Thc chemical formula
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Understanding the Chemical Formula of THC
Introduction to THC and Its Variants
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound found in the Cannabis plant. It exists in several isomeric forms, with Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) being the most well-known. However, Delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC) has gained popularity recently due to its legal status and perceived milder effects2.
Chemical Structure of Δ8-THC
The chemical formula of Δ8-THC is C21H30O2. This structure is similar to that of Δ9-THC, with slight differences in the placement of a double bond. Both compounds share the same molecular formula but differ in the position of the double bond in the cyclohexene ring, which is at the 8th carbon in Δ8-THC and the 9th carbon in Δ9-THC1.
Impurities in Commercial Δ8-THC Products
Commercially available Δ8-THC products often contain various impurities. A study identified several impurities in Δ8-THC distillates, including Δ4,8-iso-tetrahydrocannabinol, Δ4-iso-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ8-cis-iso-tetrahydrocannabinol, among others1. These impurities arise due to the lack of regulation in the synthesis process, leading to contamination and inconsistent product quality2.
Analytical Techniques for Identifying THC and Its Impurities
To identify and characterize these impurities, researchers use advanced spectroscopic methods such as 1D and 2D NMR, LC-MS, and GC-MS. These techniques allow for the precise determination of the chemical structures of both Δ8-THC and its impurities1.
Conclusion
The chemical formula of Δ8-THC is C21H30O2, similar to that of Δ9-THC but with a different double bond position. Commercial Δ8-THC products often contain various impurities due to unregulated synthesis processes. Advanced analytical techniques are essential for identifying and characterizing these impurities to ensure product safety and consistency. Future research and regulatory measures are needed to address these issues and mitigate the risks associated with Δ8-THC use1 2.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Isolation and Characterization of Impurities in Commercially Marketed Δ8-THC Products.
This study identified 11 impurities in commercial 8-THC products, including 8-THCV, as well as other naturally occurring cannabinoids, as potential contaminants.
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol: A Scoping Review and Commentary.
Delta-8 THC is a less potent psychoactive substance, but its legality, accessibility, and marketing make it a potential risk to public health and safety.
Systematic ReviewIdentification of a new cannabidiol n-hexyl homolog in a medicinal cannabis variety with an antinociceptive activity in mice: cannabidihexol
Cannabidihexol (CBDH) is a new phytocannabinoid with antinociceptive activity in mice, filling the gap between pentyl and heptyl homologs of CBD and 9-THC.
Rigorous JournalΔ8-THC: Legal Status, Widespread Availability, and Safety Concerns.
8-THC products are widely available over-the-counter in the U.S., but their legal status is questionable and their widespread availability has led to health concerns.
Determination of the relative percentage distribution of THCA and Δ(9)-THC in herbal cannabis seized in Austria - Impact of different storage temperatures on stability.
High storage temperatures lead to rapid and complete decomposition of THCA to (9)-THC in cannabis samples, while low temperatures show only slight or no changes in the percentage distribution.
Changes in delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations in cannabis over time: systematic review and meta-analysis.
THC concentrations in international cannabis markets increased from 1970 to 2017, while cannabidiol (CBD) remained stable, with greater increases in cannabis resin than herbal cannabis.
Meta-AnalysisRigorous Journal
Highly CitedPhytocannabinoids: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
Cannabinoids, specifically THC, show potential analgesic effects and show potential as an alternative to opioid abuse, with potential side effects like anxiety and impaired memory.
Systematic ReviewTHC And Cannabinoids: Chemistry, Methods Of Detection And Stability In Biological Samples
THC and its metabolites have long half-lives and are found in adipose tissue, making detection up to over a month after intake possible using blood, urine, hair, and saliva as reference matrices.
Systematic ReviewBlood cannabinoids. I. Absorption of THC and formation of 11-OH-THC and THCCOOH during and after smoking marijuana.
THC absorption during marijuana smoking leads to rapid peak levels of 11-OH-THC and slow peak levels of THCCOOH, impacting understanding of performance-impairing effects and aiding forensic interpretation of cannabinoid blood levels.
RCTHighly CitedCharacterizing and Quantifying Extrahepatic Metabolism of (−)-Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Its Psychoactive Metabolite, (±)-11-Hydroxy-Δ9-THC (11-OH-THC)
THC and its psychoactive metabolite 11-OH-THC are metabolized in the intestinal and fetal liver, but not in adult lung, first trimester, or second trimester.
In Vitro Study