1906 Drops (commonly called “1906 pills”) are commercially produced, swallowable cannabis and botanical tablets developed by 1906 New Highs. Named after the year of the Pure Food and Drug Act, these pills combine microdosed cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, CBN) with targeted plant medicines and adaptogens.
They use a lipid-microencapsulation formula designed to bypass lengthy hepatic digestion, producing an onset time of approximately 15 to 20 minutes
Product Identification & Formulations
The pills are small, odorless, color-coded tablets formulated to be swallowed whole. They are gluten-free, calorie-free, and vegan.
Variety – Target Effect – Cannabinoid Ratio per Drop – Active Herbal Botanicals
- Genius – Focus & Cognition – 2.5 mg THC : 2.5 mg CBD : 2.5 mg CBG – Rhodiola, Bacopa, Galangal, L-Theanine, Theobromine, Caffeine
- Chill – Relaxation & Tension Relief – 5 mg THC : 25 mg CBD – Magnolia Bark, L-Theanine
- Go – Physical & Mental Energy – 5 mg THC : 5 mg CBD | Caffeine, Galangal, Theobromine, L-Theanine
- Bliss – Mood Elevation & Euphoria – 5 mg THC : 5 mg CBD – Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum), Theobromine
- Love – Arousal & Sensual Connection – 2.5 mg THC : 2.5 mg CBD – Damiana, Ashwagandha, Muira Puama, Catuaba, Theobromine
- Midnight / Sleep – Sleep Induction & Rest – 5 mg THC : 5 mg CBD : CBN – Cannabinoid blend (formerly included Corydalis / Stephania)
- Boost / Boost+ – Unaltered Cannabis High | 5 mg – 30 mg THC (single-ingredient) | None (pure cannabinoid delivery)
Mechanism of Action
1906 pills rely on the pharmacokinetic interplay between the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and botanical pharmacology:
- Cannabinoid Action: Delta-9-THC acts as a partial agonist at CB1 receptors in the central nervous system to modulate mood, pain perception, and cognition. CBD modulates CB2 receptors, acts as an allosteric modulator at CB1, and interacts with serotonin receptors, buffering the psychoactive intensity of THC.
- Rapid-Onset Pharmacokinetics: Standard edibles undergo primary first-pass hepatic metabolism (converting -THC to the more potent over 60–120 minutes). The lipid-based micro-emulsion in 1906 drops facilitates rapid mucosal and gastrointestinal uptake directly into the bloodstream within 20 minutes.
- Synergistic Botanical Pathways:
- Kanna (in Bliss): Inhibits serotonin reuptake (SRI) and phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), elevating mood and reducing stress.
- Rhodiola & Bacopa (in Genius): Regulate monoamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine) and support acetylcholine synthesis to enhance focus.
- Caffeine & Theobromine (in Go/Genius): Antagonize adenosine receptors and induce mild vasodilation, increasing cerebral blood flow without tachycardia spikes.
Dosage & Administration
- Recommended Starting Dose: 1 drop (typically 2.5 mg to 5 mg of THC).
- Administration Method: Swallow whole with water. Do not chew, crush, or dissolve sublingually, as the lipid encapsulation is designed for intact gastrointestinal transit.
- Titration Window: Wait at least 45–60 minutes before assessing the full effect before considering a second drop.
Side Effects
Common Effects
- Dry mouth (“cottonmouth”) and dry eyes
- Drowsiness, fatigue, or mild lethargy (especially Chill or Midnight)
- Mild tachycardia or jitteriness (especially Go or Genius due to caffeine/theobromine)
- Mild gastrointestinal upset if taken on an empty stomach
Potential Adverse Reactions
- Cannabis-Induced Anxiety/Paranoia: Can occur in THC-sensitive or opioid/cannabinoid-naïve individuals.
- Orthostatic Hypotension & Dizziness: Caused by vasodilatory adaptogens combined with cannabinoids.
- Impaired Motor Coordination & Delayed Reaction Time: Avoid driving or operating machinery.
Precautions & Drug Interactions
- Serotonergic Medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs): Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) in Bliss Drops possesses natural serotonin reuptake inhibition properties. Combining it with antidepressant medications may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome (symptoms include tremors, hyperthermia, agitation, and hyperreflexia).
- Sedatives & CNS Depressants: Concurrent use of Midnight or Chill with alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or prescription sleep aids (e.g., zolpidem) can cause excessive central nervous system depression.
- Cardiovascular Disease: The stimulants in Go and Genius (caffeine, theobromine, galangal) can elevate blood pressure and pulse in sensitive individuals.
Safety Warnings & Regulatory Notices
Key Warnings:
- Historical Botanical Hepatotoxicity Notices: Earlier formulations of 1906 Midnight Drops utilized Corydalis rhizome (and later Stephania), which led to public health advisories from state regulatory agencies (including Colorado’s MED and CDPHE) regarding potential liver toxicity and elevated hepatic enzymes. The manufacturer subsequently reformulated the product to remove these extracts. Consumers with pre-existing hepatic disease should inspect ingredient labels closely.
- Pregnancy & Nursing: Cannabinoids and herbal adaptogens cross the placenta and pass into breast milk; they are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Accidental Pediatric Ingestion: Products must be stored in child-resistant containers out of reach of children and pets.