H4-CBD and H2-CBD, two cannabis derivatives, will be banned in France from June 3, 2024.
Background to the Ban
The National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) recently decided to classify the hemisynthetic cannabinoids H4-CBD and H2-CBD on the list of narcotics, making their production, sale, and use prohibited in France from June 3. This decision comes following reports of consumption leading to serious effects on the health of users.
Also concerned are HHCPO, THCP and THCA: “ Certain cannabinoid derivatives formed from the nucleus called benzo[c]chromene as defined in the decision, excluding CBN (or cannabinol). This family includes in particular HHC (or hexahydrocannabinol), HHCO (or HHC-acetate or hexahydrocannabinol acetate), HHCP (or hexahydrocannabiphorol), HHCPO (or HHCP acetate or hexahydrocannabiphorol acetate), THCP (or tetrahydrocannabiphorol), THCA (or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid). »
What are H4-CBD and H2-CBD?
H4 -CBD and H2-CBD are molecules resulting from the chemical transformation of natural substances from the cannabis plant. In addition to being hemisynthetic cannabinoids, these products can also be purely synthetic cannabinoids. They are sold in various forms, such as oil, resin, weed, spray, candies or gummies, and liquids for electronic cigarettes, particularly on the internet and in stores specializing in CBD.
Reasons for the Ban
Agnès Laforest-Bruneaux, deputy director of the surveillance directorate at the ANSM, said that these substances are classified as narcotics because of their psychoactive effects. They act on the central nervous system, influencing the perception, sensations and state of consciousness of users. These cannabinoids mimic the effects of THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, but with potentially more serious and intense consequences.
Risks and Side Effects
Consumption of H4-CBD and H2-CBD may cause a series of immediate adverse effects, such as vomiting, loss of consciousness, coma, seizures, paranoia, anxiety, high blood pressure, and tachycardia. Since September 1, 2023, 90 cases of adverse effects have been reported to the drug dependence-addictovigilance evaluation and information centers (CEIP-A), 40% of which led to entry to the emergency room or hospitalization.
Surveillance and Prevention
The ANSM maintains careful monitoring of the emergence of new cannabinoids on the market and their effects on health. In collaboration with CEIP-As, the agency is prepared to take additional action if necessary, including new classifications as narcotics.
Precedents and Comparisons
This ban follows that of products based on hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), another molecule derived from cannabis, banned in France for almost a year. Unlike THC, CBD is not affected by this classification due to its lack of risk of abuse or dependence, according to the ANSM.
Conclusion
The ban on H4-CBD and H2-CBD in France marks an important step in the regulation of synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids. As the risks to consumers' health have been proven, this decision aims to protect the public against potentially dangerous substances. For those interested in CBD products, it is crucial to turn to legal and safe options, available in specialty stores and online.
For more information on high-quality CBD products , visit our site and discover our extensive range, including oils , resins, and much more. Also take advantage of our free delivery throughout Europe, with no minimum order.
For further…
https://www.newsweed.fr/ansm-cannabinoides-h4cbd-thcp-stupefiants/