Synthetic cannabinoids and 'Spice' drug profile
Introduction
Drug profiles scientifically sound descriptions of drugs in the form of ‘drug profiles’. Presented in a standardised way, each profile briefly gives the chemistry, pharmacology, synthesis and precursors of each substance, as well as analysis, physical form (e.g. powder, tablet) and mode of use (e.g. ingested, snorted, injected). Most of the substances covered are controlled internationally by United Nations conventions. Synthetic cannabinoids are functionally similar to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active principle of cannabis. Like THC, they bind to the same cannabinoid receptors in the brain and other organs as the endogenous ligand anandamide. More correctly designated as cannabinoid receptor agonists, they were initially developed over the past 40 years as therapeutic agents, often for the treatment of pain.
Table of contents
- Chemistry
- Physical form
- Pharmacology
- Synthesis and precursors
- Mode of use
- Other names
- Analysis
- Typical purities
- Control status
- Prevalence
- Price
- Medical use
- Bibliography
- Further reading
