As published on 12th June, France made the decision to classify hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and two of its derivatives, HHC-acetate (HHCO) and hexahydroxycannabiphorol (HHCP), as narcotic substances.
What exactly is the decision of France?
As of June 13, 2023 France completely prohibits the manufacture, distribution, and use of these substances. This choice was eventually made in response to the research the of ANSM-commissioned centres.
According to studies, HHC has a similar potential and structure to cannabis. However, the research around this substance is not so wide. France wants to keep stepping up its investigation into HHC and synthetic cannabinoids in general.
Recently, the selling of HHC was outlawed in a number of additional European nations, including Sweden and Finland.
Why is setting HHC as narcotic important for safety?
HHC consumption was rising in France, according to work done by the national addictovigilance network (CEIP-A). It occasionally happens when consumers incorrectly think they are taking a different substance, like CBD. We are also speaking about the two HHC derivatives, HHCO and HHCP.
Tremors, vomiting, anxiety, mental disorientation, discomfort, tachycardia, chest pain, and blood pressure increases are dangers coming from using HHC or its derivatives. Moreover, the HHC content, which is not always correct on the labels, seems to affect how strong these illnesses are. Similar to cannabis, prolonged use of these drugs increases the risk of misuse and dependency.
Therefore, the government’s choice in France to set HHC, HHCO, and HHCP as narcotic substances shows its commitment to protecting the public and controlling the use of potentially harmful chemicals. The rising use and popularity of these synthetic cannabinoids highlight how crucial it is to educate people about the dangers they pose and take the necessary precautions to shield them from harmful effects.