Emerging synthetic cannabinoids detected by a drug checking service in Toronto, Canada.

Clin Toxicol (Phila)

Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.

Published: August 2022

AI Article Synopsis

Article Abstract

Background: Toronto's Drug Checking Service (DCS) provides people who use drugs with information on the chemical composition of their substances and conducts real-time monitoring of the unregulated drug supply. Presented are first known data of three newly detected synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) in Toronto, Ontario.

Methods: The present data are from samples analyzed between April and November 2020. Samples were collected at partnering harm reduction agencies in Toronto and analyzed using gas or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. An intake survey queried about the sample characteristics on submission, including expected drug(s).

Results: Samples were analyzed between 1 April and 20 November 2020 ( = 19), which marks the period immediately following imposed COVID-19 border and movement restrictions in Canada. The newly detected, unexpected SCs were ACHMINACA ( = 15), AB-FUBINACA ( = 3), and 4-fluoro-MDMB-BUTINACA ( = 1). Fentanyl was expected in 74% ( = 14). Most SCs were detected in samples containing fentanyl or related analogues ( = 18; 95%), or benzodiazepine-related drugs (i.e., etizolam and flualprazolam) ( = 15; 79%).

Conclusions: This information can inform overdose prevention efforts and drug market monitoring of SCs in Toronto and regions served by the same drug trafficking routes. The detection of SCs during a period marked by COVID-19-related restrictions can contribute to efforts to identify global drug market trends during this time.

Download full-text PDF

Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15563650.2022.2069575DOI Listing

Publication Analysis

Top Keywords

synthetic cannabinoids
8
drug checking
8
checking service
8
newly detected
8
scs toronto
8
samples analyzed
8
analyzed april
8
april november
8
november 2020
8
drug market
8

Similar Publications

This narrative review explores the benefits and risks of cannabinoids in kidney health, particularly in individuals with pre-existing renal conditions. It discusses the roles of cannabinoid receptor ligands (phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, and endocannabinoids) in kidney physiology. The metabolism and excretion of these substances are also highlighted, with partial elimination occurring via the kidneys.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Cannabinoids: Role in Neurological Diseases and Psychiatric Disorders.

Int J Mol Sci

December 2024

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.

An impact of legalization and decriminalization of marijuana is the gradual increase in the use of cannabis for recreational purposes, which poses a potential threat to society and healthcare systems worldwide. However, the discovery of receptor subtypes, endogenous endocannabinoids, and enzymes involved in synthesis and degradation, as well as pharmacological characterization of receptors, has led to exploration of the use of cannabis in multiple peripheral and central pathological conditions. The role of cannabis in the modulation of crucial events involving perturbed physiological functions and disease progression, including apoptosis, inflammation, oxidative stress, perturbed mitochondrial function, and the impaired immune system, indicates medicinal values.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Motor vehicle accidents (MVA) are the leading cause of death in childhood and young adult age. One of the most important factors behind MVA is driving under the influence of alcohol (DUIA) and drugs (DUID). The importance of DUID is rising together with the increasing drug abuse.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

In corticostriatal nerve terminals, glutamate release is stimulated by adenosine via A receptors (ARs) and simultaneously inhibited by endocannabinoids via CB receptors (CBRs). We previously identified presynaptic AR-CBR heterotetrameric complexes in corticostriatal nerve terminals. We now explored the possible functional interaction between ARs and CBRs in purified striatal GABAergic nerve terminals (synaptosomes) and compared these findings with those on the release of glutamate.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Research and Clinical Practice Involving the Use of Products, with Emphasis on Cannabidiol: A Narrative Review.

Pharmaceuticals (Basel)

December 2024

Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, São Paulo, Brazil.

Background: Emerging evidence supports cannabidiol (CBD) as a promising therapeutic compound for various health conditions, despite its approval as a medication (product for medical purposes) remaining restricted to a limited range of clinical indications. Simultaneously, the regulation of cannabis-derived products for medicinal and recreational use has expanded their global market availability to meet local community demands. This scenario presents a complex challenge for clinicians, researchers, and industry, as the global appeal of therapeutic uses of CBD is growing more rapidly than the scientific evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?

Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!