Is THC-O Legal in Wyoming?

Is THC-O Legal in Wyoming?

With Delta-8 THC currently legal in Wyoming and no specific THC-O law in the state, cannabinoid stores sell products containing THC-O to individuals willing to buy. However, with a bill to ban hemp substances with psychoactive or synthetic advancing in the state legislature, the legal status of THC-O may change soon.

What is THC-O?

THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid that is produced in the lab from CBD extracted from hemp. Cannabidiol (CBD) is first converted into Delta-8 THC, and then acetic anhydride is added to create THC-O. You can find THC-O products at CBD stores and vape shops in the form of wax dabs, oils, tinctures, edibles, and vapes.

THC-O is considered a prodrug, meaning that it only becomes psychoactive after it has been metabolized in the body. The pharmacokinetics of the added acetyl group and the way it is absorbed in the body are considered the reasons behind THC-O's higher potency than other THC forms. THC-O effects are considered therapeutic and "spiritual". Some users compare its effects closely to those induced by psilocybin due to their hallucinogenic nature.

Is THC-O Legal Under Federal Law?

No. THC-O existed in a legal gray area until early 2023. Since the passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act (AIA) in 2018, there has been much confusion over the legality of specific isomers. The AIA authorizes hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. Cannabis manufacturers began selling THC-O products, claiming they were derived from Delta-8 THC or hemp-compliant plants.

While naturally occurring cannabinoids such as THC and THCV are permitted if derived from hemp, the DEA has recently declared that synthetic isomers, such as Delta-8 THC-O and Delta-9 THC-O, are federally prohibited substances even if they are derived from hemp. The DEA determined that since THC-O does not occur naturally in cannabis plants and can only be obtained synthetically, it does not fall under the legal definition of hemp and is a non-exempt synthetic tetrahydrocannabinol prohibited under 21 U.S.C. § 812 and 21 CFR 1308.11(d)(31).

How Long Does THC-O Last in the Body?

THC-O, similar to other THC compounds, is metabolized in the body. Following absorption into the bloodstream, THC-O travels to the liver, where enzymes break it down into metabolites. These are then eliminated through various bodily excretory processes. Although the euphoric effects of THC-O are short-lived, its metabolites can linger in the body for months after use.

Several factors influence the duration of THC-O and its metabolites in the system. For example, a high dose of the cannabinoid leads to a longer stay in the body, while smaller doses result in faster elimination. The method of administration also plays a role, with inhalation methods providing a quicker onset and potentially faster elimination.

Tolerance levels vary among individuals, affecting metabolism efficiency and, consequently, duration of effects. Users with lower tolerance levels may have THC-O or its metabolites remaining longer in the body. Furthermore, metabolism, influenced by age, weight, and health, contributes to how long THC-O remains in the body. Older adults who use THC-O may significantly take longer to expel THC-O from their bodies than younger adults, who usually have faster metabolism.

The frequency of THC-O consumption also impacts the length of time taken for the compound to leave the body. Users who consume THC-O products regularly are likely to retain THC metabolites longer. Hydration levels may expedite THC-O elimination. Similarly, dietary factors can influence its absorption and breakdown, impacting the THC's retention in the body. Users who take a lot of water are more likely to expel THC metabolites from their bodies quickly.

Can You Fail a Drug Test for Using THC-O?

Yes. If you have used a THC-O product within a few months of a drug test, chances are that the result will come out positive. Drug tests often lack the ability to differentiate between various THC compounds and only detect THC metabolites. As THC-O undergoes metabolic processes similar to other THC cannabinoids, there is a good likelihood of a positive drug test result after THC-O use.

Typical drug tests for THC include urine, blood, saliva, and hair follicle tests. However, the detection window varies across these test types. THC-O is typically detectable in the bloodstream for up to 48 hours, in urine for 3-7 days, and in saliva for 24-48 hours. Hair follicle tests, known for their extended detection capabilities, may identify THC-O metabolites for up to 90 days.

THC-O vs Delta-8

Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid obtained from the hemp plant. Although it naturally occurs in hemp plants, it is often synthesized as it is difficult to extract.

Both THC-O and Delta-8 THC produce an intoxicating effect in users, though the intensity of the effect depends on which one you ingest. THC-O is suggested to be about 7 times more potent than Delta-8 THC, with the positive effects and side effects more intense. Usually, Delta-8 THC induces a mildly intoxicating effect in users compared to the more psychoactive Delta-9 THC. Both compounds may be used for sleep stimulation, pain relief, and nausea relief

THC-O vs Delta-9

Delta-9 THC is a psychoactive cannabinoid found naturally in substantial quantities in the cannabis plant, unlike THC-O, which needs to be synthesized. While both compounds share psychoactive properties, THC-O is believed to be at least three times more potent than Delta-9 THC. Consequently, THC-O users experience a more pronounced "high" compared to Delta-9 THC.

Generally, both Delta-9 THC and THC-O offer users benefits such as relaxation, heightened focus, and euphoria. However, the intensity of euphoria and relaxation from Delta-9 THC is not as profound as that produced by THC-O.

Despite their therapeutic advantages, both Delta-9 THC and THC-O can have side effects. Delta-9 THC use may lead to memory loss, red eyes, anxiety, impaired cognitive function, and dry mouth. Similarly, potential adverse effects of THC-O encompass lightheadedness, disorientation, dry mouth, dry eyes, and feelings of nervousness.