Innovative Cannabinoids leaflet

Why this leaflet?

This leaflet provides information about HHC and other innovative cannabinoids such as THCP, HHC-O, THCH, etc. You will receive information on what these cannabinoids can mean for your health and how you feel. You will also receive tips on making good choices.

1. What are the negative effects of HHC and other innovative cannabinoids?

Below are negative effects that people can experience from HHC and other cannabinoids. This may not happen to you; it varies from person to person.

• You may experience unexpected feelings such as panic, depression, anxiety, and nausea. This usually goes away on its own.
• You may react more slowly, increasing the risk of accidents.
• You may feel passive or lazy, doing less and finding things less interesting.
• Vaping cannabinoids is bad for your heart and lungs. You may get mucus in your lungs and start coughing. Your heart rate may become faster or irregular. There is a small risk of serious problems such as a heart attack or stroke.
• You may become addicted to cannabinoids, meaning you lose control over their use and it negatively impacts your life.
• You may experience psychotic symptoms, hearing, seeing, or thinking things that others do not. This can make you feel anxious or confused.

2. Some people need to be extra careful with HHC and other innovative cannabinoids. Do not use HHC and other cannabinoids if you...

• ...want to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. These substances are harmful to your (unborn) baby.
• ...are young. Your brain develops until you are 25. You become addicted faster and are more prone to psychotic symptoms.
• ...have had a psychosis before or have schizophrenia. Do not use these substances if family members have psychoses or schizophrenia, as you could develop these issues due to HHC and other cannabinoids.
• ...have depressive or anxiety complaints. These substances can worsen your complaints.
• ...participate in traffic. This is dangerous as HHC and other cannabinoids slow your reactions. Do not use HHC or other cannabinoids before or while driving.
• ...go to work or school. Your memory gets worse, you pay less attention, and you are slower. The risk of accidents is higher.

3. The two most common ways to use HHC and other innovative cannabinoids are:

4. Tips to reduce the risk of negative effects

• The less HHC and other cannabinoids, the lower the risk of negative effects. Choose products with low amounts of these substances.
• If you have little experience, choose products with low amounts of HHC and other cannabinoids and do not use too much. Start slowly and see how it affects you first.
• Do not use too much or too often. Use only on special occasions, not as a habit.
• Do not use HHC and other cannabinoids with alcohol or other drugs.
• Do not use HHC and other cannabinoids if you feel down. This can make you feel worse.
• Do not inhale too deeply or for too long. This is particularly bad for your lungs.

5. Help, advice, and questions

Help and advice are available. Even if you just have some questions.

• You can always ask us for advice through our customer service.
• You can call the Drugs Info Line: 0900 1995 (This costs 10 cents per minute + mobile phone costs). You can also email or chat (see www.drugsinfo.nl).
• You can request a free consultation with an expert near you via drugsinfo.nl/hulp/professionele-hulp.
• You can make an appointment with your doctor if you experience negative effects or want to stop.
• If you are considering stopping or reducing your use, visit drugsinfo.nl/cannabis/hoe-stoppen-met-blowen for more information.

6. About the law

Currently, HHC and other innovative cannabinoids are legal in the Netherlands. However, legislation regarding these substances may change. Stay informed about the latest laws at rijksoverheid.nl.