Cannabinoids react with receptors in the body, providing effects that range from improving appetite to alleviating symptoms of depression and pain relief, which is why scientists who work in the cannabis industry are constantly looking to harness more of the 80-100 cannabinoids found naturally in the cannabis plant.

Utilizing more of these cannabinoids is still a relatively new venture, as proven by the discovery of THCP in 2019 by an Italian research team headed by Professor Giuseppe Cannazza at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia.

Here, we look at the key differences of THCP and THC, and what this means for cannabis consumers and the cannabis industry. 

THCP Vs. THC

What is THC?

If you’re a cannabis user or even just canna-curious, you’ll have heard of THC. It’s the cannabinoid found in cannabis plants that gets users “high.” In addition to this euphoric feeling that has attracted people to the plant for thousands of years, the primary psychoactive properties of this cannabinoid include increased appetite, altered perception of time and space, and relaxation, along with less appealing side effects like anxiety and paranoia. 

While lots of people already knew that cannabis gets you high, it wasn’t until 1964 that THC was identified as the cannabinoid that got users high. The team of experts led by Raphael Mechoulam, also known as the “father of cannabis research,” at the Weizmann Institute of Science made this discovery that has paved the way for scientists to continue researching cannabinoids in the decades that have followed. 

There are lots of different ways to consume THC that suit a variety of tastes, including smoking flower from hybrid cannabis plants that contain 30% THC to smoking concentrates like wax, resin, shatter, and hash oil, which can contain up to 90% THC, eating edibles, and even using it as a topical solution on the skin for pain relief. 

THC is commonly used for pain relief because it binds to the cannabis receptors that control pain impulses and slow them down. It has other therapeutic uses, like reducing spasms, alleviating nausea, increasing appetite, and boasting sedative properties. 

What is THCP?

While cannabinoids naturally occur in cannabis plants, scientists can also create synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of cannabinoids. THCP is a naturally occurring cannabinoid, but occurs in such small amounts it needs to be synthesized to be used. THCP-O is derived from THCP and developed through a chemical process known as acetylation. It is considered one of the most potent cannabinoids ever synthesized, and could be much more potent than THC.  

This synthesized cannabinoid differs from THC in that it has a seven-carbon alkyl chain, as opposed to a five-carbon alkyl chain. Initial studies suggest it is a psychotropic cannabinoid that affects the mind and body when consumed. However, it is still a relatively new cannabinoid to be made available to consumers and can be unpredictable, so be careful when consuming it and start with small doses. 

Currently, we can only go on anecdotal reports about THCP-O from users who have tried it. Many suggest the effects include euphoric sensations, relaxation, increased sensory perception, pain relief, and an overall body high. Scientific research suggests THCP-O may bind up to 30 times better with CB1 receptors in the body than existing cannabinoids. This receptor can radically alter our appetite, memory, mood, and more. 

Chemical Structure and Potency

The main difference between THC and THCP can be found at the molecular level. THCP has a seven-carbon alkyl chain, while THC has a five-carbon alkyl chain. This means THCP has a longer chain and can bind more strongly to the CB1 receptors in the human body, which is why it might be more potent than THC. One early study suggested THCP may bind to CB1 receptors 33x stronger than THC. 

Effects and Psychoactivity

THCP-O may have a more intense psychedelic effect than THC when consumed because the receptor it binds to at a higher rate affects the psychological effects of cannabinoids on the body. While research into THCP is still limited, those who have tried it suggest it is a more intense experience than regular THC.

Some users who have only tried tiny amounts have claimed it can be overwhelmingly euphoric, cause extreme relaxation (couch-lock), and also increase the levels of paranoia and anxiety associated with THC that people sensitive to cannabinoids may feel. 

Potential Therapeutic Benefits

More scientific studies are needed to find out if THCP can be used in place of THC for potential medical benefits. However, it is thought that it can provide similar therapeutic benefits to THC and, due to its higher potency, could provide even greater levels of pain relief, appetite stimulation, and other benefits. 

Legality and Market Presence

The legality of THCP is a gray area. The 2018 Farm Bill made it federally legal to buy and sell hemp and naturally occurring derivatives, as long as they contain under 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, THCP isn't found naturally in cannabis plants, which means the DEA would consider it illegal. 

THC is legal in all 24 states that have legalized recreational cannabis. It might surprise some people to learn that CBD remains illegal in Idaho, Nebraska, and South Dakota. At the moment, you can still buy THCP products in most states, and it is available in smoke shops and online stores, but they may be hard to find in states with stricter rules around CBD and cannabinoids in general. 

Safety and Side Effects

Anecdotal reports from people who have tried THCP products claim that the negative side effects, like the euphoric feelings and other effects, are also amplified. This may lead to more paranoia and anxiety. 

A recent study found THC-O, a synthetic cannabinoid, could potentially cause the vaping-related lung disease EVALI. THCP-O, like THC-O, should never be vaped and is safest if consumed as a tincture or gummy. 

THCP-O can be a lot stronger than other cannabinoids, which comes with its own risks. Taking too much too quickly may lead to an overwhelmingly intense euphoria and altered perception that may distort sound and visuals.

It may also lead to a rapid heart rate and memory impairment. Heavier cannabis users may find the effects to be less intense than people who don't consume much. Find a stress-free spot to take it, and know your own tolerance before you partake. 

Conclusion

THC is the cannabinoid that gets users “high” in the cannabis plant, while THCP occurs in much smaller amounts. THCP may be much more potent than THC, but the evidence surrounding it is mostly anecdotal at this point.

As further studies occur, this relatively newly discovered cannabinoid may be able to provide people with greater levels of pain relief. Unfortunately, the side effects may also increase, which should be considered by anybody planning on consuming THCP.