The study, published in the journal JAMA, highlights the accessibility and appeal of delta-8 products to teenagers, raising potential public health risks.

Delta-8 THC, an isomer of delta-9 THC found in cannabis sativa, acts on the brain in a similar way but with reduced potency and fewer legal restrictions. The study found that unlike marijuana, there are no age restrictions for purchasing delta-8 in most states where it is legal. Its availability in various forms, such as gummies, chocolate, vaping cartridges, and even breakfast cereals, contributes to its appeal among young people.

The researchers analyzed data from the Monitoring the Future in-school survey, which assessed adolescent behavior and attitudes across the United States. In a sample of 2,186 12th-grade students, 11.4% admitted to using delta-8 THC within the past year, while 30.4% reported using marijuana, despite its illegal status for teens. Of the 295 students who used delta-8, the majority reported using it repeatedly, with nearly 17% using it at least 40 times. Furthermore, close to 91% of delta-8 users also reported using marijuana.

The study found higher delta-8 usage among teenagers in the South and Midwest regions of the country, as well as in states where adult-use marijuana is prohibited. White teenagers were more likely to use delta-8 and marijuana compared to other racial or ethnic groups. Additionally, slightly more boys than girls reported using these substances.

Experts expressed concern over the findings, with Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, calling attention to the accessibility of delta-8 to teens and the potential negative impacts on the developing adolescent brain. The study's lead author, Dr. Adam Leventhal, noted that the 11% prevalence rate of delta-8 use among high school seniors was higher than expected and emphasized the need for more research and education on the risks associated with these drugs.

The study has some limitations, including the absence of data from every state and a focus on enrolled students, potentially underestimating delta-8 usage among younger teens. An editorial alongside the study warns that the unregulated proliferation of delta-8 represents a potential threat to public health, with concerns that future cannabis products may have more severe consequences.

In response to increasing worries, at least 17 states have banned delta-8, with seven more implementing severe restrictions as of November, according to the National Cannabis Industry Association. However, scientists still lack a comprehensive understanding of delta-8's effects, particularly on young, developing bodies. Research on marijuana has shown negative impacts on memory, attention, and learning in teens.

As the FDA does not regulate delta-8, the exact composition of individual products remains unclear. Disturbingly, calls to America's Poison Centers about delta-8 products increased by 82% from 2021 to 2022, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and regulation of these substances.

With the growing popularity and accessibility of delta-8 among high school seniors, it is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and parents to address these concerns through comprehensive regulation, education, and support for those in need of treatment for substance use disorders and mental health care.