Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) has released its latest annual report, painting a stark picture of the Irish drug landscape. The report reveals that cannabis and related cannabinoid products accounted for a staggering 42% of all cases analyzed by the agency in 2023. This dominance has led the FSI to label cannabis “the Wild West of the Drug Marketplace,” emphasizing its rapidly evolving nature and the emergence of numerous synthetic cannabinoid products.
One such product raising particular concern is Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), a semi-synthetic cannabinoid derived from THC. While HHC was first synthesized in 1944, its recent popularity has exploded, driven by its legal status and the ability to bypass regulations. However, despite its legal availability, HHC comes with a range of potential risks.
Analysis of 114 sweet cannabis products revealed that only 64% contained the expected amount of THC. The remaining 36% contained various synthetic cannabinoids, including MDMB-4en-Pinaca, ADB-Br-Butinaca, ADB-Butinaca, ADB-Pinaca, 5F-EDMB-Pica, and HHC. The FSI report highlights that the presence of these synthetic compounds in attractively packaged, often mislabeled products is becoming increasingly common.
The report cites instances of adverse side effects, including a case where four teenagers were hospitalized after vaping products containing HHC. These incidents underscore the need for caution, particularly as scientific knowledge regarding HHC’s long-term effects remains limited. The European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) has issued warnings about the potential risks of highly concentrated HHC, citing concerns over contamination with extraction residues, synthetic byproducts, and traces of heavy metals.
Dr. Bobby Smyth, a child psychiatrist and addiction specialist, voiced his concerns about the prevalence of HHC-infused products in vape and e-cigarette shops. He highlighted reports linking HHC to psychosis and called for closing the legal loopholes that allow its sale.
The FSI report also underscores the significant presence of cocaine, identifying it as the most prevalent stimulant and the second most commonly encountered compound after cannabis. The increasing popularity of HHC and other synthetic cannabinoids necessitates increased vigilance and a thorough understanding of their potential risks. The report serves as a stark reminder that the drug market is a constantly evolving landscape demanding ongoing monitoring and proactive measures to safeguard public health.
