Unregulated THC

Delta-8 THC is an unregulated psychoactive compound that is sold in Oak Park. It is chemically very similar to delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and produces similar feelings of euphoria and relaxation. The compound is extracted and concentrated from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).

Delta-8 THC exists in a legal loophole because of how it is derived and produced. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived compounds at the federal level, but did not explicitly address delta-8 THC. Because it is derived and synthesized from legal hemp, many states have not regulated or banned delta-8 THC products. This lack of clear regulation has allowed delta-8 THC products to proliferate. However, individual states are now acting to either restrict or ban the sale of delta-8 THC.

Delta-8 THC products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use in any context.

Delta-8 THC products often involve the use of potentially harmful chemicals to create the concentrations of delta-8 THC claimed in the marketplace.

The psychoactive and intoxicating effects of delta-8 THC may lead to an increase of impaired driving and disordered use.

Many delta-8 THC products are labeled and packaged like popular snacks and candy (gummies, chocolates, cookies, candies, etc.), which increases their appeal among children. Because delta-8 THC is unregulated, there are no restrictions on children of any age buying these products in Oak Park.

There have been increased calls to poison control centers and hospital admissions, for both adults and children, after consumption of delta-8 THC products. The code for delta-8 THC was added to the national poison control centers on Jan. 1, 2021, and between that date and Feb. 28, 2022, more than 2,360 exposure cases were reported. Of those cases, 40% involved unintentional exposure, and 82% of those exposures affected pediatric patients.

Click here for a PBS Nova video detailing delta 8-THC.