THC-O Acetate—A New Weed Derivate Causes Psychedelic Boom

In the American states where marijuana is still not legal, a potent newcomer, the cannabinoid THC-O acetate, entered the weed scene in the past few months. 

Its increasing availability, the lack of regulation, but most of all, its 300% higher potency than THC are making this compound a raising concern for authorities. 

So, what is THC-O acetate?

THC-O acetate, or psychedelic THC, is a cannabinoid analog of THC and a precursor to delta-8 THC (remember when delta-8-THC hit the cannabis market?). THC-O can be manufactured out of THC, CBD, or delta-8 THC.

What are the effects of this THC acetate?

This semi-synthetic cannabinoid is two to three times more potent than delta-9 THC and about five times more potent when compared to delta-8 THC.

Users report THC-O as a potent psychedelic, borderline hallucinogenic agent, with effects that last significantly longer than regular THC. Also, they describe a more introspective kind of “being stoned.”

Is THC-O acetate legal?

Some manufacturers argue that THC-O is legal because they synthesize it out of hemp plants, which are allowed on a federal level according to the Farm Bill of 2018. 

So, for now, just like delta-8, before many states like Oregon introduced specific regulations, THC-O profits from this legal loophole. 

And while others debate that under the so-called Federal Analogue Act of 1986, both delta-8 and THC-O are illegal analogs of delta-9 THC, as of now, there’s no accord on this question. 

How safe is THC-O?

Well, nobody knows yet. Being as potent as it is, it may cause another wave of ER scromiting visits or yet another delta-8-THC-like poison calling in Virginia.

In addition to the lack of safety data, as there are no quality regulations, the purity of THC-O-infused products is questionable. 

However, one thing is sure, for now, both manufacturers and users take full advantage of this “honeymoon” period before someone tries to ban it.

About the Author

Marija Kovachevska

Marija is a content writer, biochemist, and communications associate for several nonprofit organizations. After earning her bachelor’s, she worked as a scientific writer before engaging in the world of nonprofits—first as an English translator and an activist, and later, as head of communications. In content writing, she finds the perfect stimulus for her curiosity and aptitude for research, as well as a way to deploy her linguistic creativity for the purpose of better understanding.

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