The Trouble with THC-O-Acetate Potency

Description:
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) acetate (THC-O-A) products, touted as more potent than Δ9-THC, are commercially available from brick-and-mortar shops and online. The Laboratory for Forensic Toxicology Research at Virginia Commonwealth University identified multiple THC-O-As in gummies as part of a case involving ongoing hallucinations and a psychotic break. THC-O-A potency is reported online as 2-3 times greater than Δ9-THC, often referencing a 1984 military report that summarizes the work of Roger Adams’ research group from the 1940s. Adams’ group reported the isomerization of CBD to two physiologically active structures, THC and hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) but was unable to establish the precise location of the double bond in the alicyclic ring. In 1941, H.J. Wollner’s research group reported a “homogenous THC compound” isolated by preparing a THC acetate derivative. This group also reported the alicyclic double bond position was elusive. Still, potency studies were performed, and the acetylated compound was reported as having high physiological potency. A few years later, Adams’ group reported the potency of THC homologs with varying alkyl side chains, THC synthesized from CBD, Wollner’s THC-O-A compound, and THC from the hydrolysis of THC-O-A. All but two molecules were reported as more potent than the THC “standard,” which was unknown but drawn as Δ6a10a-THC. Assessing the potency of isobars of THC-O-A using the poorly defined structures in the early published literature as reference is imprudent. Interpretations of the historical literature misattributed the potency of Δ9-THC-O-A. Modern anecdotal claims are unsubstantiated and are potentially detrimental to public health and safety. Funding: National Institute of Justice [2019-MU-MU-0007] & National Institute on Drug Abuse [P30DA033934]. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Justice.

Speaker: Alaina Holt - Virginia Commonwealth University