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Last verified: 17 days ago

Delta-9-THC

Also known as: Δ9-THC, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, THC, dronabinol

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Psychoactive cannabis compound with limited clinical pain and tic data; significant safety and legal concerns.

  • What it does

    Delta-9-THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Clinical studies in the provided data suggest it may reduce pain in a dose-dependent way when inhaled at low doses (0.5–1 mg), and a...

  • Evidence quality

    Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.

  • Clinical dose

    No established dose from provided studies

  • Found in

    Sunday Scaries

See full breakdown ↓ Methodology →

What the Science Says

Delta-9-THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Clinical studies in the provided data suggest it may reduce pain in a dose-dependent way when inhaled at low doses (0.5–1 mg), and a small uncontrolled trial found it reduced tic severity in adults with Tourette's syndrome over 12 weeks. It works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, influencing pain signaling, mood, and motor control.

What It Doesn't Do

Not proven to treat anxiety, depression, or cancer in humans based on the provided studies. Not a safe or regulated supplement — it is a controlled substance in most jurisdictions. Don't assume it's safer than other cannabinoids just because it's 'natural.' No evidence it improves athletic performance or builds muscle.

Evidence-Based Benefits

Low-dose inhaled THC (0.5–1 mg) produces dose-dependent pain relief in chronic neuropathic pain patients.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 0.5–1 mg inhaled

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 32445190

Oral THC-CBD combination reduced tic severity by over 20% in adults with refractory Tourette's syndrome.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: Up to 10 mg/day THC (combined with CBD)

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 34340527

Absorption & Bioavailability

Variable. Inhaled THC absorbs rapidly with peak plasma levels within minutes. Oral THC absorbs slowly with peak levels around 4 hours post-ingestion in primate data. Oral bioavailability is low and highly variable due to first-pass metabolism.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Delta-9-THC is a Schedule I controlled substance federally in the US — its presence in supplements is illegal and unregulated
  • Psychoactive effects including intoxication, anxiety, and cognitive impairment are well-documented risks
  • Vaping concentrated THC formulations carries risk of pulmonary toxicants including ketene formation
  • Use during pregnancy is associated with adverse fetal neurodevelopmental outcomes
  • Semi-synthetic cannabinoid analogs (e.g., HHC) sold alongside THC products have caused severe adverse events including rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury
  • 113 products registered in NIH DSLD suggests widespread unregulated commercial use despite legal restrictions

Products Containing Delta-9-THC

See how Delta-9-THC is used in these analyzed products:

Sunday Scaries

Supplement

Overhyped
View all product reviews →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Delta-9-THC do?

Psychoactive cannabis compound with limited clinical pain and tic data; significant safety and legal concerns.

What is the effective dose of Delta-9-THC?

No established dose from provided studies

Is Delta-9-THC safe?

Delta-9-THC is a Schedule I controlled substance federally in the US — its presence in supplements is illegal and unregulated

What doesn't Delta-9-THC do?

Not proven to treat anxiety, depression, or cancer in humans based on the provided studies.

Research Sources

  • PubMed
  • NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25