Differences in Online Descriptions and Marketing of Derived Intoxicating Cannabis Products.

Abstract

Given the rapid expansion of the derived intoxicating cannabis product (DICPs) market and product diversity, this study assessed marketing information provided by online retailers regarding specific DICP compounds. In May 2023, we searched "buy delta thc" in Google's incognito, selected the 20 most trafficked online retailers, and assessed product descriptions and related marketing claims across DICP compounds. 18/20 websites provided descriptions for various DICPs. The top five themes were psychoactive/intoxicating profile (100% of the 18 sites), physical effects (94%), mental effects (94%), naturalness (83%), and safety recommendations (83%). All DICPs, except for THCA and HHC-O, were described as psychoactive/intoxicating; potency was often discussed in relation to delta-9 or delta-8 THC. Claims related to physical effects included improvements to general health, pain management, sleep/insomnia aid (mostly for delta-9 THC). Each compound was described on at least 1 website as having relaxing/calming effects; all compounds except for THCP were described as having anti-anxiety effects. Safety recommendations included buying from trusted/reputable sources; 12 websites mentioned compounds "suitable for new users" (deltas-8,9,10 THC, HHC, THCP, THCV). Findings highlight potentially misleading information in DICP marketing and the need for stricter regulatory oversight, as well as required health warnings to protect and educate consumers.