Snapchat Artificial Intelligence as an Information Source on Delta-8 THC

Authors

Cassidy R. LoParco, Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia. Electronic address: Cassidy.LoParco@gwu.edu.
Kayla K. Tillett, Department of Health Administration and Health Policy, College of Public Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas.
Ayyüce Begüm Bektaş, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
Matthew E. Rossheim, Department of Health Administration and Health Policy, College of Public Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas.
Carla J. Berg, Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia.

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

9-22-2025

Journal

The Journal of adolescent health : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine

DOI

10.1016/j.jadohealth.2025.06.036

Keywords

AI; Cannabis; Delta-8; Social media; Youth

Abstract

PURPOSE: Snapchat is a prominent social media site among youth. In April 2023, Snapchat released an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbot that was automatically implemented on all accounts. Given the apparent ease in communicating with this feature, youth may use it as an information source. METHODS: While Snapchat purports to block results for drug keywords, it is unclear the extent to which this type of content is blocked. In August 2024-January 2025, we asked Snapchat AI questions related to delta-8, a derived intoxicating cannabis product that has been rapidly rising in popularity in the United States and has limited regulations. Qualitative responses were independently coded into thematic categories. RESULTS: The AI prompted individuals to ask follow-up questions, which largely drove the themes. Themes included general information (similarity to delta-9 THC, but with a purported lower potency; relaxing/euphoric effects; legality), use motives (pain relief, anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, anxiety reduction), potential consequences (dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, drowsiness, contaminated products, inaccurate labeling), retail availability, and product recommendations. Responses did not provide supporting citations. While the AI did not block results related to delta-8, it did block results pertaining to "weed" and "THC." DISCUSSION: Snapchat AI is a plausible information source about delta-8 THC among youth. No citations were provided to support claims made by the AI, which portrayed delta-8 THC use favorably, as having benefits and low risks from use. Findings have policy implications, including restricting or regulating this type of content-particularly relating to claims without supporting scientific evidence.

APA Citation

LoParco, Cassidy R.; Tillett, Kayla K.; Bektaş, Ayyüce Begüm; Rossheim, Matthew E.; and Berg, Carla J., "Snapchat Artificial Intelligence as an Information Source on Delta-8 THC" (2025). GW Authored Works. Paper 7917.
https://hsrc.himmelfarb.gwu.edu/gwhpubs/7917

Department

Prevention and Community Health