Introduction: What Is THCP?
Around 60% of people in the U.S. have tried CBD, according to Forbes. But now, a new compound, tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP), has popped up and is getting a lot of attention for being particularly potent.
Labelled a "super-potent" cannabinoid, THCP promises effects that are way bigger than delta-9 THC. But what is this compound and does it live up to the hype?
This guide will cover the science behind THCP, how it works in the body, its effects and risks, products available and the complicated legal situation in the UK.
If you’re thinking of trying this substance, then you’ll need to know this.
THCP Basics: A New “Super-Potent” Cannabinoid
THCP is a phytocannabinoid, meaning it’s a naturally occurring compound in the cannabis plant.
It was discovered and characterised by an Italian team in late 2019, so it’s a very new discovery in the scientific world. Before that, it was unknown.
It was undetected for so long because it’s so rare; it’s present in most cannabis strains in trace amounts, too small to be isolated or measured.
Because of this scarcity, most THCP products available on the market are not extracted from the plant. They’re synthesised in a lab by converting cannabidiol (CBD), which is legally derived from industrial hemp, into THCP.
Note that research on THCP is in its infancy. Most of what we know about its effects and safety profile comes from that one study and growing anecdotal user reports, not from clinical trials.
How THCP Works in the Body
To understand why THCP is so potent, you need to understand the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is a complex cell-signalling system throughout our bodies that regulates things like mood, sleep, appetite and memory. It’s made up of endocannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are in the central nervous system and brain and are responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids. Both THC and THCP work by binding to these CB1 receptors.
The difference is in the molecular structure. A standard THC molecule has a 5-carbon alkyl side chain that fits well with the CB1 receptor.
THCP has a 7-carbon side chain. This longer chain allows THCP to bind to the CB1 receptor much more strongly—some studies suggest up to 33 times stronger.
Think of it as a key fitting a lock more precisely and securely. This is the main reason THCP is thought to be way more potent than regular delta-9 THC, even at very low doses.
THCP vs THC and Other Cannabinoids
When comparing THCP to other well-known cannabinoids, its defining characteristic is its strength.
- THCP vs Delta-9 THC: As above, THCP’s binding affinity is much stronger. Early research and user reports suggest its effects can be much more intense than delta-9 THC. This means a more intense and faster acting “high” with powerful euphoria and deep physical relaxation.
- THCP vs Delta-8 THC & HHC: Delta-8 THC and hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) are often marketed as milder, more legal-friendly alternatives to delta-9. THCP is at the opposite end of the spectrum, more potent than both. The effects are not only stronger but also last longer.
- THCP vs CBD: Cannabidiol (CBD) is non-intoxicating and doesn’t produce a “high”. It has very low affinity for CB1 receptors. THCP is the opposite, very psychoactive. This difference in mechanism and effect cannot be overstated. Due to its strength, dosing with THCP must be approached with extreme caution. A standard dose of another cannabinoid could be overwhelming with THCP.
Effects, Side Effects and Risks
The strong binding action of THCP produces a range of intense effects.
Commonly reported positive experiences include intense euphoria, deep relaxation, creative stimulation and altered sensory perception. But these potent effects come with an equally potent risk of adverse reactions.
The side effects are similar to high-dose THC but can occur with much smaller amounts of THCP. These include:
- Severe anxiety and paranoia
- Dizziness and confusion
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
- Dry mouth and red eyes
- Coordination problems
- Significant sedation and “couch-lock”
- High risk of “greening out” or over-intoxication, which can include nausea and vomiting
There is no long-term safety data. The impact of repeated THCP use on mental health, especially for those with a personal or family history of psychosis or other psychiatric conditions, is unknown and could be severe.
The uncertainty around safe dosing thresholds adds to these risks, especially for new or vulnerable users.
THCP Products: Vapes, Gummies and Oils
Despite its newness, THCP has already found its way into many consumer products, usually marketed as hemp-derived. The most common formats are THCP vapes, THCP gummies, THCP hash, and other edibles, tinctures or oils.
A big problem in this unregulated market is the inconsistency in labelling and potency. A product advertised as containing a certain amount of THCP may be much more or less potent than stated, increasing the risk of accidental overconsumption.
Given the strength of this cannabinoid, the principle of “start low and go slow” is not just a suggestion but a necessity.
For those who do choose to proceed, start with the smallest possible dose. For example, you could try a single small puff from a vape or a fraction of a gummy.
Once you take this small dose, wait a long time to assess the full effects. This is likely the only safe approach.
Is THCP Legal in the UK?
The legal status of THCP in the UK is a grey area. Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, THC and its related isomers are Class B controlled substances.
THCP is a different molecule, but its close structural similarity and psychoactivity could be interpreted by authorities as a “psychoactive substance” under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. This act is designed to ban any substance that produces a psychoactive effect comparable to a controlled drug.
So while some vendors may sell THCP as a legal hemp product, it carries a high risk of being an illegal substance. Consumers should be aware that this legal ambiguity poses a direct risk, and the situation can change with new enforcement guidance or court rulings.
Safety Tips if You’re Considering THCP?
If you are going to try THCP despite the risks, follow these strict harm-reduction practices.
- Start Low, Go Slow: Take a minimal dose and wait at least two hours for edibles (or 10-15 minutes for vaping) before considering more.
- Source Carefully: Only consider products from reputable companies that provide full, up-to-date third-party lab reports (Certificates of Analysis) for the product.
- Avoid Polydrug Use: Do not mix THCP with alcohol, prescription medications or other recreational drugs.
- Do Not Drive: Never operate a vehicle or heavy machinery while under the influence of THCP or for a long time after.
- Consider Your Health: Those with mental health conditions, heart problems or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid THCP altogether.
- Have a Safe Environment: Be in a safe, familiar place with people you trust if you are trying it for the first time.
Conclusion: Is THCP Worth the Hype?
THCP is an interesting scientific discovery, a new frontier in cannabinoid research. Its strength proves there is still so much to learn about the cannabis plant. But for the average consumer, this strength is a double-edged sword.
It’s a powerful, understudied compound with real and very serious risks, including over-intoxication and a precarious legal status in the UK.
While it may appeal to experienced users looking for a more intense experience, the lack of research, regulation and clear safety data makes it a substance that requires extreme caution.
Informed decision-making and harm reduction are non-negotiable if you are considering trying it.