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

A survey of THC-O-acetate users found that the semi-synthetic cannabinoid produces low to moderate cognitive distortions—altered sense of time, concentration difficulties, and short-term memory problems—with few visuals or hallucinations. Scores on the Mystical Experience Questionnaire were significantly below the threshold for a complete mystical experience across all four dimensions. Users who had previously used classic psychedelics (5-HT2A agonists) scored lower on all dimensions. When asked directly, 79% of respondents said using THC-O-acetate is "not at all" or "a little" of a psychedelic experience. Some reports of psychedelic effects may stem from expectations or contaminants.

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.