Minor Cannabinoid Use Among Medical Cannabis Patients

The legalization of cannabis in the United States (US) has increased the availability of a variety of novel cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN), delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC) and THC-O acetate ester (THC-O), yet little is understood about the use of these emerging cannabinoids by medical cannabis patients. A large sample (N = 1721) of US medical cannabis patients was surveyed to characterize their patterns of use (frequency, methods of administration) and motivations for use, across a wide variety of emerging cannabinoids. Results revealed that participants most frequently endorsed past year use of cannabidiol (CBD), delta-9-THC, delta-8-THC, and THCA, with daily use commonly reported. Participants most frequently endorsed smoking flower, using a vape pen/cartridge, and use of edibles to administer nearly all cannabinoids. They most frequently reported using cannabis to treat medical conditions, for well-being, and as a substitute for medications, and the majority reported that they had stopped using one or more pharmaceuticals or other drugs because of their medical cannabis use. Our survey demonstrates the substantial use of emerging cannabinoid products among a large sample of medical cannabis patients and indicates that public health outreach is needed to help educate people about these emerging cannabinoids.