“We have decided to include hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and two of its derivatives, HHC-acetate (HHCO) and hexahydroxycannabiphorol (HHCP) on the list of narcotics” announces the Medicines Agency on June 12, 2023 It is now banned in France.
So far sold freely in France in CBD shops or on the Internet in the form of HHC flowersHHC oil, sweets (gummies) or resin, HHC (abbreviation of HexaHydroCannabinol) East now on the list of narcoticsannouncement the Medicines Agency (ANSM) in a press release dated June 12, 2023. Same thing for its derivatives: HHC-acetate (HHCO) and hexahydroxycannabiphorol (HHCP). So, their production, sale and use in particular are prohibited in France from Tuesday, June 13, 2023. HHC East a cannabinoid of synthesis appeared in the United States in 2021 and whose use has multiplied in Europe Since May 2022.
What is HHC?
HHC (abbreviation for HexaHydroCannabinol) is a laboratory-produced cannabis derivative. It is not extracted directly from the hemp plant. We thus speak of a “synthetic” product. Now banned in France, it could previously be found in CBD shops or specialized e-shops (Internet), in the form flower, resin, oil to put under the tongue, candy (gummies), scented liquid to put in your electronic cigarette… The concentration of HHC in these products is variable and can reach up to 99%, depending on shapes and brands.
HHC in France: on sale or banned?
In a press release dated June 12, 2023, the Medicines Agency announced that it had registered hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and two of its derivatives, HHC-acetate (HHCO) and hexahydroxycannabiphorol (HHCP) on the list of narcotics. Their production, sale and use in particular, are therefore prohibited in France from June 13, 2023. This decision follows the work carried out at the request of the ANSM by the drug dependence assessment and information centers
A risk of strong addiction and significant psychotropic effects.
What are the effects of HHC?
Consumption of HHC (or its derivatives) causes psychotropic effects similar to those of cannabis and THC-based products:
- Feeling of relaxation, relaxation
- Loss of control
- Energy input
- Psychological relief
- Pain relief
- Feeling of lightness in body and mind
- Sleep easier
- Increase in body temperature
What are the health hazards of HHC?
THE Guide to New Synthesis Products published by the Interministerial Mission for the Fight against Drugs and Addictive Behavior reports a severe clinical picture : tachycardia, high blood pressure, chest pain, electrocardiographic changes, dyspnea, restlessness, dizziness, seizures… which can lead to death due to cardio-respiratory arrest. Ultimately, chronic synthetic cannabinoid consumption can lead to complications :
- Increased risk of delusional decompensation, schizophrenic disorder
- Depressive disorder, suicide risk
- Persistent hallucinations
- Cognitive alterations
- Addiction
Is HHC addictive?
According to the Guide to New Synthetic Products, synthetic cannabinoids are linked to a risk of addiction. There would also be a real feeling of lack in case of withdrawal. In the event of difficulty in controlling and/or stopping your consumption, consult a doctor or a structure specializing in the management of addictions, such as a “young consumer consultation” for those under 25, which offers a free service. and confidential, reception, listening, advice and, if necessary, orientation.
What is the price of HHC?
The price (for 1 gram) depends on the amount of HHC present in the product:
- THE HHC flowers cost between 6 and 10 euros on average
- HHC resin costs around 10 euros
- HCC oil costs between 20 and 70 euros (depending on the percentage of HHC)
- HHC cartridges for electronic cigarettes cost around 40 euros each
- HHC gummies cost around 10 to 20 euros
What is the difference between CBD and HHC?
In France, HHC would be made from a CBD molecule. But its effects are actually closer to those of THC : euphoric narcotic effect which could lead to addiction. HHC would be consumed recreationally in a festive environment (like THC) while CBD would be favored for its anxiolytic, painkiller, anti-stress effects… Namely that the sale of CBD is authorized if the products contain less than 0.3% THC and whether they are manufactured within the European Union.
- Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and related substances, EMCDDA, 2023
- National Institutes of Health (.gov)
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
- Interministerial mission to combat drugs and addictive behavior (MILDECA): Guide to New Synthetic Products Edition 2022
- European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA)