A study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research shed light on how different modes of cannabinoid delivery impact plasma tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrations and effects.
The research team conducted a secondary analysis of two quasi-experimental studies that included 252 participants. Study A consisted of 159 participants (females = 76, males = 83), and Study B included 93 participants (females = 41, males = 49, non-binary individuals = 3).
The participants completed a baseline assessment that reported demographics, medical history, and substance use. In addition, they completed an experimental evaluation in which they administered retail cannabis products via their preferred modes of administration according to four general categories: vaping, dabbing, bong-like, and joint-like.
Study A and Study B reflected minor variations in methods and measures. Study A (conducted at CU Boulder) scheduled the first post-use assessment right after consumption (approximately 14.59 min after use), and participants in Study B completed their first post-use assessment roughly 20 min after use. In Study B (conducted at CU Anschutz), the researchers collected blood samples to examine whole-blood cannabinoid levels. The research team then converted samples to represent plasma levels that aligned with samples taken for Study A. The research team classified Study B participants into three groups based on cannabis use history: occasional use (several times per week) and smoking flower; daily use and smoking flower; and daily use and inhaling concentrate products.
Plasma THC concentrations and subjective drug effects varied significantly across modes of administration. The study found that dabbing was associated with higher plasma THC concentrations and intoxication effects, which suggested greater THC exposure compared to traditional use modes often associated with flower products, such as the use of bongs or pre-rolls. However, dabbing and vaping modes demonstrated more rapid reductions in levels of intoxication over time, indicating that higher levels of intoxication may not be sustained for these modes.
This study provides useful insights into the impact of modes of administration on THC exposure and intoxication effects of various retail cannabis products. The research team advocated for additional research to provide in-depth data on different delivery modes and their advantages and disadvantages for medical cannabis patients.
Source: Journal of Cannabis Research
