THCP - The Super Cannabinoid

The World of THCP

 THCP (Tetrahydrocannabiphorol), also known as THC-P, adds a powerful new dimension to the world of cannabinoids. Reportedly 33 times stronger than THC, THCP has earned the titles “super cannabinoid” or the “king of cannabinoids” in some circles.

What is THCP?

 THCP, short for Tetrahydrocannabiphorol, is one of around 150 known phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. These compounds naturally occur in cannabis and mimic the effects of endocannabinoids produced in the human body. Discovered and isolated in 2019, THCP is the only known phytocannabinoid with a seven-carbon atom chain in its structure, a feature that makes it unique.

 

Key Details:

                  •               Full name: Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP)

                  •               Also known as Δ9-THCP, (C7)-Δ9-THC, or THC-Heptyl

                  •               Chemical formula: C23H34O2

                  •               CAS number: 54763-99-4

                  •               IUPAC name: (6aR,10aR)-3-heptyl-6,6,9-trimethyl-6a,7,8,10a tetrahydrobenzo[c]chromen-1-ol

 

Is THCP Derived from the Cannabis Plant?

 

Although THCP exists in trace amounts in some cannabis strains, commercially available THCP is usually semi-synthetic. It is typically created in laboratories by chemically converting CBD or THC, as its natural presence in the cannabis plant is too minimal for large-scale extraction.

 

Cannabinoid Receptors and Binding Affinity

 The effects of THC and THCP are mediated through cannabinoid receptors, primarily CB1 receptors. THCP has a significantly higher binding affinity for CB1 receptors due to its seven-carbon side chain, a feature that enhances its potency.

For comparison:

•  Most naturally occurring cannabinoids have side chains of five carbon atoms.

•  THCP, with its seven-carbon chain, is 33 times more active than THC at CB1 receptors.

 

THCP Binding Affinity – Incredible Potency

 Studies reveal that THCP is far more potent than other cannabinoids:

•  63x more active than THCV

•  33x more active than THC

•  13x more active than THCB

 Such potency is usually only observed in synthetic cannabinoids, which are often associated with severe side effects.

 

THCP Side Effects and Risks

 Research on THCP’s side effects remains limited. However, due to its binding to CB1 receptors, it is expected to produce similar effects to THC—though likely more intense and longer-lasting. Early indications suggest that THCP consumption may carry risks similar to those associated with synthetic cannabinoids.

 

Is THCP a Full Agonist?

Full agonists can cause extremely potent effects and may lead to severe side effects. A study has shown that Δ9-THCP’s binding activity to human CB1 receptors is comparable to CP55940, a known full agonist. This suggests that THCP could also act as a full agonist, raising questions about its safety.

  

THCP’s Potential

The discovery of THCP raises intriguing possibilities:

•  It challenges the assumption that THC is solely responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.

•  THCP may have medical applications, potentially offering benefits even at low doses.

•  The unique properties of THCP could influence the development of new medical cannabis products.

However, further research is needed to explore its full potential and safety profile.  

 

Conclusion

Given its extreme potency, limited research, and legal uncertainty, THCP is not suitable for recreational use and should be approached with caution. Despite these concerns, THCP represents a significant milestone in cannabis research, and future studies may uncover exciting medical applications for this “super cannabinoid.”