THC Vapes: the what, the where, the why, and the warning

What are THC vapes?

Disposable THC vape pens are portable devices designed to vaporise a liquid containing THC, the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. They usually come pre-filled with THC-infused oil or concentrate. 

The vape cartridges work by heating a coil which is connected to a battery. This heat then turns the liquid into a vapour which can be inhaled directly into the lungs. In order for this to work, it requires a carrier liquid that is capable of vaporising without burning, clogging or evaporating. Common examples include vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG) or Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) oil.

THC vapes vs medical cannabis flower 

There are a number of key differences between these products, which are usually unregulated, and medical cannabis flower which is available on prescription and administered using dry herb vaporisers. 

Prescribed flower usually comes in the form of dried cannabis buds which are then ground up before being vaporised. Although some vape cartridges are available on prescription in the UK, these products have been manufactured in EU-GMP facilities and are subject to rigorous testing and standards to ensure they are safe for medical use. 

Prescribed cannabis-based medicines usually contain a balance of cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, as well as minor cannabinoids and naturally occurring terpenes, all of which contribute to the therapeutic effects. 

There is no way of knowing exactly what is in a THC vape obtained illegally. They usually contain a form of THC which has been isolated from the other compounds, meaning it likely has less medicinal value. The amount of THC may vary considerably between different products. There is also a risk that it may contain other harmful additives or carrier agents, such as vitamin E acetate.

Where can you buy THC vapes?

THC vape pens are usually purchased illegally through the black market. They may be sourced through street dealers, unregulated online platforms, and even social media. Purchasing cannabis this way comes with serious risks - beyond ending up in trouble with police. 

Vape pens bought illegally provide none of the assurances of prescribed cannabis, usually coming from unknown sources without any guarantee that they have been tested for safety. 

Legal medical cannabis flower can only be prescribed by specialist doctors in the UK, through clinics like Releaf and is dispensed through pharmacies with a licence to handle controlled drugs.

Why do people turn to THC vapes?

Vaping is one of the quickest routes of administration of cannabinoids as it is absorbed into the bloodstream directly from the lungs. Disposable vapes have grown in popularity due to their convenience, discretion, and accessibility. 

The compact design means they are portable, and more subtle than other delivery methods and may not produce such a strong odour, making them more discreet to consume in public. The fact that vaping is now considered to be a safer or less harmful alternative to smoking, may be another factor.

For some patients, THC vapes might seem like an easy way to access some of these benefits, without having to go through the process of getting a prescription, which they may assume is complex or costly. 

Why is medical cannabis a safer alternative?

Medical cannabis which is regulated and prescribed by a specialist consultant through a CQC registered clinic, such as Releaf, is always a safer alternative. 

All products prescribed in the UK are regulated by the MHRA and manufactured to EU-GMP standards, meaning they are required to undergo testing for safety and possible contaminants.

As cannabis is a very personalised medicine, this route also provides peace of mind that the dosage and effects are being monitored regularly by your doctor and can be adjusted to meet your specific needs. This is especially important for those using cannabis to manage complex, chronic health conditions and patients who may be immunocompromised and so at greater risk of harm from contaminants. 

All of these factors ensure that patients are able to access safe and consistent medication. 

The warning 

As we’ve touched on already, the risks of using illegal THC vapes are multifold. The lack of regulation means it is impossible to know whether the product you are using is safe.  

Vape pens often contain additives such as vitamin E acetate, a thickening agent which has been linked to severe lung injuries. The carrier agents used in vapes can also cause harm. One study found that when heated to high temperatures, propylene glycol can break down into microscopic polymers that can cause damage to lung tissue. MCT oil also produces several hydrocarbons and reactive aldehydes when heated, which can cause damage to the lungs and has been found to be present in some cases of e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI).

THC vape pens may seem like an easy or convenient option, but the risks far outweigh the benefits. Those looking to try medical cannabis should seek out clinics such as Releaf, where the process of obtaining a prescription is designed to be as simple and straightforward as possible. 

Accessing prescribed cannabis under the direction of a specialist doctor is the only way to ensure your medication is safe and legally compliant. You can find out more about medical cannabis via the FAQs page or by contacting a member of the team.