Synthetic Neo-Cannabinoids: Dangers and Prevention

Synthetic neo-cannabinoids are multiplying on the market, promising effects similar to cannabis but hiding far more serious dangers. These new molecules, such as THCP, which is 30 times more potent than traditional THC, have already led to a 200% increase in poisoning cases in 2022. In this article, we will examine the real risks of these substances, their effects on health, and concrete ways to prevent the dangers associated with their use.

Introduction to Neo-Cannabinoids

Neo-cannabinoids are molecules created in a laboratory to mimic the effects of cannabis. Unlike THC and Full Spectrum CBD oil , whose effects are well documented and work synergistically through the entourage effect after decades of research, these new substances remain largely unknown. This difference is crucial because it explains why neo-cannabinoids pose a much greater health risk.

Effects and risks of neo-cannabinoids

The exceptional dangers of neo-cannabinoids are reflected in the worrying increase in cases of poisoning, which tripled between 2021 and 2022. But what exactly happens when someone consumes these substances? The effects can be truly violent:

• Severe vomiting
• Convulsions
• Strong anxiety
• A dangerous increase in blood pressure
• A racing heartbeat
• In the most severe cases, a coma

These symptoms are not to be taken lightly. Since September 2023, out of 90 reported cases, 40% have required hospitalization. That's a huge number. And because these products are new, doctors sometimes have difficulty detecting them: they can't even be detected with standard urine tests.

Another major problem: you never really know what you're buying. The composition and concentration can vary from one product to another. Plus, labels don't always tell the truth about what's inside. It's like playing Russian roulette with your health.

If you or someone around you experiences these symptoms after consuming neocannabinoids, don't wait: call for help immediately. These substances are too dangerous to take any risks.

Psychotropic effects

The psychotropic effects of neo-cannabinoids are downright scary. Imagine: they can cause much more intense reactions than traditional cannabis. And not just a little! These synthetic substances have truly formidable effects on our brains.

In concrete terms, this translates into effects that can quickly become unmanageable. We're talking about violent paranoia attacks, intense anxiety, and even loss of consciousness. The most worrying thing? These compounds can trigger serious psychotic disorders, even in people who weren't predisposed to them.

The difference with traditional cannabis is that the effects are much less predictable. One day, the same dose can make you feel relaxed. The next day, the same amount can send you to the emergency room with a panic attack. It's this unpredictability that makes these products particularly dangerous.

Cases of poisoning and overdose

The numbers are alarming. In just one year, neo-cannabinoid poisonings have tripled. And the trend continues to worsen, with a steady increase in cases requiring emergency medical attention.

When things go wrong, they can go wrong very quickly. The first signs of poisoning are often physical: vomiting, a racing heart, and skyrocketing blood pressure. But that's not all. The body isn't the only thing affected: some people experience intense anxiety attacks, while others lose consciousness or have convulsions.

Faced with these symptoms, there's no need to hesitate: call for help. Neocannabinoid poisoning is not to be taken lightly and often requires urgent medical attention. Waiting time can make all the difference.

Chemical composition of neo-cannabinoids

Unlike the terpenes and cannabinoids naturally present in cannabis, neo-cannabinoids are molecules created in a laboratory. Their composition has nothing to do with that of the classic plant.

These substances are designed to mimic the effects of THC, but their chemical structure is completely different. Imagine a key opening the same lock, but with a completely new shape. This is exactly what happens in our brain: these molecules activate the same receptors as cannabis, but in a much more intense way.

Among the most common are:

• HHC, which is somewhat similar to THC but with less intense effects
• H4CBD, a modified version of CBD that is 100 times more potent
• Delta-10, which causes euphoric effects

The real problem? These products are often sold as mixtures. Manufacturers spray these molecules onto random herbs. As a result, it's impossible to know exactly what you're consuming. Concentrations can vary greatly from one product to another, even in packages that look identical.

Some of these compounds are particularly dangerous. For example, molecules like CUMYL-4CN-BINACA are so potent that they have already caused deaths in Europe. And because manufacturers are constantly changing their formulas to circumvent the law, new, even more dangerous molecules regularly appear on the market.

Impact on public health

Neocannabinoids pose a real challenge to our healthcare system. And for good reason: in 2016, in the United States alone, more than 2,700 people required treatment after being exposed to them.

The most worrying thing? These products are often ultra-concentrated, with levels sometimes reaching 98%. At these concentrations, even accidental skin contact can cause poisoning. This is no exaggeration: customs officers have already had to be rushed to the hospital after a simple accidental contact.

Faced with this problem, our emergency services must manage patients presenting with a whole cocktail of symptoms: agitation, confusion, heart problems... Of the 2,703 cases recorded in 2016 in the USA, 180 were serious. Three people even died.

This situation also puts the professionals who deal with it at risk. Police officers, customs officers, and healthcare workers are not always equipped or trained to handle them safely. It is becoming urgent to implement strict protocols: wearing gloves, protective equipment, and staff training.

Recommendations for prevention

When it comes to neo-cannabinoids, prevention remains our best defense. Here's how to protect yourself:

• Avoid use : The best protection is total abstinence. These substances are too new and too poorly regulated to be considered "safe" use.
• Never consume alone : ​​If you consume, make sure you are accompanied and have a charged phone handy.
• Call for help if you experience symptoms such as vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness. Don't hesitate to call the emergency services.
• Report incidents : If you have had a bad experience, report it on the website signalement.social-sante.gouv.fr .

Conclusion

Synthetic neo-cannabinoids pose a real and growing threat to public health. Their unpredictable composition, violent effects, and impact on the healthcare system make them a serious threat. At L'Herbe Enchantée , we encourage you to stay informed and adopt preventative measures to protect your health and that of your loved ones.