Of the 76 drugs tested, 28 contained the now illegal HHC or similar compounds.

The HSE’s National Drug Treatment Centre Laboratory has tested and identified high-risk cannabinoids in vapes, vape ‘juice’ and ‘edibles’ sold both in high street shops and the illicit black market in Ireland. This testing was done as part of the HSE’s Drugs Early Warning System which tracks new drug trends and dangers in the Irish market. 

This year the National Drug Treatment Centre Laboratory has tested a total of 76 vapes and vape juice products. Of the 76 drugs tested, 28 contained the now illegal HHC (hexahydrocannabinol) or similar compounds (semi-synthetic cannabinoids). 8 of these were notably potent synthetic cannabinoids, 10 contained an acetate compound which has been linked to lung disease, 12 contained cannabis (or similar compounds), and 41 contained CBD.

Unlike cannabis which is a plant, synthetic cannabinoids and semi-synthetic are a family of man-made chemicals. These chemicals mimic the effects of THC, (the main psychoactive constituent in cannabis) and work on the same receptors on the body. While there is limited information available about how these cannabinoids work and their toxicity to humans, they have been linked to serious physical and mental health harms such as losing consciousness, severe intoxication, withdrawal and psychosis.

HHC was made illegal in Ireland on 29th of July 2025, when the government classified it as a Schedule 1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. However, recent work from the National Drug Treatment Centre Laboratory has revealed that HHC, alongside new semi-synthetic cannabinoids, are in rotation. 

Senior registrar in Psychiatry at St Vincent’s Hospital, Dr Brian O’Mahony said that “the Government’s policy towards these substances has been ineffective”. Dr Brian O’Mahony has also stated that the HSE was called upon to legislate for combatting the new semi-synthetic cannabinoids by using the Psychoactive Substances Act, and they have failed to do this.

While HHC has now been named illegal in legislation, there are now new semi-synthetic cannabinoids that are not HHC.

“We are concerned that high-risk cannabinoids are being sold through shops and the black market across Ireland,” said Prof Eamon Keenan, HSE Clinical Lead for Addiction Services. “We are particularly concerned about the effects on young people who buy vapes and edibles and are not aware that they are exposed to these harmful substances.”

“We are particularly concerned about the effects on young people who buy vapes and edibles and are not aware that they are exposed to these harmful substances.”

 Prof Eamon Keenan also added that “young people are especially vulnerable as their brains are still developing. Substance use during adolescence increases risks for their long-term mental health and we are aware of young people experiencing psychosis after using these products.”

“we are aware of young people experiencing psychosis after using these products.”

“Parents and guardians have a crucial role in delivering prevention to help protect young people by staying connected, setting expectations and creating opportunities for ongoing conversations that can help young people make informed and healthier decisions.”

Nicki Killeen, the HSE’s Emerging Drug Trends manager added that “Semi- synthetic cannabinoids are new to the EU market, and there is little evidence available on their short-term and long-term health effects.”

“Semi- synthetic cannabinoids are new to the EU market, and there is little evidence available on their short-term and long-term health effects.”

“In addition, our lab has identified potent synthetic cannabinoids often known as ‘spice’ in products sold in these shops and in products sold as THC on the illicit market. They are much more potent than traditional cannabis, and products vary widely in content, posing a serious risk. A product can be labelled as Cannabidiol (CBD) but could contain Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) or novel synthetic cannabinoids, and you cannot know what you are actually taking.”

To reduce harm, users should make themselves aware that a cannabis vape, liquid or edible bought from a dealer could contain more potent and risky contents than expected. What’s more, products bought in shops can’t be trusted, because they may be labelled as CBD but actually contain other cannabinoids, including synthetic ones. Consider whether you’re at extra risk, such as from existing health conditions or how you’re feeling on the day, and bear in mind that cannabinoids affect the developing brain. It’s also advised to always use it with people you trust, look out for each other, and avoid using it alone. 

It’s advised to avoid mixing synthetic cannabinoids with alcohol or other drugs, including anti-depressant medication due to the risk synthetic cannabinoids pose in related serotonin syndrome. Finally, know what to do in a drug emergency: if you or a friend feels unwell, call 999 or 112, and tell the paramedic what was taken, giving them the product if possible. If you’re concerned about a cannabinoid product, you can contact drugs.ie@hse.ie.

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