Delta-8 THC: The lesser known cannabinoid that FarmaceuticalRX is taking on

FarmaceuticalRX 500mg cartridges containing Delta-8 include GG4, Honey, Sunset Sherbert and Pineapple Kush.

Photo by Matt Dayak

Our friends at FarmaceuticalRX selected delta-8-THC as their “first, uncommon-cannabinoid-specific product line, due to delta-8-THC’s unique effects and applications.” Here’s the research and science behind that decision.

Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8-THC) is an analogue to the better-known delta-9-THC, with a slightly different chemical structure that can result in altered medical properties. The National Cancer Institute Drug Dictionary recognizes that delta-8-THC has multiple beneficial effects, including analgesia, appetite stimulation, and neuroprotective properties. The central nervous system contains an abundance of CB1 receptors on which delta-8-THC acts, although it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors through the body.

The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) notes that delta-8-THC exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than its cousin, delta-9-THC. Researchers have estimated the potency to be ~2/3 that of delta-9-THC. This is likely achieved by differential binding to the CB1 receptors, as well as interactions with other potential receptors and neuroactive pathways. Given the lower potency of delta-8-THC, this leads to a different cognitive profile for those who use it. People who have used it describe that they are more clear-headed when compared to delta-9-THC products, with less impact on concentration and less anxiety, while still retaining its medicinal properties (ex: relief of pain, nausea, etc.). As such, products containing delta-8-THC may be a pathway to relief of symptoms in patients unable to tolerate significant quantities of delta-9-THC or those who prefer a less psychoactive profile.

The National Cancer Institute Drug Dictionary defines delta-8-THC as: An analogue of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with antiemetic, anxiolytic, appetite-stimulating, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties. Delta-8-THC binds to the cannabinoid G-protein coupled receptor CB1, located in the central nervous system. NCBI’s MedGen and PubChem further note: This agent exhibits a lower psychotropic potency than delta-9-THC, the primary form of THC found in cannabis. Most researchers estimate psychotropic potency as being 2/3 that of THC. This lower psycho-activity creates effects described by many as more clear- headed, less likely to affect concentration and less anxious than delta-9-THC, while still retaining desired medicinal benefits (relief of pain, nausea, anxiety, etc.). While delta-8-THC differs chemically from delta-9-THC by only a few atomic bonds, it offers a desirable psychoactive profile attractive to patients/consumers.

FARMACUETICALRX’s LIVE DELTA-8-THC PRODUCT PLATFORM

Delta-8-THC exists naturally in cannabis, although in low concentration. Through advanced biochemical techniques, delta-9-THC can be converted into delta-8-THC without adding artificial components or harmful byproducts. FARMACEUTICALRX has selected delta-8-THC for its first, uncommon-cannabinoid-specific product line, due to delta-8-THC’s unique effects and applications. We are launching our delta-8-THC product platform, “Live Delta-8,” first with distillate cartridges that combine delta-8-THC with live, strain-specific terpenes, providing unique products with optimal terpene-profiles and full spectrum properties. Additional products in this line will contain combinations of delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC with live terpenes, depending on the focus of treatment. FARMACEUTICALRX’s biotech innovation company, FRX Innovations, is focused on research & development. Through scientific and clinical research, we hope to advance the understanding and benefits of delta-8-THC as well as other cannabis-derived compounds.

AVAILABLE RESEARCH AND POTENTIAL FUTURE RESEARCH

There have been a number of studies examining the chemical and pharmacodynamic properties of delta-8-THC. Additionally, there is research demonstrating the potential clinical and therapeutic impact. Some of that research is summarized below.

Anti-Emesis

The most cited study of delta-8-THC was conducted in 1995 by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in conjunction with Shaare Zedek Hospital, Bikur Holim Hospital, and Hebrew University in Jerusalem. In this study, delta-8 THC was administered to eight children, ranging from 3 to 13 years of age, with various hematologic cancers. These children experienced chemotherapy-associated nausea that was previously unmanageable. Each child received delta-8-THC treatments starting two hours prior to each session of chemotherapy and continued every six hours for 24 hours. Treatment with delta-8-THC completely eliminated the chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting in these patients, at higher doses than adults typically receive of delta-9-THC, and with negligible side-effects (including psychoactive effects).

Appetite

A 2004 study by Avraham et al. found that low doses of delta-8-THC stimulated appetite in mice.

Cognitive/Neuroprotective Properties

This same 2004 study by Avraham et al. also found “a tendency (of delta-8-THC) to improve cognitive function.” In 1987 another study using mouse models (HL Tripathi et al.) found that Delta-8-THC increased acetylcholine (Ach) levels in the cortex and hippocampus, and decreased acetylcholine turnover in hippocampus. This is relevant to future research, as Alzheimer’s disease (the most prevalent form of dementia), is associated with declining levels of Ach in the brain. A separate study in 1994 (Mechoulam et al.) found that oral delta-8-THC significantly reduced the incidence and severity of neurological deficit in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in rats, possibly through effects on corticosterone secretion.

Pain and Inflammation

A 2018 study by Thapa et al. found that topical delta-8-THC decreased corneal pain and inflammation in an experimental mouse model, with effects most likely mediated through CB1R. GI Function: A 2004 review in the BJP (Hornby and Prouty), concludes “The beneficial effects of CB1R activation in animal models include reduction of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations, increased compliance of the proximal stomach, reduced acid secretion, reduction of GI transit, reduced intestinal fluid secretion in response to secretogogues and reduced large intestinal propulsive activity are all aspects that could be beneficial in functional bowel disorders such as IBS. However, administration of CB1R agonists to patients would be associated with CBS adverse effects due to the psychotropic actions.” Multiple other studies in patients with IBD have demonstrated that cannabis can result in decreased symptoms and fewer medications needed. Delta-8-THC, which also binds to the CB1 receptor, may be useful in that it can provide the gastrointestinal benefits with a decreased psychotropic profile.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD PATIENTS KNOW ABOUT OUR DELTA-8-THC PRODUCTS?

Delta-8-THC’s potential clinical impact, as well as mild psychotropic profile, make it a valuable cannabinoid. To provide the safest product possible, we add absolutely NO diluents, preservatives, or additives, and use advanced biochemical processes to accurately combine delta-8-THC with other cannabinoids and live-cannabis terpenes. This enables customers to know exactly what they’re getting and to trust in the consistency of the product.

*** FARMACUETICALRX HAS PATENTS PENDING ON OUR LIVE DELTA-8 PRODUCT PLATFORM