Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid that has recently appeared on the European drug market. It was first described in the scientific literature in 1940. HHC is chemically similar to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. Despite its long history, HHC has only recently been identified in Europe, with its first appearance in May 2022.

What does HHC do with you?

Laboratory studies in vitro and in several animal species in vivo suggest that HHC has broadly similar effects to cannabis and THC products, such as altered perception and possible relaxation. However, the pharmacology and toxicology of HHC in humans have not been studied, and it appears to have no documented legitimate uses.

What is HHC in cannabis?

HHC is synthesized from cannabidiol (CBD), which is extracted from low-THC cannabis (hemp). It is openly sold as a 'legal' replacement for cannabis and THC products. The substance is available in several forms, including low-THC cannabis flowers and resin that have been sprayed or mixed with HHC, vapes, and food products such as candy.

Is HHC addictive?

There is currently insufficient scientific research to determine whether HHC is addictive. However, given its chemical similarity to THC, it may potentially have similar addiction risks.

How long does it take for HHC to work?

The time it takes for HHC to start working has not been clearly established, but it is thought to be similar to that of THC, meaning its effects are typically felt within minutes to an hour of use.

Is HHC harmful?

The safety of HHC in humans has not been extensively studied. Therefore, the potential health risks are unknown at this time. Because it is chemically similar to THC, the risks may be similar, but further research is needed.

Why is HHC legal?

The legal status of HHC is partly due to a gap in legislation. HHC is not scheduled under the 1961 and 1971 UN Conventions. In the European Union (EU), HHC is monitored as a new psychoactive substance (NPS) by the European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) through the Early Warning System (EWS). ). At the time of writing this blog, HHC was not audited in most EU Member States.

The rise of HHC on the market

The emergence of HHC on the market is associated with changes in legislation, particularly in the US, where the legalization of hemp cultivation has led to an abundant supply of hemp and CBD, which can be used as a precursor for semi-synthetic cannabinoids such as HHC .

HHC was first sold in the US around September 2021 and was identified in 70% of EU member states between May and December 2022. It is promoted as a 'legal' replacement for cannabis and THC products, with advertising often direct makes comparisons or allusions to similarities in effects between the substances.

Conclusion

The emergence of HHC and related substances represents a new development on the cannabinoid market. While these substances provide a 'legal' alternative to cannabis and THC products, their effects and potential risks are not yet fully understood. Further research is therefore needed to explore the full spectrum of biological activity of this cannabinoid and to develop methods for the rapid and unambiguous detection of HHC or its metabolites in urine.