Most of us realize that the potency of synthetic cannabinoids on the market varies significantly, with some offering a powerful impact on consumers.
These lab-made alternatives mimic the effects of natural cannabis, but often pack a stronger punch due to their chemical composition.
As a cannabis enthusiast, I’ve investigated and compiled a list of 8 of the most potent synthetic cannabinoids currently available to consumers.
This article will delve into each of these, providing you with an in-depth understanding of their potency and the effects they can have on your body and mind.
What are synthetic cannabinoids?
Synthetic cannabinoids, often misleadingly labeled as “synthetic marijuana”, are a group of man-made mind-altering chemicals.
These are either sprayed on dried plant material to be smoked or sold as liquids to be vaporized in e-cigarettes and other devices.
They’re called cannabinoids because they are related to chemicals found in the marijuana plant.
However, their effects can be unpredictable, severe, or even life-threatening.
Have you heard anything about NPSs?
Well, NPSs are unregulated mind-altering substances that have become newly available on the market and aim to replicate the effects of illegal drugs.
And synthetic cannabinoids are part of a group of drugs called “new psychoactive substances” (NPS).
Now, let’s delve into the most potent ones out of these. This section will focus on listing and explaining these powerful synthetic cannabinoids, their potency.
1) JWH-018: A potent pioneer
For me, the most intriguing aspect of the synthetic cannabinoid market lies in its pioneers, one of which is JWH-018.
JWH-018 is a synthetic cannabinoid that skyrocketed to fame due to its high potency and its role as one of the first compounds of its kind to hit the market.
This compound was originally developed by a team led by John W. Huffman at Clemson University for research purposes in the 1990s. However, it’s now widely recognized for its recreational use.
Chemically, it mimics the effects of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in natural cannabis.
However, JWH-018 binds more completely and strongly to the cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
This stronger bond results in a far more potent effect than THC, leading to intense feelings of relaxation, altered perception, and in some cases, hallucinations.
However, this high potency also comes with increased health risks such as rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, and severe anxiety.
Therefore, it’s crucial for users to be aware of these potential outcomes.
While JWH-018 has been banned in many places due to these health risks, its influence on the synthetic cannabinoid market remains significant.
2) AM-2201: The controversial counterpart
Building on the legacy of JWH-018, another synthetic cannabinoid that demands attention is AM-2201.
This compound has garnered attention due to its high potency and controversial status. Similar to JWH-018, AM-2201 mimics THC’s effects but at an even more intense level.
This is due to its chemical structure, which allows it to bind even more strongly to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors.
What does this mean?
Essentially, users experience a heightened and prolonged sense of euphoria and relaxation.
However, this enhanced potency comes with a price. AM-2201 has been linked to severe health risks such as seizures, psychosis, and even instances of death.
These potential dangers have led to the compound’s prohibition in numerous countries worldwide, yet its potency ensures it retains a certain notoriety within the synthetic cannabinoid market.
3) XLR-11: A deceptive heavyweight
Now, let’s veer slightly off the expected path and talk about XLR-11.
Despite its less well-known status compared to JWH-018 or AM-2201, don’t be fooled – XLR-11 is a heavyweight contender in the synthetic cannabinoid market.
What’s interesting about XLR-11 is its deceptive nature.
While it doesn’t bind to the cannabinoid receptors as strongly as AM-2201, it metabolizes into a compound called UR-144 in the body.
And here’s where the plot thickens:
UR-144 is significantly more potent than XLR-11 itself, leading to a delayed but powerful impact on users.
This means that initially, you might not feel much after consuming XLR-11. But as your body metabolizes it into UR-144, the effects kick in with a surprising intensity.
Just like the other synthetic cannabinoids we’ve covered, XLR-11 comes with its fair share of health risks, including seizures and heart issues.
It’s this potency and potential for harm that landed it on the list of controlled substances in many parts of the world.
4) 5F-ADB: A dangerous game-changer
Have you ever wondered what makes a synthetic cannabinoid especially risky?
Well, it’s not just about potency.
Let’s take a closer look at 5F-ADB, a compound that dramatically illustrates this point.
This chemical is part of the indazole family and it’s known for its strong effects and its widespread use in various parts of the world.
5F-ADB binds strongly to the CB1 receptor, much like THC, but with a significantly higher affinity.
This leads to intense psychoactive effects which can often be severe or even dangerous.
It’s critically important to understand that these synthetic cannabinoids are not just stronger versions of THC, but they are entirely different chemicals with their own specific risks.
One example of its potency was seen in Japan in 2014 when 5F-ADB was associated with a number of serious incidents involving impaired driving.
This highlighted not only the strength of this particular synthetic cannabinoid, but also the potential societal risks associated with its use.
The potency and potential danger of 5F-ADB solidify its position as one of the most potent synthetic cannabinoids available on the market.
5) AB-FUBINACA: A pharmaceutical reject
Let’s delve into the curious case of AB-FUBINACA, a synthetic cannabinoid with a unique backstory.
Originally developed by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, AB-FUBINACA was never approved for medical use. Instead, it found its way into the black market, where it’s now recognized as one of the most potent synthetic cannabinoids.
Much like its counterparts, AB-CHMINACA acts on the CB1 receptor, resulting in psychoactive effects.
However, you’ll find that this compound is even more potent because it binds to these receptors with an affinity 16 times greater than THC.
That’s right, 16 times!
Here are a few more quick facts about AB-CHMINACA:
- It’s considered one of the most potent synthetic cannabinoids due to its high binding affinity.
- Its effects can be unpredictable and severe, leading to hospitalizations in many instances.
- Despite its legality being a gray area in some regions, it’s commonly found in synthetic cannabis products.
Note that it’s this dangerous combination of high potency and significant health risks that have led to strict regulation of AB-FUBINACA in many regions worldwide.
6) MDMB-CHMICA: A deceptive contender
The synthetic cannabinoid market is full of deceptive contenders, and MDMB-CHMICA is no exception.
This compound is unique in that it doesn’t immediately reveal its potency and can catch users off guard with its delayed but powerful effects.
As someone who has extensively studied these compounds, I can tell you that MDMB-CHMICA has a slower onset compared to other synthetic cannabinoids.
However, don’t be fooled. Once it kicks in, the effects can be overwhelming due to its high potency.
Just like the other synthetic cannabinoids we’ve discussed, MDMB-CHMICA isn’t without its risks. Users have reported experiencing severe anxiety, rapid heart rate, and even loss of consciousness.
7) AKB48: A hidden threat
AKB48 might seem less intimidating compared to others like 5F-ADB or JWH-018.
But you know what?
Don’t let that fool you.
AKB48 is a potent synthetic cannabinoid that can pack a powerful punch.
With a structure similar to THC, AKB48 binds to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, leading to effects such as relaxation and altered perception.
However, its effects are significantly more potent than THC, which can lead to intense experiences for users.
What if you underestimate its potency?
You could find yourself dealing with severe anxiety, rapid heart rate, and even hallucinations.
As a researcher in the field of synthetic cannabinoids, I’ve personally seen how users underestimate AKB48 due to its less infamous reputation.
However, like all potent synthetic cannabinoids, it’s crucial to approach AKB48 with caution and awareness of its potential effects.
8) JWH-073: The deceptive underdog
Finally, we arrived at JWH-073. This synthetic cannabinoid might not be as infamous as AM-2201 or JWH-018, but it’s important not to underestimate its potency.
JWH-073 is chemically similar to THC, but it binds more strongly to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors.
This results in effects that are more potent than those of natural cannabis.
Despite its less intimidating reputation compared to other synthetic cannabinoids, JWH-073 can still lead to unpleasant side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and, in severe cases, hallucinations.
That’s why you should understand the potency and potential dangers of JWH-073 and in general, treat all synthetic cannabinoids with caution.
What’s the takeaway?
Synthetic cannabinoids, like the ones we’ve discussed, offer a potent alternative to natural cannabis.
But their potency comes with significant risks.
- Understand the potency: It’s crucial to comprehend the strength of these compounds to avoid any unexpected effects.
- Be aware of health risks: Synthetic cannabinoids can lead to severe health complications, including anxiety, rapid heart rate, and even hallucinations.
- Stay informed: Knowing about the specific synthetic cannabinoids on the market can help you make informed decisions about their use.
This exploration into the world of synthetic cannabinoids underscores the importance of a cautious and informed approach. It’s about making choices that are right for you, based on a clear understanding of the potential impacts on your mind and body.
This understanding is a crucial step in your journey toward wellness and personal growth.
