THC-O-Acetate: Scarce Evidence for a Psychedelic Cannabinoid

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Psychology
• Cannabinoid Research

Background:

• Semi-synthetic cannabinoids, such as THC-O-acetate (THC-Oac), are gaining attention.
• Claims suggest THC-Oac may induce psychedelic effects, but scientific examination is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• This study is the first to investigate the claim that THC-Oac produces psychedelic effects.
• To assess the subjective experiential profile of THC-Oac consumption.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was developed for THC-Oac consumers, incorporating elements from validated cannabis and psychedelic use questionnaires.
• The Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ) was included to quantify psychedelic experience characteristics.

Main Results:

• Participants reported low to moderate cognitive distortions and minimal visual or hallucinatory experiences.
• THC-Oac consumption did not meet the threshold for a complete mystical experience across all MEQ dimensions.
• Individuals with prior classic psychedelic use reported significantly lower MEQ scores.

Conclusions:

• The study found no evidence that THC-Oac produces psychedelic effects.
• Reported psychedelic experiences may be influenced by user expectations or product contaminants.
• Previous psychedelic use was associated with diminished subjective experiences of THC-Oac.