THC Concentrates & Extracts: What Parents Should Know

Concentrated cannabis products — including Delta-8, Delta-10, and THC-O — are sold as “legal highs” in vape shops and gas stations. They are not safe for children, and exposures are rising sharply.

Potency is extreme. THC oils and waxes can contain 60–95% THC — far higher than natural cannabis. Edibles and vapes are often mislabeled or contaminated with synthetic cannabinoids.4

Children are being poisoned. Pediatric hospitalizations for edible cannabis exposures have soared since legalization and the spread of Delta-8 products.2–3,5

Delta-8, Delta-10, and THC-O are unregulated synthetics. These compounds are chemically altered THC variants with unknown toxicity and are not approved for any use.1,4

Bright packaging targets kids. Gummies, candies, and colorful bags mimic brand-name snacks, increasing risk of accidental ingestion.5–6

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Parent Playbook

What to look for. Vape pens, gummies, or candies labeled “Delta-8,” “THC-O,” or “Hemp Derived THC.” Small, bright, candy-like packaging is common. Effects include confusion, sleepiness, panic, vomiting, or seizures.2–6

Why it’s risky. Children metabolize THC differently, with more severe toxicity. Even small amounts can lead to respiratory depression and ICU admission.2–3,5

If a child eats or inhales THC products: Call 911 if they become very drowsy or unresponsive. Contact Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 for immediate help.2–3

Talk about it. “These new ‘THC’ gummies and vapes aren’t harmless. Some are made in gas stations with no safety testing. I want you safe — let’s stick with facts, not marketing.”

Myths vs. Facts

Myth: “Delta-8 is natural, so it’s safe.”
Fact: Delta-8 is chemically synthesized from CBD and can produce the same impairment and toxicity as Delta-9 THC.1,4

Myth: “Edibles can’t hurt you — they’re just gummies.”
Fact: Pediatric exposures to THC edibles cause hospitalizations and ICU admissions nationwide.2–3,5

Myth: “It’s legal, so it must be regulated.”
Fact: Most THC variants (Delta-8, Delta-10, THC-O) are unregulated — often produced in untested labs with unknown additives.1,4

THC Product Packaging Examples

The following examples show how hemp-derived and THC-containing products are often packaged and marketed in ways that resemble ordinary snacks or candy. These images are used for public-education purposes and were sourced from publicly available materials online.

Delta-8 THC gummies marketed as hemp exploiting legal loopholes
Delta-8 gummies promoted as “hemp”—an example of candy-style branding that confuses families.
THC extract products with child-appealing packaging and safety warnings
Child-appealing packaging increases accidental ingestion risk.
Map showing state laws for hemp-derived THC including Delta-8 and Delta-10
State-by-state variation for hemp-derived THC legality (D8/D10) creates confusion for families.
High-potency THC edibles with unclear dose labeling and serving sizes
High-potency edibles frequently have unclear dosage and serving guidance.

Image attribution: Publicly available examples shown under educational fair use from product listings and public-health materials.

References

  1. Burgess A, Hays HL, Badeti J, Spiller HA, Rine NI, Gaw CE, Ding K, Smith GA. Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, delta-10 tetrahydrocannabinol, and tetrahydrocannabinol-O acetate exposures reported to America's Poison Centers. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2024;62(4):256–266. doi:10.1080/15563650.2024.2340115. PubMed
  2. Tweet MS, Nemanich A, Wahl M. Pediatric Edible Cannabis Exposures and Acute Toxicity: 2017-2021. Pediatrics. 2023;151(2):e2022057761. doi:10.1542/peds.2022-057761. PubMed
  3. Patrick SW, Dupont AS, Lipshaw MJ, Visotcky A, Thomas DG. Cannabis Legalization and Resource Use for Ingestions by Young Children. Pediatrics. 2024;153(6):e2024065881. doi:10.1542/peds.2024-065881. AAP Pediatrics
  4. Holt AK, Poklis JL, Peace MR. ∆8-THC, THC-O Acetates and CBD-di-O Acetate: Emerging Synthetic Cannabinoids Found in Commercially Sold Plant Material and Gummy Edibles. J Anal Toxicol. 2022;46(8):940–948. doi:10.1093/jat/bkac036. PubMed
  5. Malta G, Albano GD, Lavanco G, Brancato A, Cannizzaro C, Argo A, Contorno S, Plescia F, Zerbo S. Acute cannabis intoxication among the pediatric population. Front Toxicol. 2025;7:1558721. doi:10.3389/ftox.2025.1558721. PMC
  6. Partnership to End Addiction. What is Dabbing? 2025. drugfree.org
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