H4-CBD and H2-CBD, two cannabis derivatives, will be banned in France from June 3, 2024.
Context of the Prohibition
The French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM) recently decided to classify the semi-synthetic cannabinoids H4-CBD and H2-CBD as narcotics, making their production, sale, and use prohibited in France from June 3rd. This decision follows reports of consumption that have resulted in serious health effects for users.
Also included 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 notably includes 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 derived from the chemical transformation of natural substances found in the cannabis plant. In addition to being semi-synthetic cannabinoids, these products can also be purely synthetic. They are sold in various forms, such as oil, resin, herb, spray, gummies, and e-cigarette liquids, particularly online and in CBD shops.
Reasons for the Ban
Agnès Laforest-Bruneaux, deputy director of the surveillance department at the ANSM (French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety), stated that these substances are classified as narcotics due to their psychoactive effects. They act on the central nervous system, influencing users' perception, sensations, and state of consciousness. 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 can lead to a range 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 French Centers for Evaluation and Information on Drug Dependence and Addictovigilance (CEIP-A), 40% of which resulted in emergency room visits or hospitalization.
Surveillance and Prevention
The ANSM (French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety) closely monitors the emergence of new cannabinoids on the market and their effects on health. In collaboration with the CEIP-A (Regional Centers for Information and Prevention of Drug Abuses), the agency is prepared to take further measures if necessary, including new classifications as narcotics.
Precedents and Comparisons
This ban follows that of products containing hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), another molecule derived from cannabis, which has been prohibited in France for almost a year. Unlike THC, CBD is not affected by this classification due to its lack of risk of abuse or addiction, according to the ANSM (French National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety).
Conclusion
The ban on H4-CBD and H2-CBD in France marks a significant step in the regulation of synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids. Given the proven health risks to consumers, this decision aims to protect the public from potentially dangerous substances. For those interested in CBD products, it is crucial to choose legal and safe options, available in specialized shops and online.
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