Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2025

Preclinical Model of Prenatal Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure to Assess Its Impact on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes
Published on: February 28, 2025
Portrayal of Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on YouTube
Sofia E Olsson1, Vishaldeep K Sekhon2, Cassidy R LoParco3,4
1Anne Burnett Marion School of Medicine, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas, USA.
Background:
Following the United States (U.S.) Federal Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, many retailers began selling intoxicating cannabis products, including Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as "hemp," claiming that it provided a legal loophole to do so. This qualitative study assessed Delta-8 THC messaging on YouTube, the world's second-most visited website.
Methods:
In 2022, two researchers searched the terms "Delta 8" and "Delta-8" on YouTube; 47 unique videos were identified. A combination of inductive and deductive coding was used. The larger team discussed the coding after every ten videos and reached a consensus.
Results:
Four overarching themes were identified related to Delta-8 THC: reasons to use, how to use, effects of using, and safety/harm reduction. Content creators used Delta-8 THC for its alleged federal legality, easy accessibility, and the psychoactive effects which they described as a more mild, euphoric high than 'traditional' cannabis. Some mentioned that the quality of the Delta-8 THC products may vary based on the purchase location, with online typically being favored over gas stations. Few videos were age-restricted.
Conclusions:
This study provides an overview of public attitudes and beliefs regarding Delta-8 THC, as discussed on YouTube. Findings suggest media campaigns to correct misinformation and other prevention efforts are important.
Related Concept Videos
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Cannabinoids
Two synthetic agonists of THC,...
Hallucinogens and Psychedelics
Marijuana, derived from the dried leaves and flowers of the hemp plant, contains...
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Opioid Receptors: Overview
An Overview of Psychoactive Drugs
Stimulants such as cocaine, amphetamines, and nicotine enhance brain activity, leading to increased alertness, attention, and energy. These drugs typically raise heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. While they can induce feelings of euphoria, their misuse can result in severe health...
¹³C NMR: Distortionless Enhancement by Polarization Transfer (DEPT)

