemp (Delta-8 and Delta-10) products is even less regulated, leading to the opportunity for altered ingredients or increased THC levels than advertised (2).
The Problem with High-Potency THC
It is paramount for various healthcare practitioners, including physicians, mental health professionals, and addiction specialists, to comprehend the effects of high-potency THC use due to its increasing prevalence. As cannabis products with elevated THC levels become more accessible, understanding the potential physical, mental, and psychological consequences is crucial for providing comprehensive and informed care. Because the onset of distressing symptoms is likely to be physiological or psychological in nature, the THC user (and therefore the practitioner) may not immediately connect the drug use to the presenting problem. This could cause a delay in determining the actual cause and may lead the patient to repeat their use, potentially causing ongoing symptomatology with disastrous consequences.
The use of marijuana with high THC percentages poses potential dangers and risks to individuals in several ways. First, the higher the THC percentage in a marijuana product, the lower the other cannabinoids like terpenes (essential oils) and CBD (Cannabidiol) become13. Terpenes and CBD are non-psychoactive parts of the cannabis plant and are shown to have therapeutic effects on problems like anxiety, seizures, and chronic pain. Further, they also mitigate some of the negative side-effects of THC. So, when higher-potency THC is consumed, the protective and therapeutic parts of the cannabis plant are not there to contribute to the experience – which could actually leave the user with an increase in anxiety or other negative feelings (13). In addition, studies have shown that higher THC amounts do not lead to increased levels of intoxication among users (13). In these studies, users have shown higher levels of THC in their bloodstream, but reported no increased sense of a “high”. It appears that high-potency THC contains most of the risk of THC use, with none of the reported benefits.
Perhaps the most concerning effect of using high-potency THC is the increased chance of developing psychosis, particularly among younger users (ages 25 and under) (9). Studies have shown the High THC levels can lead to an increased risk of adverse reactions, including anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. For individuals with a family history or predisposition to psychiatric disorders, the consumption of marijuana with elevated THC percentages may exacerbate or trigger the onset of symptoms. In addition, studies have shown an increase in suicidal ideation among adolescents and military veterans who use high-potency THC.
Physiological effects of using high-potency THC include the increased use of developing addiction or other cognitive issues (9). Frequent use of high-potency THC will lead to a greater tolerance for use and a need to use a product with a higher potency or to use a product more frequently. This can lead to the development of dependency on the product (addiction). Other cognitive impairment risks associated with its use are confusion, memory loss/impairment, and poor cognitive performance (9). In addition, use of high-potency THC also increases the risk of developing cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (10) (CHS) which is associated with uncontrollable nausea or vomiting that can last for hours or days. In some cases, high-potency THC use has been indicated in fatal heart events.
As cannabis use with increased THC levels becomes more prevalent, it undeniably transforms the landscape of the marijuana drug culture. The higher potency of available strains, especially in concentrates and edibles, has redefined the traditional norms of cannabis consumption. This shift raises concerns about responsible use and potential health risks. The evolving nature of the marijuana drug culture necessitates ongoing conversations, education, and regulatory adaptations to strike a balance between individual freedoms, public health, and safety. Navigating this changing landscape requires a nuanced approach, fostering a collective understanding of the implications associated with increased THC levels. As we continue to explore the diverse facets of cannabis use, it becomes imperative to prioritize informed decision-making, responsible consumption, and an inclusive dialogue that acknowledges the complexities of the modern marijuana drug culture.
References:
1. Hemp vs. Marijuana vs. Cannabis: What's the difference? - CBD Web
2. Hemp Industry 2024: State and Federal Changes | McGlinchey Stafford PLLC
3. Where Is Marijuana Legal? A Guide to Marijuana Legalization (usnews.com)
4. Conditions Treated by Medical Marijuana and How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card (webmd.com)
5. Is cannabis today really much more potent than 50 years ago? | New Scientist
6. Cannabis Potency Data | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)
7. Cannabis (Marijuana) Concentrates DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)
8. 10 Extremely Potent Cannabis Edibles | High Times
10. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)
11. Cannabis Contaminants: Regulating Solvents, Microbes, and Metals in Legal Weed - PMC (nih.gov)
12. Advancing Quality Control in the Cannabis and Hemp Industries (genengnews.com)
13. What You Should Know About High Potency THC In Cannabis - GoodRx
