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Abstract
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Background
Recreational use of Delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8-THC, Δ8-THC) has become more common, as are emergency room visits and lasting associated psychiatric conditions associated with Delta-8 (Radwan et al., 2021) (Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids 2022). It is essential to recognize the psychoactive effects of Delta-8 as recent exposures are increasing rapidly (Volkow et al., 2014). Physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for psychosis in relation to use of this compound. We present two cases, a 20-year-old and a 35-year-old, in whom the effects of Delta-8-THC were dramatic and consequential, leading to severe psychosis and lasting depression and suicidal ideation.
Conclusions
There has been a remarkable increase in the number of emergency department admissions in our hospital and many hospitals that have involved the use of Delta-8-THC. We present these cases to increase physician awareness of Delta-8 (as well as slang terms to describe it like "marijuana-lite" and "diet-weed") and other legal THC derivatives and the potential side effects so that we can better educate patients and families.
Language: en |