Because delta-8 is so similar to delta-9, it has the same set of risks and side effects, but with an increased risk for harm. As delta-8 products aren’t regulated, it’s possible you could ingest more of the chemical compound than is healthy. Additionally, many of the chemicals used to convert CBD into delta-8 add additional risk for illness.

Still, delta-8 carries many of the same risks as regular cannabis. And the real concern with delta-8 products, according to experts, is that they’re unregulated. So there’s no guarantee they contain exactly what the product label says they do. This means that people who consume low quality delta-8 products are at risk of accidental poisoning.

While it doesn’t produce as intense a high as delta-9 THC, delta-8 can affect your mood, thoughts, feelings, and how you act. In fact, delta-8 is often referred to as “marijuana lite” or “diet weed.” Other common THC side effects like paranoia, anxiety, and drowsiness are also less potent with delta-8 than delta-9.