What's the difference between CBD and THC? What's legal in Oklahoma

Alexia Aston, The Oklahoman
·2 min read

After Oklahoma voters authorized the state’s medical marijuana program in 2018, consumers have become more curious about their options. Medical marijuana comes from the Cannabis sativa plant and contains many active compounds, like delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, and cannabidiol, or CBD.

These compounds interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system, but they have very different effects.

What's the difference between THC and CBD? Here's what to know about the compounds.

What's the difference between CBD and THC?

THC, short for Tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a “high” sensation. It can be consumed by smoking but also through methods including oils, edibles, tinctures, capsules, and more.

The use of medical marijuana has not been approved by the FDA, and further study is needed to determine whether it's safe.

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is derived directly from the hemp plant, which a report from Harvard University calls, "a cousin of marijuana." The compound does not cause a "high" effect, unlike THC, which is the primary ingredient in marijuana that causes this effect.

The usual CBD formulation is oil, according to Mayo Clinic, but it's also sold as an extract, a vaporized liquid and an oil-based capsule.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved one drug containing CBD, Epidiolex, because it was determined the benefits outweigh the risks.

More: How do I get a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma? What to know about eligibility, fees

Is CBD legal in Oklahoma?

A 2018 Oklahoma House bill legalized the possession, sale and use of CBD oil derived from industrial hemp in Oklahoma, but marijuana-derived CBD oil is only legal with a license.

Is THC legal in Oklahoma?

THC in medical marijuana is legal for Oklahomans who have a medical marijuana license.

Oklahoma does not have a list of qualifying conditions for people seeking a medical marijuana license. Doctors are allowed to recommend patients if they think medical marijuana is a good treatment option for them.

Are there side effects to CBD or THC?

The FDA reported that CBD points to risks such as liver injury, harm to the male reproductive system, change in alertness and other symptoms. It may also increase or decrease the effectiveness of other medications.

Regarding THC, some of the most common medical reasons for marijuana use are anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain and depression.

Possible side effects of medical marijuana include:

  • Increased heart rate

  • Dizziness

  • Impaired concentration and memory

  • Slower reaction times

  • Negative drug-to-drug interactions

  • Increased risk of heart attack and stroke

  • Increased appetite

  • Potential for addiction

  • Hallucinations or mental illness

  • Withdrawal symptoms

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: THC vs CBD: What's the difference? Oklahoma marijuana laws