Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol in the Emergency Department: A Case Series.

Abstract

Introduction: "Delta-8," or delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC), is a cannabinoid product that is growing in popularity for recreational use across the nation. This report aims to characterize the clinical presentation of acute delta-8 ingestions presenting to the emergency department.

Case series: This is a case series of 6 patients who presented to a regional network of small- and medium-volume emergency departments in northwest Wisconsin. Patient histories confirmed that all patients had delta-8 exposure. Patient ages ranged from 5 to 57 years old. Amounts ingested and routes of ingestions varied from patient to patient. The most common symptoms reported were respiratory depression, unresponsiveness, altered mental status, tachycardia, and chest pressure.

Conclusions: This case series is a snapshot of the burden experienced by emergency departments because of delta-8 availability. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for delta-8 use, especially in patients with altered mental status, anxiety, or cardiac.