Insights on American Hemp-Derived Product Usage

Core Concepts

Over one fifth of American adults reported using hemp-derived cannabinoids, with concerns raised about product safety and regulation.

Abstract

The research provides insights into the usage of hemp-derived cannabinoids among American adults, highlighting concerns about product safety and regulation. Key points include:

• 25.2% of adults reported using emerging cannabinoids, including CBD and delta-8 THC.
• Concerns exist about the lack of regulation for these products, posing risks of unknown contaminants.
• Usage rates for other hemp-derived products like CBG and CBN were lower.
• Delta-8 THC, known for psychotropic effects, raised particular concerns due to associated adverse effects.
• Legalization of hemp cultivation led to a surge in hemp-derived products without federal regulation.
• Medical cannabis legalization was linked to lower odds of delta-8 THC usage.
• FDA advisory highlighted issues with mislabeling and contaminants in cannabinoid products.
• Patients often view nonpsychotropic cannabinoids as natural remedies, despite concerns about psychoactive effects.
• Study authors received grants from various entities, including government and research organizations.

Stats

25.2% of adults reported past-year use of any emerging cannabinoid, including delta-8 THC.
11.9% reported using delta-8 THC, 5.2% reported using CBG, and 4.4% reported using CBN.
Residents in states where medical cannabis is legal had 56% lower odds of using delta-8 THC.

Quotes

"If someone is picking up one of these products to use medically, and it ends up having heavy metals and pesticides and it doesn't even have the active ingredient in it, that is not good." - Kevin F. Boehnke, PhD
"My official response to patients who ask me for my opinion is that I don't have enough scientific background to give an opinion: If you think it helps you and you have no side effects, then I'm not going to tell you to stop." - Alice Kuo, MD, PhD

Key Insights Distilled From

One Fifth of Americans Report Use of Hemp-Derived Products

by Brittany at www.medscape.com 12-18-2023

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/one-fifth-americans-report-use-hemp-derived-products-2023a1000vqw

Deeper Inquiries

How can the regulation of hemp-derived products be improved to ensure consumer safety?

Regulating hemp-derived products to ensure consumer safety involves implementing strict quality control measures. One way to improve regulation is by establishing federal standards for testing ingredients for safety and verifying the accuracy of ingredient labels. This would help prevent the presence of harmful contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides in products. Additionally, creating a regulatory framework that mandates third-party testing and certification of hemp-derived products can enhance consumer trust and safety. By holding manufacturers accountable for the quality and accuracy of their products, consumers can have confidence in the safety and efficacy of hemp-derived cannabinoids.

What are the ethical implications of patients using cannabinoid products without full scientific understanding?

Patients using cannabinoid products without a full scientific understanding may face ethical dilemmas related to informed consent and potential risks. Without comprehensive knowledge of the effects, interactions, and potential side effects of these products, patients may unknowingly put themselves at risk of adverse outcomes. Healthcare providers also face ethical challenges in providing guidance on products with limited scientific evidence, balancing patient autonomy with the duty to promote patient safety. Moreover, the marketing of cannabinoid products as "natural" without clear scientific backing raises ethical concerns about transparency and informed decision-making. Ensuring patients have access to accurate information and promoting open discussions about the limitations of current scientific knowledge are essential to navigating these ethical implications.

How might the legalization of cannabis impact the usage patterns of emerging cannabinoids like delta-8 THC?

The legalization of cannabis could influence the usage patterns of emerging cannabinoids like delta-8 THC in several ways. In states where medical cannabis is legal, residents may have lower odds of using delta-8 THC due to the availability of regulated and tested cannabis products. Conversely, in states where recreational marijuana is legal, individuals may also exhibit lower odds of using delta-8 THC, potentially due to the accessibility of psychoactive cannabinoids through legal channels. The unintended consequence of cannabis prohibition promoting delta-8 THC use suggests that legalization may lead to a shift in consumer preferences towards regulated cannabis products over potentially risky emerging cannabinoids. As cannabis legalization continues to evolve, monitoring changes in usage patterns and addressing public health concerns related to emerging cannabinoids will be crucial in shaping future regulatory policies.