A green plant material that was mixed with a synthetic substance, expected to be THC or a ‘synthetic cannabinoid’ was found to contain CUMYL-PINACA.

Effects

THC occurs naturally in cannabis alongside many other cannabinoids, terpenes and plant compounds, which may influence how cannabis feels and affects a person. THC works mainly by activating CB₁ receptors in the brain and nervous system, which help regulate mood, memory, coordination, perception, appetite and reward. THC is considered a partial agonist, meaning it only partially activates these receptors.

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), by contrast, are manufactured compounds that can activate CB₁ receptors much more strongly than THC. Many SCs are full agonists, meaning they can produce effects that are more intense, unpredictable and potentially harmful than those expected from cannabis. Hundreds of different SCs have been identified worldwide, and for many there is little information available about their effects or risks.

There is limited research on CUMYL-PINACA specifically. Laboratory studies suggest it is a full CB₁ agonist, meaning it may produce stronger and less predictable effects than cannabis, and studies of closely related synthetic cannabinoids have reported serious harms such as dangerously low body temperature and seizures.

More broadly, synthetic cannabinoids have been linked to severe anxiety, panic, agitation, confusion, paranoia, hallucinations, psychosis, seizures, rapid heart rate, loss of consciousness and, in some cases, death. Because their effects can vary widely between substances, batches and their relevant dosage, the risks can be difficult to predict.

Reducing the harm

Test your stuff!

While CanTEST cannot ordinarily provide on-site testing for plant material like cannabis, concerns from members of the community regarding the presence of synthetic cannabinoids prompted us to undertake additional laboratory analysis with the support of ANU.

Start low, go slow.

It’s hard to know the effects of synthetic cannabinoids, even if they’ve been taken before. Experiencing adverse or unexpected effects? Ask for help and don’t take more.

Never use alone.

Only take synthetic cannabinoids in a familiar environment and in the company of people you know and trust. This may reduce any unexpected or unpleasant effects and ensure you have help available.

Experiencing negative effects or signs of an overdose?

Call 000 for an ambulance.

Signs could include a fast/irregular heart rate, chest pain, breathing difficulties, or severe hypothermia. Synthetic cannabinoids can feel much more intense than regular cannabis, and can potentially exacerbate underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, psychosis or schizophrenia.