Mode matters: exploring how modes of cannabis administration affect THC plasma concentrations and subjective effects

Dabbing, a method of vaporizing cannabis concentrates, produces higher blood THC concentrations and stronger subjective drug effects than smoking flower products via joints or bongs, though the intense intoxication fades more quickly. Vaping also shows a rapid decline in subjective effects. These findings come from a secondary analysis of two quasi-experimental studies with 252 participants who used their own legal-market cannabis products in a naturalistic setting. The results highlight that the mode of administration substantially influences THC exposure and the experience of intoxication, and future research should account for these differences.

Study at a glance

Abstract

As cannabis products become increasingly accessible and novel modes of administration like dabbing and vaping gain popularity, understanding how these modes impact use experiences and abuse liability is crucial. Existing studies primarily utilized laboratory settings with lower-potency research-grade cannabis, failing to capture common modes among individuals who use higher-potency legal market products. This study investigated how modes of administration impact plasma tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrations and subjective effects using naturalistic administration of legal market products. We conducted a secondary analysis of two quasi-experimental studies involving 252 participants (46.4% female). Participants completed a baseline assessment where they reported demographics, substance use, and medical history and an experimental assessment where they administered their products via their preferred modes. These modes were categorized into four general modes of use: dabbing, vaping, bong-like, and joint-like. Primary outcomes included plasma THC concentrations and subjective drug effects, both of which varied significantly across modes. Compared with modes typically associated with flower products (i.e., bong-, joint-like modes), dabbing was associated with higher plasma THC concentrations and subjective effects, indicating greater THC exposure when using this mode and its associated products. Interestingly, dabbing and vaping exhibited more rapid reductions in levels of subjective intoxication over time, suggesting that higher levels of intoxication may not be sustained for these modes. This study underscores the significant impact of modes of administration on THC exposure and subjective drug effects among individuals who regularly use legal market cannabis. Results demonstrate the need for future research to better characterize and account for modes of administration and their associated products.