In a recently revealed letter, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has declared that delta-8 THC, when synthesized from CBD, is federally illegal. The letter, written by DEA's Drug & Chemical Evaluation Section Chief Terrence Boos in 2021, was made public by attorney Shane Pennington through his “On Drugs” Substack. This announcement clarifies the agency's position on the scheduling status of delta-8 THC and its legality when derived from hemp-derived CBD.
It's important to note that trace amounts of delta-8 THC can naturally occur in cannabis, making it legal if extracted directly from the plant.[0] The DEA confirmed this in 2021.[1] However, most consumer delta-8 products on the market are made using delta-8 THC synthesized from hemp-derived CBD.[0] The DEA considers these synthetic cannabinoids to be illegal, despite the fact that they are widely available and have seen limited enforcement in the market.[2] Some states have taken independent steps to ban or restrict these substances.[2]
The risks associated with vaping CBD or cannabis, including delta-8 THC, are a cause for concern, particularly among young people. Dr. Diane Tanaka, the medical director of the Teenage and Young Adult Health Center at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, highlights that young people often underestimate the risks associated with vaping these substances.
A study revealed that 92% of CBD products contain less CBD than advertised, with only 8% having concentrations within 10% of the advertised strength.[3] This raises concerns about the manufacturing standards and quality control of CBD-containing consumer products. Improved regulation of these products may be necessary to ensure consumer safety and accurate labeling.
The use of electronic cigarettes among students has also raised concerns. According to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 1 in 5 students who use electronic cigarettes reported vaping CBD.[4] It is worth noting that CBD does not produce the same psychoactive effects as THC. However, the long-term health effects of vaping CBD, as well as the potential risks associated with the habit of vaping itself, are still being studied.[5]
The appointment of Wendy McMahon as President and CEO of CBS News and Stations and CBS Media Ventures has also made headlines. McMahon, a 30-year CBS News veteran, will now have top editorial oversight for the unit across all platforms. This newly created position elevates her to lead CBS News' entire broadcast and streaming operations, as well as local TV stations and syndication programming.[6]
Overall, the DEA's declaration regarding the legality of delta-8 THC synthesized from CBD has significant implications for the CBD industry. It underscores the need for improved regulation and quality control of CBD products to ensure consumer safety. Additionally, the concerns surrounding the use of electronic cigarettes, particularly among young people, highlight the importance of educating individuals about the potential risks associated with vaping CBD and cannabis.
0. “Delta-8 THC Derived from CBD is Illegal, According to DEA Email …” www.ganjapreneur.com, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.ganjapreneur.com/dea-confirmed-to-believe-delta-8-thc-synthesized-from-cbd-is-federally-illegal/
1. “DEA Considers Delta-8 THC Products Federally Illegal When …” www.marijuanamoment.net, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.marijuanamoment.net/dea-considers-delta-8-thc-products-federally-illegal-when-synthesized-from-cbd-official-says-in-newly-revealed-email/
2. “State Marijuana Regulators Tell Congress To Focus On More Than …” www.marijuanamoment.net, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.marijuanamoment.net/state-marijuana-regulators-tell-congress-to-focus-on-more-than-just-cbd-by-regulating-other-cannabinoids-like-delta-8-thc/
3. “CBD manufacturers have a responsibility to label products correctly …” spnews.com, 19 Aug. 2023, https://spnews.com/cbd-manufacturers-have-a-responsibility-to-label-products-co/
4. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens | Health | keysnews …” www.keysnews.com, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.keysnews.com/lifestyles/health/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/article_df7319b3-d184-52a8-a90d-882ec2a26055.html
5. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens | News …” www.tiogapublishing.com, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.tiogapublishing.com/news/nation/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/article_e3c8e0a4-607a-577e-b8fc-0b53267b8e0d.html
6. “CBS announces Wendy McMahon to lead news in wake of Neeraj …” www.wsiltv.com, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.wsiltv.com/news/consumer/cbs-announces-wendy-mcmahon-to-lead-news-in-wake-of-neeraj-khemlani-stepping-down/article_bc595d07-2a01-5e37-bb56-63126a3a19c3.html
