High-risk synthetic cannabinoids found in vapes and products sold in Ireland by HSE Drug Trends Lab

Concern that products are being sold through shops and the black market across Ireland

As part of the HSE Drugs Early Warning System in Ireland, the HSE Emerging Drug Trends Laboratory has identified high-risk cannabinoids in vapes, vape ‘juice’ and other products such as ‘edibles’ sold in shops and the illicit market in Ireland. These substances have been linked to serious physical and mental health harms, including losing consciousness, severe intoxication, withdrawal and cases of psychosis across different counties.

Key findings from the HSE Emerging Drug Trends Laboratory

A total of 76 vapes and vape juice from shops and the illicit market have been analysed to date in 2026.

Results show:

• 28 contained HHC or related compounds (semi-synthetic cannabinoids)
• 8 contained potent synthetic cannabinoids
• 10 acetate-containing compounds that can be linked to lung disease
• 12 cannabis or related compounds
• 41 contained CBD

The lab results show that products could be mislabelled as CBD or other cannabinoids but actually contain HHC or synthetic cannabinoids.

Prof Eamon Keenan, HSE Clinical Lead for Addiction Services, said: “We are concerned that high-risk cannabinoids are being sold through shops and the black market across Ireland. 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.

In general, 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.

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, HSE Emerging Drug Trends manager added: "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.”

The HSE Emerging Trends laboratory continues to play a central role testing substances of concern to monitor the drug landscape in Ireland for public health and harm reduction purposes. The HSE is working together with communities and stakeholders from the National Alert and Response Group (NRPAG) including An Garda Síochána to monitor the issue nationally for early warning purposes.

Reducing risks from synthetic cannabinoids

It’s always safest not to take drugs. Synthetic cannabinoids can look like CBD or cannabis but they cause more harmful effects

• Be in the know: You could buy a cannabis vape, liquid or edible from a dealer and it could contain more potent and risky contents
• You can’t trust the contents of cannabinoids you buy in shops, they could be labelled as CBD but contain other cannabinoids including synthetic cannabinoids
• Consider if there is extra risk for you if you use - such as health conditions or how you feel
• Cannabinoids impact on the developing brain. Delay using cannabinoids for as long as possible
• Be with people you trust and look out for each other - do not use alone
• Avoid mixing synthetic cannabinoids with alcohol or other drugs including with anti-depressant medication
• Know what to do in case of a drug emergency. If you or a friend feels unwell, call 999 or 112 and tell the paramedic what was taken and give them the product
• Contact drugs.ie@hse.ie if you are concerned about a cannabinoid product

The HSE Safer Nightlife Programme will return to Electric Picnic and District X this year, providing Back of House drug checking and harm reduction outreach. Information gathered through the programme helps identify emerging drug trends and supports the delivery of timely public health information and alerts.

Anyone concerned about a young person's substance use can access information and support through drugs.ie, the Parents Matter resources at drugs.ie/parents, and local health services.