Synthetic cannabinoids

The use of synthetic cannabinoids is largely unexplored. Like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), they bind to the cannabis receptors, but they are full agonists and not only partial agonists like THC. The effect spectrum is comparable to THC, but more intense. This ranges from relaxing, appetizing, intensifying feelings to disinhibiting and euphoric. Serenity, lack of criticism and/or groundless cheerfulness can set in. The experience of time and the ability to react is slowed down. As with high THC content, a hallucinogenic effect sets in. Aggressiveness against oneself and others may also occur.

Further information can be found in our evaluation report on synthetic cannabinoids at DIZ Zurich.

Onset of action
Faster onset of action compared to cannabis. Speed of onset of effect strongly dependent on the form/type of intake.

Duration of effect
Comparable to cannabis, some have a shorter effect. However, it is suspected that some synthetic cannabinoids, in addition to their high potency, also have particularly long half-lives and can therefore have a prolonged psychoactive effect. Users who have inadvertently consumed synthetic cannabinoids on mislabeled CBD cannabis report that the effect sets in very quickly and violently and then flattens out again after 10 to 30 minutes.

After-effects
Up to several hours (depending on dose, form of consumption and substance).

Appearances
Since 2005, synthetic cannabinoids have been sold in incense blends made from herbs or in so-called incense sticks/room air fresheners. Typical examples include Spice Gold, Spice Silver, Bloom, Bonzai, Sence, and Yucatan Fire. These products are usually sold over the Internet and in "head stores" as so-called "legal high products" in brightly printed sachets made of metal foil. However, they are also available under their chemical names as pure substances. The legislative body constantly updates the narcotics directory, which is why the substances often quickly disappear from the market again and new creations appear.

Since 2020, it has increasingly occurred in the German-speaking region that synthetic cannabinoids are sprayed/applied to legally produced CBD cannabis in order to be able to sell it deceptively as natural THC-containing cannabis more profitably on the black market. This development is most likely related to the overproduction of legal CBD cannabis and the resulting collapse of the Swiss CBD market. Cannabis products (hemp flowers or hashish) on which synthetic cannabinoids have been sprayed/applied are visually and tastefully not recognizable as such.

Due to the large number of different synthetic cannabinoids (around 300) and the difficult handling, no dosage information is given. Therefore, follow the safer-use rules to minimize the risk of overdose. Synthetic cannabinoids are mainly smoked, but could theoretically also be snorted, injected or swallowed.

• In principle, the use of synthetic cannabinoids is not recommended. If the substance is known, one should approach the intended effect in very small doses. There should be breaks of several days between doses.
• Have natural cannabis tested at a drug-checking facility if suspected.
• Newly purchased cannabis products should only be "tested" for the first time and then waited for 20 minutes. In case of unusual effects, refrain from further use!
• Avoid mixed consumption! Mixed consumption (also with alcohol or medicines) is particularly risky because of the unpredictable and as yet unknown interactions.
• Mix cannabis products well before consumption (use grinder) to avoid strong concentrations and inhomogeneities ("hotspots")of possible synthetic cannabinoids.

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