THCPO (THCP-O) or Tetrahydrocannabiforol-O acetate is a modified form of the cannabinoid THCP obtained by acetylation of the OH group. Translated, this means that it is a chemical variant of THCP, which has a similar structure to the better known THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis. THCP can be extracted directly from the cannabis plant, but THCPO is only produced in the laboratory.
THCPO was first produced in 2021. It has a higher thermal and oxidative stability and therefore a longer shelf life than THCP. THCPO has a side chain of seven carbon atoms and produces extremely potent effects that last longer than regular THC, which only has a five-carbon chain.
What are the effects of THCPO?
As already mentioned THCPO is more potent than THCP for example because of the added acetate group. According to scientific studies, THCP has up to 30 times more activity for the human CB1 receptor than THC. Because it has a high affinity for CB1 receptors in the brain, it has strong psychoactive effects. THCPO can therefore take even casual cannabis users by surprise and is not recommended for beginners.
Beyond its chemical composition, THCPO can give us psychoactive effects such as euphoria and relaxation associated with relaxation. Furthermore, we may experience altered perception, which can cause us to perceive time and space differently. These effects can last up to eight hours.
Therapeutic effects include pain relief, where some users report that THCPO can help relieve chronic pain. Similar to CBD, THCPO can help us against anxiety.
For now, it should be pointed out that there are no direct studies on THCPO. The evaluation of this substance is mainly based on experience and information about other cannabinoids that have undergone the same chemical treatment.
Are there possible side effects?
Side effects are expected to be similar or even the same as with other psychoactive cannabinoids. Such as red eyes, drowsiness, dry mouth, paranoia. However, these effects are short-lived and should subside within a few hours. Due to the lack of studies, the long-term effects of THCPO on the body and mind are unknown.
The difference between THCPO and HHC?
HHC is a hydrogenated form of THC, i.e. its structure is similar to THC, but with the addition of two hydrogen atoms. This makes HHC more stable. HHC is naturally present in cannabis, whereas THCPO does not occur naturally and needs to be produced using laboratory processes.
They differ in their effects mainly in intensity. The effects of THCPO are described as stronger and more intense than those of HHC, which are described as milder. The same is true for the therapeutic effects, where THCPO is more intense and can provide more pain relief than HHC. On the other hand, the side effects are also more intense, which can be, for example, hallucinations, red eyes, etc.
THCPO products
Currently, vapes and cartridges are mainly produced and can be attractive because of the variety of flavours. Most of these products contain other cannabinoids in addition to THCPO, such as HHC-P or THCP. CBD flowers infused with THCPO distillate are also available.
In conclusion, it is important to mention that you should start with caution, preferably with a low dose due to possible strong effects. It is also important to remember that everyone is different and everyone has their own individual tolerance and this is reflected in the effects.
