HHC Declared Illegal in Ireland Following Health Concerns

The Government of Ireland has officially classified Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, making its sale and possession illegal. This decision, announced by Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and Minister for the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, follows growing concerns about the substance’s health risks, particularly its link to episodes of psychosis and hospitalisation.

HHC, a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, has been increasingly available in various forms, including e-cigarettes, herbal mixtures, oils, edible jellies, cakes, and tinctures. Since its detection in Ireland in 2022, HHC has been associated with serious mental health issues. A study conducted at University Hospital Galway revealed that HHC was the second most frequently used substance among patients presenting with psychotic symptoms over a 21-month period.

Regulatory Measures and Public Health Risks

The classification of HHC under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 categorizes it as having limited therapeutic benefits and a high potential for abuse. This regulatory change means that the import, export, production, possession, sale, and supply of HHC-containing products is now illegal, enhancing the enforcement powers of An Garda Siochana in combating illicit drug trades.

Minister Carroll MacNeill expressed concern over the marketing strategies employed for HHC products, which often target young people. “The sale of HHC as vapes, in attractive packaging, or in edible jelly form, is a marketing ploy aimed at young people, which masks the fact that this drug is harmful for youth mental health and can be addictive,” she stated. The Minister emphasized a commitment to reviewing legal avenues to address emerging threats in the volatile drugs market while prioritizing public health.

Minister Murnane O’Connor echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of combining regulatory measures with education and prevention initiatives. “Controlling HHC and other harmful substances is an important step, that must be complemented by education and prevention programmes so that young people and parents are better informed about the risks associated with drug use,” she noted. The Minister urged individuals seeking help for substance-related issues to contact the HSE Drugs and Alcohol Helpline and encouraged the public to utilize the Health Research Board’s interactive map for local services.

Addressing Addiction and Promoting Health

The recent classification of HHC is part of a broader effort to tackle the rise of new psychoactive substances. This move aligns with recommendations from the EU and the UN Commission for Narcotic Drugs, which have recognized these substances as posing a serious risk to public health. The addition of HHC to the Schedule 1 list is part of a comprehensive strategy to protect the health of the population and ensure that effective treatment services are available.

As Ireland grapples with the implications of HHC and similar substances, the Government is committed to enhancing drug treatment services and expanding educational initiatives aimed at preventing substance abuse. The focus remains on safeguarding youth mental health and promoting a healthier future for all citizens.