Dublin: The HSE has issued a public health warning after laboratory testing identified potentially dangerous semi-synthetic and synthetic cannabinoids in cannabis-related products sold in Ireland.
Testing by the HSE National Drug Treatment Centre Laboratory in Dublin found high-risk cannabinoids in vape products, vape liquids and edible cannabis products available through shops and the illicit market. The findings have prompted the HSE’s Drugs Early Warning System to alert the public and relevant authorities.
Dangerous substances detected
The HSE laboratory has analysed 76 cannabis-related samples so far this year. Semi-synthetic cannabinoids, including hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), were detected in 28 samples, while potent synthetic cannabinoids were identified in eight. Compounds associated with lung damage were also found in 10 samples.
Cannabis-related compounds were detected in 12 samples, while cannabidiol (CBD) was found in 41. The presence of synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids is particularly concerning because their effects can be unpredictable and, in some cases, significantly more dangerous than those associated with traditional cannabis.
Synthetic cannabinoids are laboratory-produced substances designed to mimic the effects of cannabis. Health professionals warn that they can cause severe intoxication, psychosis, loss of consciousness and, in extreme cases, death.
Calls for stronger government action
Dr Brian O’Mahony, senior registrar in psychiatry at St Vincent’s Hospital, criticised what he described as a slow government response to the emergence of new semi-synthetic cannabinoids. He called for stronger legislation under the Psychoactive Substances Act to address substances that can appear on the market faster than existing drug-control measures can respond.
He also highlighted the established link between cannabis use and psychosis, noting that cannabis consumption can significantly increase the risk of developing psychotic disorders.
Vape retailers raise concerns
Responsible Vaping Ireland, which represents independent vape retailers, said the emergence of potentially dangerous cannabinoid products through illegal channels has been a longstanding concern for legitimate retailers.
The organisation called for stronger enforcement against the sale of unregulated products and greater protection for consumers.
Doctors urge greater prevention
Prof. Matthew Sadlier, president of the Irish Medical Organisation and a consultant psychiatrist, said greater emphasis should be placed on primary prevention—preventing people from being exposed to harmful substances in the first place.
He said public health messaging should make the risks associated with these products clearer, particularly their potential impact on mental health, long-term wellbeing and social functioning.
Colin O’Gara, head of addiction services at St John of God University Hospital and clinical professor of psychiatry at UCD, also called for more testing of products available on the Irish market.
He said it remains unclear whether some nicotine vape products sold through retail outlets could contain similar substances and stressed the need for continued monitoring.
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