[Pharmacological properties and dependence liabilities of synthetic cannabinoids]

Abstract

Since 2000, types of abused drugs have increased in Japan and abused drugs are diversifying. Chemicals with structures similar to the drugs and stimulants restricted by law are sold as medicines that are not so restricted. Furthermore, drugs that have evaded attention of the law and abuse of these drugs are increasing rapidly. Serious health hazards are occurring from abuse of these chemicals as well as existing abused drugs: they are thus causing a major social problem. Synthetic cannabinoids, one of these illegal drugs, is called "spice" and its abuse is spreading all over the world. So far, Germany and Japan have analyzed the ingredients of the spice series. Synthetic cannabinoids that have actually been detected include CP-47497 and its variations with different numbers of carbon atoms in the side chain, i.e., CP-47497-(C8), JWH-018, etc. Cases of drug dependence and health hazards, such as mental diseases, caused by abuse of spice have been reported, revealing their danger. Numerous synthetic cannabinoid derivatives emerged during the development of medicines, and the methods for synthesizing them and the strength of their binding affinity with the cannabinoid receptor have also been clarified. Under current conditions, when particular synthetic cannabinoid derivatives are restricted, others soon replace them. Although the biochemical characteristics of synthetic cannabinoid derivatives, such as binding affinity with receptors, have been clarified, actions of synthetic cannabinoid derivatives that are taken are still unknown for most derivatives. Some cannabinoid derivatives exhibit tens of times the strength of delta 9-THC, an ingredient of hemp, so it is feared that taking them may cause unexpected serious health hazards.