Synthetic cannabinoids
Substance
Synthetic cannabinoids are not derived from the hemp plant. They are a collective term for artificially produced substances (cannabinoid mimetics) with cannabis-like effects. They are classified as research chemicals and are referred to as new psychoactive substances (NPS). [1]
group
Psychedelics
Forms of appearance
Powder or liquid, as a herbal mixture or in the form of adulterated cannabis products (hashish, weed, etc. sprayed with synthetic cannabinoids)
Consumption patterns
Synthetic cannabinoids, like natural cannabis products, are usually mixed with tobacco and smoked (joints, water pipe, shilom, etc.), vaporized (vaping), less often drunk (as tea, tincture) or eaten (space cakes, yogurt).
Be careful when mixing substances!
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alcohol
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MDMA (Ecstasy)
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2C-X
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DMT / Ayahuasca / Changa
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cocaine
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LSD
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Methamphetamine
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Psilocybin
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Cathinone
Substance groups
dosage
There are hardly any reliable dosage guidelines; these vary between 0.5 and 5 milligrams depending on the substance. The newest synthetic cannabinoids are up to 100 times more potent than THC.
Effect
The consumption of synthetic cannabinoids is largely unexplored. Like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), they bind to cannabinoid receptors, but they are full agonists, not just partial agonists like THC. Their effects are comparable to THC, but more intense. These effects range from relaxing, appetite-stimulating, and emotionally intensifying to disinhibiting and euphoric. A sense of calm, lack of critical thinking, and/or inexplicable cheerfulness may occur. The perception of time and reaction time are slowed. As with high THC levels, hallucinogenic effects may develop. Aggression towards oneself and others can also occur.
Onset of action
Similar to cannabis, some substances act faster. The speed of onset depends heavily on the method of administration.
Duration of effect
Similar to cannabis, some have a shorter duration of action. [1] However, there is also suspicion that some synthetic cannabinoids, in addition to their high potency, also have particularly long half-lives and thus may have a prolonged psychoactive effect. [2]
Aftereffects
Up to several hours (depending on dose, method of consumption and substance)
Risks and side effects
The use of synthetic cannabinoids is linked to numerous deaths (UNODC, EMCDDA). Due to its potency, overdoses and acute and severe poisonings are more likely than with natural cannabis. Particularly in Spice mixtures and when mixed with cannabis products, inhomogeneous drug distributions are not uncommon, significantly increasing the risk of overdose. Mixtures of various synthetic cannabinoids are also frequently found in circulation. Consumption can lead to, among other things, rapid loss of consciousness, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, central nervous system seizures, agitation, nausea and vomiting, decreased cognitive function (reaction time and critical thinking), confusion, delusions, suicidal behavior, anxiety and panic attacks, acute psychosis, intense cravings, aggression towards others and oneself, violent behavior, and even heart attack. [1]
Safer Use
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Generally, the consumption of synthetic cannabinoids is discouraged. If the substance is known, one should start with very small doses to achieve the desired effect. Several days should be allowed between doses.
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Have natural cannabis tested at a drug-checking service if you suspect it is harmful.
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When using newly purchased cannabis products for the first time, only "test" them and then wait 20 minutes. If you experience any unusual effects, refrain from further use immediately!
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Avoid mixing substances! Mixing substances (including alcohol or medication) is particularly risky due to unpredictable and still unknown interactions.
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Mix cannabis products well before consumption (use a grinder) to avoid high concentrations and inhomogeneities of possible synthetic cannabinoids. [1]