They’re commonly used as a performance-enhancing drug by athletes. Delta-8-THC, also known as “delta-8,” is an active metabolite of the cannabis compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Delta-8 has been shown to be even more potent than delta-9, and it accounts for most of the psychoactive effects of THC. As a result, athletes and other users have begun using it as a way to get faster and stronger while avoiding detection. But how strong is delta-8? Let’s take a closer look at the science behind this strongest delta 8, so you can make informed decisions regarding its use.
How Strong a Delta-8 Is Depending on the Test
For most doping tests, a delta-8 will be detected at 50 ng/mL. That is twice the concentration you would find in a blood sample from an athlete who wasn’t using it. That said, keep in mind that every test is different, and every lab has different protocols. That means there’s no guarantee that delta-8 will be caught at that level or higher. Some tests may have a lower threshold. Other tests may have a higher one. It is possible to boost your chances of passing the test by using a detox drink like Cleansed or a berry or coffee bean supplement like Boost.
The Science Behind Delta-8
First off, let’s quickly talk about what delta-9 is. Delta-9 is the chemical responsible for the majority of cannabis’ psychoactive effects. It’s responsible for the “high” that many users experiences, as well as other positive benefits like relief from pain and anxiety. Delta-9 can be found in several varieties of cannabis. It can also be extracted and used in the form of a synthetic drug called dronabinol. Delta-9 is metabolized in the liver by CYP2C (cytochrome p450 2C) to form Delta 8 Gummies.
Delta-8 is then metabolized again in the liver by CYP450 1A to form 11-hydroxy-delta-8-THC. Both of these metabolites have a high affinity for CB1 receptors. In fact, they have a higher affinity than delta-9 itself. That’s why people who use delta-8 experience even more psychoactive effects than people who only use delta-9.
Side Effects of Delta-8
In high doses, delta-8 may produce side effects similar to those of delta-9, including dizziness, dry mouth, and anxiety. The more serious side effects of delta-8 include increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and the potential for a seizure. Higher doses of delta-8 can also result in short-term memory loss, temporary loss of control of movement, feeling overly tired, and a loss of consciousness.
But perhaps the most dangerous side effect of delta-8 is its ability to stay in your body for a long time. Tests designed to detect delta-9 metabolize out of your blood after 72 hours. However, tests are designed to detect delta-8 metabolize out of your blood after 10 to 12 days. That means you’ll have to wait nearly two weeks after using it before you can be confident in your ability to pass a test.
How to Measure Your Delta-8 Usage
It’s very difficult to know exactly how much delta-8 you’re taking. The amount of delta-8 in a given gummy is not always published on the package. Additionally, the amount of delta-8 in your blood isn’t as easy to detect as other drugs like alcohol. That’s why it’s important to be very careful when you’re using this drug. It’s important to follow the instructions and not take too much. If you take too much, you’re increasing the chances of being discovered. That’s why you should always start out with the smallest amount possible and work your way up to a higher dose if necessary.
How You Can Avoid Being Discovered While Using a Delta-8
Do not take a delta-8 unless you absolutely have to. If you need to take a delta-8, make sure that you start with the lowest possible dose and stay below the 50 ng/mL threshold. You may want to consider using another active metabolite of THC called delta-9-THC instead. It’s metabolized out of your system in just 72 hours. And while it has a similar effect to delta-8, it is not as potent and has less of a chance of being discovered.
To further lower your risk of being discovered, make sure you are hydrated before your test. This will help your body flush out toxins and make it easier for you to pass the test. And, of course, there’s always a chance that you won’t take an anti-doping test. If you know that you’ll be tested, make sure you’re prepared. And if you know that you’re taking a delta-8, make sure you’re careful.
