Introduction to the new cannabinoids HHC / H4CBD from French brands
- HHC / H4CBD, a cannabis derivative, is taking off in France, arousing interest and curiosity. 🌿
- The authorities are on the alert, strict regulations are on the horizon. ⚖️
- Between promise and concern, the future of the HHC / H4CBD remains uncertain and exciting. ?
Behind the acronym HHC / H4CBD is the Hexahydrocannabinola semi-synthetic derivative of cannabis. Its existence is not new, since the molecule was discovered in the 1940s by an American researcher specialising in the study of cannabinoids. However, it wasn't until the end of 2021 that HHC / H4CBD really began to be noticed on the US drugs market. Its presence in Europe was first reported in May 2022, during a customs seizure, according to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA).
Long sold freely, products based on HHC / H4CBD could soon be subject to very strict new regulations in France, following concerns from health authorities about its potential effects on health.
From plant to consumption
According to Joëlle Micaleff, president of the French network of addictovigilance and hospital pharmacologist in Marseille, it is very likely that the vast majority of HHC / H4CBD marketed is synthesized from hemp, used to produce cannabidiol (CBD). The transformation process includes the use of various substances to obtain HHC / H4CBD.
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What sets HHC/H4CBD apart from other designer drugs is its wide availability. In addition to websites and street dealers, the HHC / H4CBD can also and especially be found in CBD shops, often associated with images of “risk-free” products. It exists in many forms: vaporized cannabis flowers of HHC / H4CBD, e-liquids for electronic cigarettes, scented confectionery...
The potential risks of synthesis of HHC / H4CBD in France
Although the rise in popularity of HHC / H4CBD is undeniable, this emerging substance raises questions about the health and social risks it could pose. The European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) has also issued an alert on this subject in a report published in April.
HHC/H4CBD, an emerging phenomenon, poses potential health and social risks. The effects of this substance on humans are not well known, but according to addictologists, they would be similar, or even superior, to those of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the molecule responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
Pre-clinical studies in cellular or animal models have shown that even at lower concentrations, HHC/H4CBD elicits more effects than THC. However, no clinical studies have yet been conducted.
An uncertain future
Several European countries such as Finland, Poland or Austria have already classified HHC / H4CBD as a psychoactive substance and have banned products containing it. In France, however, no ban on sale or consumption is currently in force. But that could change. Indeed, faced with what it describes as a "synthetic drug at risk of addiction", the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) plans to take "extremely coercive measures".
This could shake up the landscape for CBD shops, with some already anticipating a possible ban. Joëlle Micaleff believes, however, that “consumption does not stop only with a change in regulations”. It therefore pleads for an educational approach aimed at raising public awareness of the potential risks associated with the consumption of HHC / H4CBD.
Towards strict regulation of HHC / H4CBD in France
Despite the availability and growing popularity of HHC / H4CBD-based products, their sale may soon be heavily regulated in France. Indeed, the Director General of the ANSM, Christelle Ratignier-Carbonneil, recently announced on Franceinfo that “extremely coercive measures” would soon be taken with regard to HHC / H4CBD to guarantee the safety of people likely to be exposed. to this substance.
In conclusion, it seems that the future of the HHC / H4CBD in France is uncertain. Between the promises of its defenders, who see in it enormous potential, and the concerns of the health authorities, it is likely that the landscape of the HHC / H4CBD will evolve rapidly. One thing is certain: consumers and sellers will need to stay alert and informed to navigate this ever-changing environment.
Understanding the HHC and H4CBD: an overview
🌿 Presentation | HHC / H4CBD, a semi-synthetic derivative of cannabis, arouses interest and curiosity in France. |
⚖️ Current legislation | Currently, no ban on the sale or consumption of HHC / H4CBD in France. |
🧭 An uncertain future | Faced with potential risks, strict measures could be taken. |
🔬 Health impact | The effects of HHC / H4CBD are not well known, they are said to be similar or superior to those of THC. |