Are THC-Infused Drinks Safer than Alcoholic Beverages?
You are here:Beverages infused with THC have gained popularity recently, especially among people who are rethinking their alcohol consumption. THC-infused drinks give them a way to relax and get a buzz without alcohol side effects.
Alcohol remains the most used substance in the US, but daily cannabis use is quickly outpacing daily alcohol use. If you are thinking about trying cannabis drinks, take the time to learn more about the potential risks involved with the products. Here are some things to know.
What Are THC-Infused Drinks?
THC-infused drinks are available in various forms including teas, coffees, seltzers, juices, sodas and mocktails. They contain THC derived from hemp and are used recreationally for their intoxicating effects.
Cannabis (marijuana) contains hundreds of chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. The most commonly known cannabinoids are:
- THC – Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol can ease pain, relieve nausea, and produce euphoria.
- CBD – A cannabinoid that has many potential medical uses and is not intoxicating.
Some cannabis-infused drinks list THC as an ingredient, but there is no standard dose. Typically, an 8-ounce beverage will contain 5 milligrams of THC, while some may contain up to 200 mg. Many of the beverages also contain alcohol or caffeine.
Are the Beverages Legal?
A loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill led to the beginning of THC-infused beverages. The bill legalized hemp nationwide. Hemp is defined by federal law as “cannabis that contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC.”
As long as the concentration of THC in the beverages remains beneath that threshold, it is legal, even in states that have not legalized recreational marijuana.
Why Some People Prefer THC Infused Drinks vs. Alcohol
Many people are turning to THC-infused drinks to avoid alcohol-related side effects such as hangovers, weight gain, and alcohol-induced aggression or violence. The THC-infused drinks provide a an easy way to enjoy cannabis without the offensive smoke.
Furthermore, THC-infused beverages offer quicker onset of effects compared to edibles. Their liquid form allows the body to rapidly absorb the cannabinoids.
In addition to the benefits of no hangover and fewer calories, cannabis-infused drinks provide a more relaxed social experience compared to alcohol, which can cause depression and anxiety.
The growing sober curious trend encourages people to be mindful of their alcohol consumption. It involves paying close attention to where, when, and why they drink and exploring alternatives that align with overall well-being. Because of this trend, more and more people are experimenting with THC-infused beverages.
What Are the Risks or Concerns?
Like any mind-altering substance, THC-infused drinks are not without risks. THC, like alcohol, can cause impaired coordination and judgment, leading to accidents and death. People who are not accustomed to the delayed effects of the drinks can overindulge and experience psychosis or paranoia.
Drinking alcohol along with cannabis-infused drinks is called crossfading, and it is risky for several reasons. Some of the risks associated with mixing alcohol and THC include:
- Alcohol increases THC absorption causing a more intense, rapid onset of intoxication.
- The combined effects of alcohol and THC on cognitive function are more pronounced than when using only one substance.
- Motor skills and coordination are even more impaired when combining substances, resulting in an increased risk of falls or car accidents.
- Combining substances increases the risk of blackouts, memory loss, panic attacks, or anxiety.
- THC overdose is rare, however, combining it with alcohol can increase the risk.
In addition to the health risks of THC-infused drinks, consumers must also be aware that the industry is mostly self-regulating. This means you can’t expect strict quality standards for the products and dosing may be inconsistent. While some states have begun imposing guidelines on the companies, stricter state or federal rules may be needed.
If you’re considering switching from alcohol to THC beverages, keep in mind that you are simply substituting one mind-altering substance for another.
Are THC-Infused Drinks Addictive?
THC-infused drinks can be addictive depending on several factors and patterns of use such as:
- Adolescents who start using THC and use it frequently are at high risk of developing cannabis use disorder.
- People who use cannabis more frequently increase their risk for tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
- Alcohol or nicotine use are also risk factors that contribute to the potential for addiction to THC.
- People who struggle with antisocial behaviors, childhood trauma, or poor school performance are at increased risk for THC addiction.
Regular THC use can lead to increased tolerance. The brain adapts to the presence of the drug thereby reducing the effects. As a result, higher doses are required to achieve the desired euphoria.
If a person is dependent on THC, sudden abstinence can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Irritability, anxiety
- Mood and sleep disturbances
- Loss of appetite
- Weight fluctuations
- Stomach pain, nausea
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Cravings
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is characterized by the inability to stop or control cannabis use despite the negative consequences. About one-third of people who use cannabis have CUD, according to the CDC.
End THC Dependence or Addiction With Help From Design for Change
Despite what you may have been told, THC use is not a completely safe alternative to alcohol. When used in excess, cannabis can adversely affect your physical and mental health. If you can’t stop or control your THC use, we can help. Our team of compassionate, skilled professionals will design a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique situation.
Our full continuum of care includes various therapies and evidence-based methodologies that will get you on a path to living a substance-free lifestyle for the long term.
To ensure that you get the best care possible, we are a JCAHO-accredited facility and are in-network with many major insurance companies. Contact our Lancaster, CA facility to learn more about our marijuana treatment program.
Sources:
niaaa.nih.gov – Sober-Curious Young Americans May be Changing the Conversation Around Alcohol
cdc.gov – Understanding Your Risk for Cannabis Use Disorder
