A new study found 11.4% of US 12th graders reported using delta-8 THC in the past year. Delta-8 is a legal cannabis compound that produces milder psychoactive effects than delta-9 THC. Delta-8 use was higher in states where marijuana is not legal for adults and in the South and Midwest. Over 68% of delta-8 users consumed it at least 3 times, and nearly 17% used it over 40 times. Delta-8 products are easily accessible and come in forms that may appeal to kids, such as gummies, chocolate, cookies, vaping cartridges, sodas, and even breakfast cereals. Poison control calls about delta-8 spiked 82% from 2021-2022.
