Novel synthetic cannabinoids detected in Ireland in 2021

Synthetic cannabinoids are a class of designer drug molecules that bind to the same receptors to which cannabinoids (THC and CBD) in cannabis plants attach. Typically synthetic cannabinoids are sprayed onto plant matter and are usually smoked. Reported user negative effects include palpitations, paranoia, intense anxiety, nausea, vomiting, confusion, poor coordination, and seizures. There have also been reports of a strong compulsion to re-dose, withdrawal symptoms and persistent cravings. There have been several deaths linked to synthetic cannabinoids worldwide.

In 2021 Forensic Science Ireland detected five new synthetic cannabinoids in exhibits seized by An Garda Siochana. Each of these synthetic cannabinoids was present on plant material in an attempt to appear as if they were cannabis. The synthetic cannabinoids are ADB-BUTINACA, MDMB-4en-PINACA, 5F-EDMB-PICA, CUMYL-5F-P7AICA and 5F-MDMB-PICA. Forensic Science Ireland reports all new compound detections via the National and European Early Warning networks (EWET and EMCDDA).