THC-O-Acetate: Scarce Evidence for a Psychedelic Cannabinoid.

Summary

THC-O-acetate (THC-Oac) does not produce significant psychedelic effects, as indicated by survey responses from consumers. Participants reported low to moderate cognitive distortions and few visual or hallucinatory experiences. Scores on the Mystical Experience Questionnaire were significantly below the threshold for a complete mystical experience, with 79% of respondents indicating that THC-Oac is 'not at all' or 'a little' psychedelic. Prior use of classic psychedelics was associated with lower mystical experience ratings.

Study at a glance

Abstract

There is a growing interest in semi-synthetic cannabinoids, including THC-O-acetate (THC-Oac). Some cannabis marketers and users have claimed that THC-Oac produces psychedelic effects; the current study is the first to examine this claim. Researchers developed an online survey for THC-Oac consumers based on previous cannabis and psychedelic use surveys and in consultation with the moderator of an online forum. The survey assessed the experiential profile of THC-Oac and included items from the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ), an instrument for assessing psychedelic experiences. Participants reported a low to moderate level of cognitive distortions (altered sense of time, difficulties concentrating, difficulties with short-term memory) and few visuals or hallucinations. Participants' responses were significantly below the threshold for a complete mystical experience on all four MEQ dimensions. Participants who had used classic (5-HT2A agonist) psychedelics had lower scores on all MEQ dimensions. When asked directly, 79% responded that using THC-Oac is "not at all" or "a little" of a psychedelic experience. Some reports of psychedelic experiences may be due to expectations or contaminants. Those having prior experience with classic psychedelics had lower ratings of mystical experiences.

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